← Smoke or steam from under the hood

Smoke or steam from under the hood in Indianapolis, IN

White steam or smoke from under the hood almost always means the engine is overheating — usually a coolant leak, failed water pump or stuck thermostat. Driving further can warp the head and destroy the engine.

📍 Serving Indianapolis

Available in Indianapolis and surrounding Indiana areas. Request help and TowGo dispatches the nearest available pro to your exact location.

Get help on the way

Stop driving and get a tow

An overheating engine needs to cool and be repaired at a shop. Continuing to drive risks thousands in engine damage.

⚠️ Safety first

DO NOT keep driving an overheating car. Never open the radiator or coolant cap while hot. If you see open flames (not just steam), get well clear and call 911.

  1. 1Pull over as soon as it's safe and turn the engine OFF.
  2. 2Turning the heater on full blast can pull some heat off the engine while you find a safe spot.
  3. 3Do NOT open the radiator cap while the engine is hot — pressurized coolant can cause serious burns.
  4. 4Pop the hood from inside (don't touch a hot latch) and let it cool, then request a tow to a repair shop.
Diagnose a different problem

You might also need

Strange smell — burning, gas or electricalRadiator leaking or coolant on the groundCar won't start — clicking noiseCar won't start — no noise at all

TowGo · Roadside help in Indianapolis, Indiana