2009 Chevrolet Equinox Owner's Manual - Page 317
2009 Chevrolet Equinox Manual
Page 317 highlights
If Steam Is Coming From The Engine Compartment If No Steam Is Coming From The Engine Compartment If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle: { CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood. If you keep driving when the vehicles engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop the engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool. See Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode on page 5-30 for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency. Climbs a long hill on a hot day. Stops after high-speed driving. Idles for long periods in traffic. Tows a trailer. If the overheat warning is displayed with no sign of steam: 1. Turn the air conditioner off. 2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary. 3. If in a traffic jam, try to minimize engine load. Shift to N (Neutral); otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving. 5-29