2003 Honda S2000 Owner's Manual - Page 225

If Your Engine Overheats The reading on your car's temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. It may go higher if you are driving up a long steep hill on a very hot day. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason. 3. If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading (climbing a long, steep hill on a hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint then continue driving. 4. If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine. 5. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood. Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you. Do not open the hood if steam is coming out. 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Neutral and set the parking brake. Turn off the heating and cooling system and all other accessories. Turn on the hazard warning indicators. 2. If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Driving with the temperature gauge reading at the red mark can cause serious damage to your engine. Your car can overheat for several reasons, such as lack of coolant or a mechanical problem. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the car or engine cover. In either case, you should take immediate action. CONTINUED Taking Care of the Unexpected 229