If your engine temperature gauge enters the red while driving in the Nevada desert, you should:
Continue to the next gas station.
Continuing risks severe engine damage.
Safely pull off the road, turn off the AC, turn ON the heater (to vent engine heat), and stop if the gauge doesn't drop.
Immediately open the radiator cap.
Opening a hot radiator cap causes severe burns from steam.
Spray water on the engine.
Cold water on a hot engine can crack the block.
When overheating, first pull off the road safely. Turn off the AC and crank the heater to max (counterintuitively, this helps pull heat away from the engine). If the temperature doesn't drop, stop and turn off the engine. NEVER open the radiator cap while hot — wait 30+ minutes. Carry extra water in the desert (for you AND the vehicle).
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