How to Respond to Overheating Electric/Hybrid Cars in Malaysia

Modern EVs and plug‑in hybrids protect themselves by limiting power, switching off A/C, or triggering prompts like “High temperature/Reduce speed/Stop safely” when drive units, batteries, or gearboxes get too hot in Malaysia’s heat and traffic. Follow on‑screen guidance: reduce speed, pull over safely, and let systems cool at idle if recommended, or switch off if instructed by the vehicle.

• Reduce speed and shed load: ease off acceleration and avoid climbs; many cars will limit power automatically when hot.
• Find a safe place to stop: pull into a lay‑by or rest area; on highways, use the emergency lane only if necessary and set hazards.
• Follow the car’s exact prompt: if it says idle to cool, leave it idling for a few minutes; if it says stop/power down, do so and wait.
• Let A/C rest if it was disabled: vehicles may switch off A/C temporarily to help cooling—this is normal during thermal protection.
• If on PLUS expressways: use the 24/7 hotline or SOS phones every 2km to request patrol support while arranging roadside help.
• Do not open high‑voltage components: leave battery, inverters, and orange cables untouched; these require qualified EV technicians.

• High ambient heat and long, heavy‑load drives raise battery/drive‑unit temperatures—especially in stop‑start traffic or steep terrain.
• Cooling system issues (low coolant, blocked radiators, failed pumps/fans) reduce thermal control efficiency.
• Aggressive driving, towing, or software glitches can stress systems until protections activate.
• For PHEVs/hybrids, engine or gearbox heat can also trigger warnings and limp modes.

• Cool‑down cycle: follow the car’s prompt—idle gently for several minutes or power off completely until warnings clear.
• Reduce cabin load: if A/C resumes, use fresh air briefly, then recirculation once moving to lighten thermal demand.
• Plan the next leg: avoid steep climbs or peak heat until a full check; resume gently if all warnings clear and performance feels normal.
• If warnings persist or power is limited: arrange professional assistance to prevent damage or shutdown.

Highway Backup While You Wait

PLUS highways operate a 24/7 hotline and SOS phones at 2km intervals; patrols can help manage traffic safety and coordinate towing if needed. Save the hotline and use SOS phones if mobile coverage is weak along the route.

• On‑site triage: verify active warnings, cooling fan operation, visible coolant level where accessible, and safe recovery options per the vehicle’s guidance.
• Battery and drive system safety first: no intrusive work on high‑voltage components roadside; prioritize cooling and safe transport if thermal faults remain.
• Gentle restart strategy: assist with manufacturer‑advised cool‑down/idle procedures and confirm if protections clear before continuing.
• Safe towing and workshop coordination: if warnings persist, arrange controlled towing to vetted EV/hybrid partners for diagnostics and repair.
• Highway coordination: guide drivers on PLUS hotline/SOS usage and scene safety until help arrives.

Smart Prevention for Malaysian Heat

• Travel timing and route: avoid peak heat or prolonged stop‑start where possible; plan shaded breaks to keep systems comfortable.
• Keep software and maintenance current: cooling system checks, leak inspections, and firmware updates help prevent thermal issues.
• Use preconditioning and efficient modes: pre‑cool cabins and select eco modes to reduce thermal load and extend range.
• Watch for early signs: A/C cutting out, power limiting, or “Reduce speed/High temperature” prompts are cues to ease off and cool down promptly.

What to Share When Requesting Help

• Exact location and direction (highway name, nearest KM marker/landmark); mention if on PLUS to leverage hotline/SOS support.
• Warning text/icons shown (e.g., High temperature, Transmission hot, Reduced power) and whether A/C or power cut out.
• Recent context (steep climbs, heavy traffic, high ambient heat, towing) and whether the warning clears after idle cool‑down.

Frequently Asked Questions