Can you safely remove the radiator cap if the engine is not overheated?

The correct choice emphasizes the dangers associated with removing the radiator cap, regardless of whether the engine appears overheated or not. The cooling system of a vehicle operates under pressure, and even if the engine seems to be at a normal operating temperature, there can still be significant pressure built up within the cooling system. Removing the cap could lead to hot coolant spraying out, which can cause severe burns or other injuries.

The principle behind cautioning against opening the radiator cap is the potential for sudden pressure release, which can occur even after the engine has been turned off for a short period. Therefore, to ensure safety and prevent any possibility of injury from hot coolant or steam, it is best to wait until the engine is completely cool before attempting to remove the radiator cap.

Additionally, other options may offer situations under which one might think it is safe to remove the cap, such as on a cold day or waiting a while, but these do not mitigate the inherent risks associated with doing so when the engine has not completely cooled down. The safest practice is to avoid opening the radiator cap until the engine has cooled completely to avoid any accidents or injuries related to the engine’s cooling system.