What should you do if your vehicle's engine temperature light comes on?

When the engine temperature light comes on, it is crucial to prioritize safety and the health of your vehicle. Stopping safely and checking the engine is the appropriate response because the light indicates that your engine is overheating, which can lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. By pulling over to a safe location, you can assess the situation without putting yourself or others at risk.

Once stopped, you should first check your coolant level if it's safe to do so, as low coolant can lead to overheating. It's also ideal to allow the engine to cool down before attempting to open the hood, as opening it prematurely could expose you to hot steam or smoke.

Continuing to drive as usual or slowing down without stopping can exacerbate the problem, as the engine could sustain further damage from overheating. While calling for roadside assistance might be necessary in some situations, it’s important to first ensure your vehicle is in a safe position and to check the engine conditions. Thus, stopping safely and checking the engine directly addresses the immediate concern raised by the warning light.