What should you do if the temperature light comes on?

If the temperature light comes on, it signals that the engine is overheating and immediate action is required to prevent serious damage. The safest and most prudent course of action is to pull over safely and allow the engine to cool down completely. This step prevents potential engine failure or fire hazards that could arise from ignoring the warning.

By pulling over, you create a safe environment to assess the situation without the risk of being on the road while the vehicle is in distress. Once the engine has cooled, you can inspect the engine coolant levels and check for any leaks, which might indicate the source of the overheating problem.

Continuing to drive, as suggested in one of the other options, could exacerbate the issue, leading to severe mechanical damage. Opening the hood immediately without letting the engine cool may cause burns from steam or hot components, and turning off all electrical systems does not necessarily address the overheating problem directly. Thus, safely pulling over and allowing the engine to cool is the best approach.