what to do if engine overheat light comes on
What to Do If It's Safe to Stop the Car. 1  1. Pull over. 2  2. Open the hood to allow heat to disperse faster. 3  3. Do not open your radiator pressure cap (the cap on top of the radiator) while the engine is hot.  4. Check the coolant reservoir tank and fill if 1  needed. 5. Look for a leak in the cooling system.