Few things are more frustrating than seeing your check engine light come on—especially in the middle of a hot Texas summer. The light can appear for something as minor as a loose gas cap or as serious as engine trouble. While it may be tempting to ignore it, doing so could leave you stranded on a scorching roadside.
At Skeeter’s Auto Repair in Cypress, TX, we help drivers diagnose and fix check engine issues before they become bigger, more expensive problems. Here’s what you need to know if that dreaded light shows up on your dashboard during the summer months.
Why Does the Check Engine Light Turn On?
Your vehicle’s check engine light (CEL) is part of the onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) system. It monitors sensors and components throughout your car to detect issues affecting emissions, performance, or engine operation.
In the summer, certain conditions can trigger false alarms or expose hidden problems, such as:
- Overheating from extreme heat
- Evaporative emission system failures (often caused by loose or damaged gas caps)
- Low coolant levels
- Faulty sensors affected by temperature fluctuations
What To Do When the Check Engine Light Comes On
1. Check for Immediate Warning Signs
If the check engine light is flashing, that means there’s a serious issue—like a misfire—that could damage your catalytic converter. In this case, pull over as soon as it’s safe and call a professional.
If the light is solid and your vehicle still drives normally, you can continue driving cautiously, but you should schedule a diagnostic as soon as possible.
2. Tighten Your Gas Cap
Believe it or not, a loose or cracked gas cap is one of the most common reasons the CEL comes on. Make sure it’s tight and properly sealed. If the light doesn’t turn off after a few drives, it’s time for a diagnostic check.
3. Check Engine Temperature and Fluid Levels
Texas summers can lead to overheating. If your temperature gauge is running high or you notice steam from under the hood, your vehicle may be low on coolant or have a failing radiator, thermostat, or water pump.
Let the engine cool before opening the hood, and check your coolant level if you feel confident doing so. Otherwise, have it checked by a technician.
4. Visit Skeeter’s Auto Repair for a Diagnostic Scan
At Skeeter’s, we use professional-grade diagnostic tools to read trouble codes from your car’s computer. These codes point us toward the exact issue so we can recommend the right repair—saving you time and money.
Common Reasons for a Check Engine Light in Summer
- Oxygen sensor failure
- Loose or faulty gas cap
- Mass airflow (MAF) sensor issues
- Catalytic converter trouble
- Overheating engine or low coolant
- Bad spark plugs or ignition coils
Frequently Asked Questions About the Check Engine Light
Q: Can I drive with the check engine light on?
A: If the light is steady and the vehicle runs normally, yes—for a short time. But you should get it checked soon to avoid larger issues. If it’s flashing, pull over immediately and call for help.
Q: How do I know if it’s a serious issue?
A: Watch for other symptoms like rough idling, poor fuel economy, smoke, or overheating. If you experience any of these, it’s best to stop driving and call Skeeter’s Auto Repair.
Q: Will the check engine light turn off by itself?
A: Sometimes. If the issue is temporary (like a loose gas cap), the light may turn off after a few drive cycles. If not, it will stay on until the issue is fixed and the system is reset.
Q: How long does a diagnostic take?
A: Most diagnostics take under an hour. At Skeeter’s, we’ll explain the code, what it means, and what needs to be done.
Get Summer-Ready with Expert Help from Skeeter’s Auto Repair
Your check engine light isn’t something to ignore—especially in the heat of a Cypress summer. Whether it’s a quick fix or a sign of something bigger, the expert team at Skeeter’s Auto Repair is here to help. We’ll perform a full diagnostic, explain your options clearly, and get you safely back on the road.
Schedule your check engine light diagnostic today with Skeeter’s Auto Repair in Cypress, TX—and drive confidently no matter how hot it gets.