Cooler temperatures can bring a variety of winter car issues, and one of the most common is the check engine light turning on. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, this warning light is your car’s way of signaling that something needs attention.
At Cantrell Service Center, we specialize in car diagnostics and auto repair in North Little Rock, helping drivers in Little Rock, Maumelle, and surrounding areas keep their vehicles running smoothly all season long. If your check engine light has come on this winter, here’s what might be causing it and what you should do next.
Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light Turns On in Cold Weather
1. Weak Battery Performance
Cold weather reduces battery efficiency, making it harder to start your car. A weak or aging battery can trigger the check engine light, especially in freezing temperatures.
- What to do: If your car hesitates to start, have your battery tested at Cantrell Service Center before it fails.
2. Fuel and Air Mixture Issues
Cold air is more dense, which can lead to an improper fuel mixture if your engine isn’t adjusting correctly. This may cause rough idling, poor fuel economy, and an illuminated check engine light.
- How to fix it: Our expert car diagnostic service can pinpoint air-fuel ratio imbalances and our ASE-certified technicians identify the necessary repairs to restore smooth engine performance.
3. Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen (O2) sensor monitors the level of unburned oxygen in your exhaust. In cold weather, moisture buildup can cause sensor malfunctions, reducing fuel efficiency and triggering the check engine light.
- Preventative action: Replacing a faulty O2 sensor can improve fuel economy and prevent engine strain.
4. Loose or Frozen Gas Cap
A loose or brittle gas cap can cause fuel vapor leaks, leading to an illuminated check engine light.
- Easy fix: Tighten or replace the cap. If the light stays on, visit Cantrell Service Center for a quick diagnostic.
5. Thickened Engine Oil
Cold weather causes oil to thicken, making circulation more difficult. This can increase engine friction and trigger warning lights.
- How to prevent this: Use winter-grade oil to maintain proper lubrication. Cantrell Service Center offers winter oil changes to keep your engine running smoothly.
6. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures air entering the engine. Cold temperatures, dirt buildup, and moisture can cause this sensor to fail, leading to rough idling and reduced power.
- Next steps: If your check engine light appears with these symptoms, a car diagnostic service in North Little Rock can determine if the MAF sensor needs cleaning or replacement.
What to Do If Your Check Engine Light Comes On This Winter
If your check engine light turns on, don’t ignore it. While some issues are minor, others can lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. Here’s what you should do:
- Check for Obvious Issues – Tighten the gas cap, look for battery warning signs, or listen for unusual engine noises.
- Don’t Panic, But Don’t Delay – If the light is steady, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. If it’s flashing, pull over safely and call for assistance.
- Visit a Trusted Auto Repair Shop – At Cantrell Service Center, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics in North Little Rock to pinpoint the exact issue and get you back on the road quickly.
How Cantrell Service Center Can Help
At Cantrell Service Center, we take pride in providing honest, high-quality auto repair in North Little Rock. Our experienced mechanics will:
- Perform a full car diagnostic test to determine the cause of your check engine light.
- Conduct a Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) with photos and detailed reports, so you can see exactly what’s going on with your vehicle.
- Explain the issue clearly—no confusing jargon, just honest recommendations.
- Offer reliable repairs, backed by a 2-year/24,000-mile NAPA Peace of Mind Warranty for your confidence.
- Ensure your car is winter-ready with winter car care tips, preventative maintenance, and expert service.
If your check engine light is on in North Little Rock, trust Cantrell Service Center for expert diagnostics and reliable repairs.
Stay Ahead of Winter Car Issues – Schedule Your Inspection Today!
Don’t let winter car issues catch you off guard. Whether it’s a weak battery, a faulty oxygen sensor, or another unexpected problem, Cantrell Service Center is here to help. With over 50 years of experience serving North Little Rock, Little Rock, and Maumelle, AR, we provide expert diagnostics and reliable repairs to keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter long.
Visit us at 7601 Young Road, North Little Rock, AR 72118, or call (501) 758-1188 to schedule your check engine light inspection today. Cantrell Service Center – Your Trusted Local Automotive Center!
