2001 Malibu Engine Light

I just have a very simple question. Whenever the temperature drops too low, my thermostat stops working and my check engine light comes on. When it warms back up, the thermostat starts working again, and the check engine light goes out. My question is, how long does it take for the check engine light code to clear out of the computer? Thanks.

Sounds like your thermostat is defective and needs replacement .

I thank you for the response, I pretty much figured that my thermostat needed to be replaced, but that's not what I asked.

What I asked was, how long does it take for the code of the check engine light to clear out of the computer once the light has turned off?

Have you ever had the car scanned to see the cause of the " check engine " light ? It's difficult to answer your question without more info about what is causing the trouble code to show up . The below normal engine temperature can be caused by a defective ( stuck in the open position ) thermostat. It will eventually heat up somewhat but likely would never get up to the desired operating temperature . You really need to see what the trouble code represents so you'll have a better knowledge of what is going on . Take it and have it scanned and see what the code tells you .Hopefully this helps although I'm not sure I have answered your question in the manner you desired ?