The check engine light comes on when there is a fault with the engine or emission control system. You will need to scan the code generated by the car's computer and read it so that you can determine the cause. You can reset the lamp once all problems are resolved. This article will tell you how to reset a vehicle's check engine light
Step
Method 1 of 2: Using a Code Scanner
Step 1. Connect the scanner to the built-in diagnostic connector (on-board diagnostic connector or OBD-II) under the steering column
Turn the ignition button to "On." Turn off all accessories.
Step 2. Press the " Read " button on the scanner to view the machine error code
Write down one or more codes in the order they were received for future reference, and correct them if needed.
Step 3. Press the "Erase" button on the scanner to clear the error code
Clearing any code that appears will turn off the check engine light. Some scanners have a capability such as a 'freeze frame' which records some sensor readings when a code is set and deleting the code will also delete this file.
Some scanners may have automatic options and a "Yes" or "Clear" button instead of an "Erase" button
Method 2 of 2: Deleting Code (Old Way)
Step 1. Disconnect the car battery by disconnecting the positive and negative wires
Use a wrench to remove the cable if needed.
Step 2. Press and hold the horn for 30 seconds to drain the remaining electricity from the capacitor
Step 3. Wait for 15 minutes and reconnect the battery
The code should have been erased so the engine light was off. This process cannot be applied to all vehicle computers. If the battery is disconnected and the light comes back on immediately, this could indicate an active problem and should be investigated further so that it can be fixed.
Warning
- Clearing the code by disconnecting the vehicle battery can also clear memory for the radio and other components on the dashboard. We recommend that this method be used only as a last resort.
- The in-vehicle emission monitor will be registered as reset so you will not pass the emission test if you bring a car with a reset code. Drive the car for a minimum of 320 km before bringing it in for an emission test.
- Consult a mechanic or repair shop staff if the code keeps reappearing or if you can't find any information about the code or how to fix it. The mechanic should be able to check your car and reset the code.
- A trusted repair shop will not reset the check engine light if the problem is not resolved. Such conduct is illegal, and is only accepted if a complete diagnostic process has been undertaken to determine the problem.
- An illuminated check engine light indicates there is a problem with the car. Resetting the lamp without identifying the problem can be dangerous.
