The check engine light Check Engine comes on when your car’s computer detects a problem with the powertrain. It may indicate a major or minor complication, but ignoring it will definitely make the problem worse, leading to significant damage and expensive repairs. You can avoid all the trouble if you know the reasons for the signal. However, sometimes it does not go off despite the problem being solved. In this case, it will not hurt you to know how to reset the “check”.
Most drivers get annoyed if the “check engine” still does not go off even though the car’s malfunction has been fixed. In this case, your car’s computer is faulty and a little intervention is required to solve this problem.
1. Using a scanner
Using a diagnostic tool is the easiest way to reset the check engine light. Here are 5 simple steps:
- Connect the scan tool to the on-board diagnostic connector under the steering column. A laptop or tablet with the appropriate software is installed in the holder;
- Then turn on the ignition of the car and accordingly turn on all gadgets;
- On the mobile device, in the appropriate section, press the “READ” button, view the engine error codes. Use a pen to write down the codes in the order in which they were received. This will be necessary for subsequent repairs.
- Delete the error code. Press the “ERASE” button on the scanner. The Check Engine light will turn off when all the trouble codes are cleared. Some scan tools have many options such as freeze frame which captures the sensor readings. When you clear the codes, these readings will also be cleared. Note: Some scan tools may have an automatic clear code option and a CLEAR or YES button instead of an ERASE button.
- Remember to turn on the ignition before clearing the codes.
2. Battery Disconnection Method
Disconnecting the battery is the old way to reset the check engine light. Here are three steps to reset the check engine light with this method:
Step 1: Disconnect the battery cables. At this point, you should use a wrench to unscrew the positive and negative cables.
Step 2: Discharge the remaining electricity. The next thing you should do is press and hold the car horn for about 30 seconds. This action will help discharge the car battery.
Step 3: Wait and reconnect the battery. After disconnecting the battery cables and discharging the remaining electricity, all you have to do is wait about 15 minutes and then reconnect the battery. The error codes will be cleared. (Note: This method may not work on some cars). In case the “check” lights up again after this procedure, it may mean that the problem is still much more serious.
3. Turning the ignition on and off
Similar to the second method, but without disconnecting the battery. You just need to turn the car’s ignition on and off three times in a row, with a one-second gap between each step. After you’re done, start the car and check to see if the light has reset.
4. Let the check engine light go out on its own
Wait for the check engine light to go out on its own. This is the easiest method because you don’t have to do much of anything. The computer system in most cars will automatically recheck for problems that might trigger the error light. If it’s a minor issue, it will automatically fix itself and the check engine light will go out. However, if the “check” light is still on after three days, you need to apply the methods mentioned above to reset it.
If this continues to happen despite the following reset procedures, you should take your car to the nearest auto repair shop and have it diagnosed by a professional mechanic. Professional diagnostics use more sophisticated tools and can pinpoint the exact problem.
REMEMBER: You can always contact our auto repair shop, where your car will be gladly provided with professional technical assistance. You can also sign up for a scheduled technical inspection with us! Please familiarize yourself with our services for car repair and diagnostics.
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VEBER-AUTO car service
194044, St. Petersburg
Neyshlotskiy pereulok, house 5, building 3
District: Vyborgsky
Metro: Vyborgskaya – 800 m.
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Seven days a week, from 9:00 to 21:00.
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sto@veberauto.ru
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8 (812) 321-00-00
