Learn How to Reset a Check Engine Light

Every driver has experienced it: an irksome check engine light that won’t go out — even when you’ve determined that there’s nothing wrong with your engine! In the guide below, the Hillside Chevrolet Buick GMC service centre shows you how to find the cause of a check engine light and three DIY methods for how to reset a check engine light at home in Stratford. A check engine light reset is quick and easy with Hillside Chevrolet Buick GMC.

Don’t Wait to Reset the Check Engine Light

If your check engine light illuminates while you’re on the road in Cornwall, it’s important to get the necessary repairs or reset the check engine light ASAP. Even if you know for sure that there’s nothing wrong with your car’s engine, letting the check engine light stay on for months can cause you to miss the warning if an issue does arise. Any automotive problem is best dealt with early, before it snowballs into something more costly — and potentially dangerous. You can use our online service scheduler to set up an appointment at our service centre near PEI! Learn how to reset a check engine light below.

How to Reset a Check Engine Light

Use a Code Scanner

One way to perform a check engine light reset is to purchase or borrow an OBD-II scanner. Plug the scanner into the port under the steering column. Connect the cord on the scanner to this port. Turn your key to the “ON” position, but do not start the vehicle. When the dashboard lights illuminate, turn all vehicle accessories off. Hit the “READ” button on the scanner to reveal the check engine light code.

Record the codes listed so you know what issues need to be addressed. Hit the “ERASE/CLEAR” button on the scanner and turn your key to the “OFF” position. When you see a “NO CODES” message, you can shut off the vehicle. This should be all you need to do for a check engine light reset. Be sure to have any vehicle issues addressed as soon as possible.

Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable

If you’ve checked your vehicle but haven’t found any reason that the check engine light should be on, you can reset the check engine light by disconnecting the negative battery cable. That may sound daunting, but the process is pretty simple — even if you’re inexperienced with auto maintenance. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Turn off the ignition.
2. Put on safety glasses and gloves.
3. Find the negative terminal. In most vehicles, it will have a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. (As opposed to the positive terminal, which has a red cap and a positive (+) symbol.)
4. Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal, and pull the negative connector from the battery. Set it aside for 30 to 60 seconds.
5. Reconnect the negative cable and tighten it securely with your wrench.

This trick will successfully reset the check engine light in most circumstances, but you may need to try a different method if it doesn’t. Keep in mind that disconnecting the battery may also reset electronics like the MyCadillac and Chevy MyLink infotainment systems.

Check Your Gas Cap

Occasionally, a loose gas cap can cause fumes to release, triggering the check engine light. To see if this is the issue, park your vehicle and remove the gas cap. Then, carefully put it back on. If the check engine light is still on even after you’ve properly replaced the gas gap, you’ll need to reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery.

Schedule Certified GM Service in Charlottetown

Now that you know how to reset a check engine light with confidence, why not learn a few more DIY car-care tricks? Reach out to learn how to unlock a steering wheel, how to program a Chevy key fob, and more from the certified GM technicians at Hillside Chevrolet Buick GMC!

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