Learning How to Reset a Check Engine Light

check engine light on

Everyone has been there; driving through El Dorado, and then the check engine light turns on. While it’s something that should never be ignored, oftentimes there isn’t actually a problem. But that won’t make the light go away, so it remains stuck on. Our expert service center technicians hear you and have provided you with a quick guide on how to reset your check engine light. 

First, Make Sure There Isn’t a Serious Problem

If you’re wondering how to reset your check engine light, chances are either nothing is wrong with your vehicle, or you’ve decided not to fix it immediately. While it is your decision, we do urge Derby drivers to take care of any issues as soon as they arise, to prevent dangerous situations or even harm to you or your drivers. A small fix now may become a huge issue later. Schedule service with us online, so that we can take a look at your vehicle for you to diagnose the issue. 

Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable

If there isn’t a problem that needs to be handled, then manually resetting the check engine light is your next step. To those who aren’t familiar with what is hidden under the hood of your car, it’s actually quite easy to handle. 

 

  1. Turn off the ignition and put on safety glasses and gloves
  2. Locate the negative terminal on your battery. Usually, it has a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. The positive cap is red and will have a positive (+) symbol.
  3. Loosen the nut on the negative terminal with a wrench, then pull the negative connector from the battery. Keep it to the side for 30 – 60 seconds.
  4. Reconnect the negative cable and tighten it back up with your wrench.
  5. Note: this may also reset your vehicle’s infotainment system such as Uconnect

 

This should manually reset your check engine light, though if it doesn’t work there are other tricks.

Check Your Gas Cap

If the check engine light is still on, then you might have a loose or cracked gas cap which is letting fumes escape. After you make sure that your gas cap is secured properly, turn the engine back on and if the engine light doesn’t turn off right away, then try to disconnect the battery again to force a reset. 

Don’t Hesitate To Contact Don Hattan Dealerships

If something goes horribly wrong, or you just end up feeling confused and lost about the process, feel free to contact us to speak to our service department near Newton. We are eager to help, as well as teach you something new. If it’s time for a new vehicle upgrade, then you can take advantage of our new vehicle specials so that you can get a great deal. 

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