Can a Car Reset Engine Light?

The engine light, also known as the check engine light, is a warning light that illuminates on the dashboard of a car to indicate that a problem has been detected with the engine or emissions control system. The engine light can be reset, but it is important to note that resetting the light does not fix the underlying problem.

How to Reset the Engine Light

There are two ways to reset the engine light: using a scan tool or by disconnecting the battery.

Using a Scan Tool

1. Connect the scan tool to the diagnostic port on the car.
2. Turn on the ignition.
3. Navigate to the engine control module (ECM) menu.
4. Select the “Reset Engine Light” option.
5. Confirm that you want to reset the light.
6. Turn off the ignition.
7. Disconnect the scan tool.

Disconnecting the Battery

1. Park the car in a safe location.
2. Turn off the ignition.
3. Open the hood.
4. Locate the negative battery terminal (usually black).
5. Loosen the nut on the negative battery terminal using a wrench.
6. Remove the negative battery cable from the terminal.
7. Wait 10 minutes.
8. Reattach the negative battery cable to the terminal.
9. Tighten the nut on the negative battery terminal.
10. Close the hood.
11. Start the car.

Important Notes

• Resetting the engine light does not fix the underlying problem.
• If the engine light comes back on after it has been reset, it is important to have the car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic.
• Some cars may require a scan tool to reset the engine light.
• Disconnecting the battery may reset other settings in the car, such as the clock and radio presets.

Conclusion

The engine light is a warning light that should not be ignored. If the engine light comes on, it is important to have the car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Resetting the engine light may temporarily clear the light, but it does not fix the underlying problem.