Does Disconnecting Battery in Car Reset Engine Light?
Introduction
The engine light in your car is a warning system that indicates a problem with the vehicle’s engine or emissions system. In some cases, disconnecting the battery in your car may reset the engine light. However, this is not always the case, and there are several factors that can affect whether or not disconnecting the battery will reset the engine light.
How Does Disconnecting the Battery Reset the Engine Light?
When you disconnect the battery in your car, you are interrupting the electrical power to the vehicle’s computer. This can cause the computer to reset, which may clear any stored trouble codes that are causing the engine light to come on. However, it is important to note that not all trouble codes can be reset by disconnecting the battery.
When Will Disconnecting the Battery Not Reset the Engine Light?
There are several reasons why disconnecting the battery may not reset the engine light. These include:
- The trouble code is permanent. Some trouble codes are permanent and cannot be reset by disconnecting the battery. These codes are typically associated with serious problems with the vehicle’s engine or emissions system.
- The battery is not disconnected for long enough. To reset the engine light, the battery must be disconnected for at least 30 minutes. If the battery is not disconnected for long enough, the computer will not have time to reset.
- The battery is reconnected before the engine light has had time to reset. If the battery is reconnected before the engine light has had time to reset, the computer will not be able to clear the trouble codes and the engine light will come back on.
Other Ways to Reset the Engine Light
If disconnecting the battery does not reset the engine light, there are several other ways to do it. These include:
- Using a code reader. A code reader is a device that can be used to read and clear trouble codes from your vehicle’s computer. Code readers are available for purchase at most auto parts stores.
- Taking your car to a mechanic. A mechanic can use a scan tool to read and clear trouble codes from your vehicle’s computer. They can also diagnose the problem that is causing the engine light to come on.
Conclusion
Disconnecting the battery in your car may reset the engine light, but it is not always effective. If disconnecting the battery does not reset the engine light, there are several other ways to do it. It is important to remember that not all trouble codes can be reset by disconnecting the battery.
