How Long to Drive Car to Reset Check Engine Light
What is the Check Engine Light?
The check engine light is a warning light that illuminates on your dashboard when the car’s computer detects a problem with the engine or emissions system. The light can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Loose gas cap
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Catalytic converter problems
- Engine misfires
- Transmission problems
How to Reset the Check Engine Light
There are two ways to reset the check engine light:
- Drive the car for a few days. If the problem that triggered the light is minor, it may go away on its own after a few days of driving. The car’s computer will automatically reset the light if the problem is resolved.
- Use a code reader. If the problem that triggered the light is more serious, you will need to use a code reader to reset the light. A code reader is a device that plugs into the car’s diagnostic port and reads the trouble codes stored in the car’s computer. Once you have the trouble codes, you can look them up online to find out what the problem is and how to fix it.
How Long to Drive Car to Reset Check Engine Light
If you are going to try to reset the check engine light by driving the car, you will need to drive it for at least 100 miles. This will give the car’s computer enough time to run its diagnostic tests and determine whether the problem has been resolved. If the problem has not been resolved, the light will stay on.
When to See a Mechanic
If you have tried to reset the check engine light by driving the car and the light stays on, you should take the car to a mechanic. The mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Conclusion
The check engine light is an important warning light that should not be ignored. If you see the light come on, you should take the car to a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
