Introduction
After a car crash, it is important to reset the engine light to clear any error codes that may have been triggered by the impact. This will allow you to start your car and drive it safely. There are two ways to reset the engine light: through the car’s diagnostic port or by disconnecting the battery.
Resetting the Engine Light Through the Diagnostic Port
The diagnostic port is a small, rectangular connector located under the dashboard of your car. It is used to connect a diagnostic scanner to the car’s computer. To reset the engine light through the diagnostic port, you will need a diagnostic scanner.
- Connect the diagnostic scanner to the diagnostic port.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Navigate to the menu on the diagnostic scanner that allows you to reset the engine light.
- Select the option to reset the engine light.
- Turn off the ignition and disconnect the diagnostic scanner.
Resetting the Engine Light by Disconnecting the Battery
If you do not have a diagnostic scanner, you can reset the engine light by disconnecting the battery. This will clear all of the error codes from the car’s computer, including the one that is causing the engine light to come on.
- Open the hood of your car and locate the battery.
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery by loosening the bolt that holds it in place.
- Wait 10 minutes.
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
- Start your car.
Conclusion
Resetting the engine light after a car crash is a simple procedure that can be done in a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can clear any error codes that may have been triggered by the impact and get your car back on the road safely.
