How to Reset a Check Engine Light

Have you been driving in Dalton, and suddenly your check engine light pops up? Sometimes, you’ll find that there actually isn’t anything wrong with your engine, but the light just won’t turn off. Our service team at Welborn Chevrolet of Rome is here for you with the three ways you can successfully reset a check engine light. 

Reset Check Engine Light: Have the Issue Fixed

So you are at the point where you are learning how to reset a check engine light: you’ve either had it checked and there’s nothing wrong, or you’re waiting to fix it. While this is the driver’s decision, it’s important to take care of an issue as soon as possible, to keep you safe. More often than not, ignoring a problem will cause bigger issues in the future. You can schedule a service appointment online to have the experienced technicians at Welborn Chevrolet of Rome get you back on Rockmart roads.

How to Reset Check Engine Light: Check Your Gas Cap

The funny thing is you may just have a loose gas cap, which causes fumes to release. Your engine light may turn on because of this. So when you have parked, remove your gas cap and then put it back on, tightening it to the appropriate point. If it doesn’t turn off, follow the steps below to disconnect the battery, and you should be good to go!

Reset Check Engine Light: Negative Battery Cable

So, you’ve discovered there isn’t anything wrong with the actual vehicle, the next step is to manually reset your check engine light. It’s not as daunting as drivers may think. The next step for a Adairsville driver is to get under the hood. Follow these directions to reset check engine light: 

1. Turn off the ignition and put on safety glasses and gloves
2. Locate the negative terminal. Usually, it has a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. For reference, 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.

This should fix the light, but if you still have issues, there’s another opportunity you can try. This process may, however, cause your infotainment system to reset as well. 

Schedule a Service Appointment with Welborn Chevrolet of Rome

Cars can be tricky, even for seasoned DIY mechanics! If you need a professional to take a look, you can always schedule an appointment with our service experts at our service center near Adairsville. Or if you have questions as you try to handle the process, contact us anytime. Or do you want a newer vehicle with fewer problems? Check out our new vehicle specials!