Learn How to Reset a Check Engine Light in San Diego, CA

If you’ve recently performed service at home or you think your check engine light may have come on by mistake, learning how to reset a check engine light by hand can help you eliminate that pesky warning and get back to your normal routine. If you don’t have an OBD2 scanner on hand, you can still reset the check engine light by disconnecting the negative battery cable. We’ll cover both methods below.

If There Is a Problem, Have It Resolved at Kearny Mesa Acura

First things first: you shouldn’t try to reset the check engine light unless you know that it’s appearing by mistake. Check the gas cap before you do anything else. A loose cap allows fumes to escape, and these fumes tell your vehicle’s diagnostic systems that there’s a problem that needs addressing. If that doesn’t solve the problem on its own, it’s likely that there’s a deeper problem. If there’s an underlying issue that needs to be resolved, the warning will come back on almost immediately after you reset the check engine light. In those cases, you’ll want to schedule Acura service with Kearny Mesa Acura, located in San Diego.

How to Reset a Check Engine Light with an OBD2 Scanner

Most modern vehicles are designed to interact with handheld scanners that can identify issues and reset diagnostic systems. You can pick one up one of these scanners at our parts department, and use it to reset the check engine light:

1. Plug the scanner into your vehicle using the port below the driver’s side dashboard.
2. Turn the key to the on position, but don’t start the car. You only need the electrical systems to turn on.
3. Give the scanner a few moments; it will soon display a code, or a list of codes.
4. Look up the codes or call us at (855) 518-5669 for more information on what you’re seeing.
5. If you see a problem that needs fixing, schedule service or order the parts you need from our dealership.
6. If you’ve already solved the underlying issue, simply press and hold ERASE while the relevant code is selected.

How to Reset a Check Engine Light with the Negative Battery Cable

Resetting a check engine light in this way is somewhat trickier, since you will technically be resetting all electrical systems in your vehicle. You might need to enter your Acura Radio Code or restore your infotainment settings after the job is done.  In any event, disconnecting the negative battery cable is the easiest way to reset a check engine light without a scanner. Here’s how it works:

1. Put on electricity-safe gloves and safety glasses.
2. After giving your vehicle time to cool, open the hood and locate the battery.
3. Remove any terminal covers and carefully loosen the negative connector. Don’t let the wrench touch both terminals at the same time.
4. When you can, pull the negative cable away from the battery. Hold it to the side for roughly 30 to 60 seconds, so any remaining power can expire.
5. Reconnect the cable and tighten everything back up!

These two processes can always reset your check engine light, but once again: if you haven’t really resolved the underlying issue, your diagnostic systems will cause the light to come on as soon as you head back out on the roads of National City and San Diego.

Our Service Team Would Be Glad to Assist You!

We know that few things are more frustrating than a check engine light that won’t turn off. Don’t let it get you down. Schedule service at Kearny Mesa Acura, near Carlsbad, and let us solve your problems today! We offer Synchrony Car Care™, as well as a wide range of rotating service specials, so you never have to put off necessary work.

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