How to Reset a Check Engine Light

We find that Portage drivers have a variety of reactions to their vehicles’ check engine lights. Some ignore the light, while others will rush right to the dealership to get the car inspected. And some try to reset the light themselves.

The service department at DeNooyer Chevrolet wants to help you be safe and to keep your car running in top shape. So let’s talk about how to reset the check engine light, and how to know whether it’s a good idea to handle it yourself.

Try Your Fuel Cap First

Did you know that your check engine light could be caused by something as simple as a loose fuel cap? It’s true. If you check engine light comes on, try taking the fuel cap off and then putting it back on, making sure it’s on nice and tight. If this was the problem, the check engine light should go off after driving for several miles.

How to Reset the Check Engine Light in 5 Steps

We don’t recommend that you reset the check engine light yourself. While the issue causing the light may or may not be severe, there is something causing this issue. You’ll want to make sure that it’s fixed before the light is reset. However, if you are certain the issue is fixed and want to reset the check engine light yourself, follow these steps:

How to Reset the Check Engine Light:

• Put on safety glasses and gloves, then turn off the ignition.
• Find the negative terminal on the battery. On most batteries, you will see a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. The positive terminal usually has a red cap and a positive (+) symbol.
• Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal. Take the negative connector off of the battery. Set it to the side for 30 seconds to one minute.
• Reconnect the negative cable and use the wrench to tighten it again.
• If the light will not go off, the issue is not fixed and you should have a professional check it out.

Resetting the Check Engine Light Yourself is Not a Good Idea

No one wants to be stranded along the road in Mattawan, waiting for a tow truck. Why take the chance on your car breaking down, when you could have addressed the issue before it got that serious? The check engine light serves as an early warning sign that something is wrong, which gives you time to get the problem fixed before it gets worse.

Let The Service Center at DeNooyer Chevrolet of Kalamazoo Help

Don’t let a minor issue become a serious problem. If your check engine light is on, schedule an appointment with us. We’ll quickly troubleshoot the issue, fix it, and have you back on the road in no time. And, if you found this guide on how to reset a check engine light to be helpful, check out our other automotive tips. We’re a short drive away from Galesburg, so drop by or contact us today.