Learn How to Reset a Check Engine Light
So, you’re cruising across town in Kittanning or Greensburg when suddenly your check engine light pops on. Now what? The check engine light could mean that there’s a problem with the engine that you should address as soon as possible, but on the other hand, it could be something as simple as the gas cap not being secured. In the latter case, after you’ve correctly seated the gas cap, you’ll need to reset the check engine system in order for the light to turn off. In this guide from the service team at Delaney Honda we walk you through the steps for resetting your check engine light.
If There Is a Problem, Take Care of It ASAP
If you believe there’s nothing actually wrong with your vehicle, or if you’ve decided not to fix the problem right away, then you’ll need to know how to reset the check engine light. While this is ultimately your decision, we recommend for your own safety that you take care of the issue as soon as it arises. What seems to be a minor problem now can develop into a much bigger and more costly issue over time. It’s a good idea to schedule service with Delaney Honda online to have our certified technicians identify the problem and get you safely back on Johnstown-area roads.
Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable
If you don’t find an issue that needs to be addressed, you can manually reset your check engine light. While that may seem daunting at first, it is actually very simple. Just follow these steps:
- Turn off the ignition and put on safety glasses and gloves.
- Locate the negative terminal on your car battery. It will most often have a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. The positive cap is red and will have a positive (+) symbol.
- Loosen the nut on the negative terminal with a wrench and pull the negative connector from the battery. Keep it to the side for 30 – 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the negative cable and tighten it with your wrench.
This should reset the check engine light. If it doesn’t, bring your vehicle to our Service Center, and have our service techs reset it for you. Please note that disconnecting your battery may also require you to reset your Honda infotainment system.
Check Your Gas Cap
One of the most common reasons that the check engine light turns on is a loose or cracked gas cap. All you’ll need to do is park somewhere safe, remove your gas cap, and reseal it, making sure that it is properly secured. If the engine light doesn’t turn off right away after you perform this check, follow the steps above to disconnect the battery, and you should be good to go!
Visit the Delaney Honda Service Center for Additional Help
Even seasoned DIYers will find that it can be tricky to diagnose what’s causing the activation of a check engine light. If you’re unsure about how to reset the light yourself or would like the issue professionally addressed, bring your vehicle in to our Service Center in Indiana. We are always happy to help keep your Honda running safely in top condition, and we can also provide advice on everything from how to check your transmission fluid and how often to get an oil change to how to prepare your car for winter driving. Make sure to check out our current service specials and coupons to save on your next Honda service, and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Service Center.