How To Reset The Check Engine Light On A Chevy

2020 Chevrolet Traverse Interior Dashboard

Seeing the check engine light on your dashboard almost always means that it’s time to schedule service. However, if you think that your check engine light is coming on by mistake, or if you’ve dealt with the problem and the light won’t go off, we wouldn’t be surprised if that little light started to get on your nerves! We’ve put together a quick guide to help you learn how to reset a check engine light at home in Deptford or Voorhees.

If There Is A Problem, Have It Resolved (And Check Your Gas Cap!)

Many of us have had experiences where the check engine light had come on, but the problem was just an improperly-sealed gas cap. Stop the car, remove the cap, retighten it, and then drive around for a few miles. If your check engine light goes off automatically, it was just picking up the fumes from your gas tank. If your check engine light comes on at the same time that you start to experience another problem–like an overheating vehicle–it’s best to pull over as soon as possible.

If the gas cap isn’t the problem, don’t try to reset your check engine light until you’ve had the problem looked at. Although you may find a Chevrolet diagnostic tool available for sale, most drivers will want to talk to an expert before making any moves on their own. If your check engine light comes on again after you’ve performed a manual reset, you’re definitely due for a trip to our service center.

Reset A Check Engine Light: Two Techniques

So, you’re certain that you need to know how to reset a check engine light at home. On some models, turning the car on and off several times may be enough to do the trick. Start the car, let it run for one second, and then turn it off. Let the engine sit quietly for two to three seconds, and then repeat the whole process two more times.

If this doesn’t work, it’s not necessarily proof that there’s a deeper problem at play. Your next test involves disconnecting the negative battery cable and forcing your electronic systems (and your in-vehicle diagnostics) to perform a hard reset. Here’s what’s involved:

  1. Kill the ignition, and put on safety gear. 
  2. Locate the negative terminal, which usually has a black cap and a negative/minus symbol on top. 
  3. To remove the cable, loosen the nut with a wrench before pulling the negative connector away from the battery. 
  4. Make sure to keep the negative battery cable secure after it’s removed, so it doesn’t touch the other terminal or create sparks. Hold it to the side for a minute or more.
  5. Reconnect the negative cable, being careful as you go. Tighten the top with your wrench, and make sure the cap is back where it should be.

All that’s left is to go on a drive near Cherry Hill! If you don’t see the check engine light as soon as you turn the key, the process was successful. If it turns on again after you start driving, there’s a deeper issue that deserves a closer look.

Visit The Chevrolet Of Turnersville Service Center For Additional Help

If you’re putting off service because you’re trying to cut down on costs, we promise there’s a better way! Check out our service specials to save on diagnostics, inspections, repairs, and so much more.

Now that you’ve seen how to reset a check engine light, you might also want to check out more of our service tips and tricks.