Learn How to Reset a Check Engine Light

If There Is a Problem, Have It Resolved

The first thing you should do if you find that your check engine light is on is to get your engine inspected by a professional. It might be just a minor issue that needs fixing, but even these small problems can grow dramatically if left unattended. It’s your decision to have your engine looked at or not, but we urge you to at least have an expert take a look to make sure nothing serious is wrong. You can schedule a service appointment right from our website if you see your check engine light come on, and we’ll have you safely back on the Noblesville roads in no time!

Reset a Check Engine Light: Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable

If there’s nothing noticeably wrong with your engine, or if you’ve fixed the problem, you’ll want to manually reset your check engine light. This may sound intimidating, but the process is quite straightforward. Here’s how to reset a check engine light in fifteen minutes or less:

1. Make sure the ignition is off, and put on safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself.
2. Locate the negative terminal, with a black cap and a negative (-) symbol. The positive cap will be red with 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 use a wrench to tighten it back up.

Keep in mind that sometimes disconnecting the battery will also reset your Chevy vehicle’s infotainment system. Disconnecting the battery usually solves the engine light problem, but if the light is still on, there’s one more method you can try – we’ve got the details below.

Check Your Gas Cap

An illuminated check engine light could be the result of a loose or cracked gas cap. If this is the case, you’ll just have to put the gas cap back on and you should be fine. Safely park your Chevy, turn off the ignition, remove the gas cap, and then replace it. The check engine light should turn off right away, but if it doesn’t, take the steps above to disconnect and reconnect your negative battery cable before trying again.

Visit the Penske Chevrolet Service Center for Additional Help

Even experienced DIYers can run into trouble when it comes to resetting the check engine light. If you’d prefer for an expert to take a look at your Chevy, feel free to bring your car by our service center near Westfield for an inspection. You can also contact our office anytime with questions about the above processes, and we’ll walk you through whatever you need to know. Scheduling service? Take advantage of our service specials today.

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