After you have diligently serviced your vehicle with an oil change, you may notice the persistent presence of an illuminated engine light on your dashboard. This can be disconcerting, leaving you questioning the effectiveness of your maintenance efforts. Understandably, you want to resolve this issue promptly, ensuring your car’s optimal performance. Fortunately, resetting the engine light after an oil change is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished in a few straightforward steps.
Before embarking on the engine light reset procedure, it is essential to ensure that the oil change was performed correctly. Verify that the appropriate oil type and quantity were used and that the oil filter was replaced. If any discrepancies are discovered, it is advisable to rectify them before proceeding with the engine light reset to avoid potential complications.
With the oil change confirmed to be executed properly, you can proceed with the engine light reset. This typically involves accessing the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) port using a code reader or scanner. Once connected, the scanner will display any fault codes stored by the engine control module (ECM). Identifying the code associated with the oil change indicator is crucial; once located, you can follow the scanner’s instructions to clear the code and reset the engine light.
Connecting and Establishing Communication
To establish communication between the scanner and the vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU), you will need the following:
- A compatible OBD2 scanner
- An OBD2 data cable
- A vehicle with an OBD2 port
Step 1: Locate the OBD2 Port
The OBD2 port is typically located under the dashboard, on the driver’s side. It is a 16-pin trapezoidal-shaped connector.
Step 2: Connect the Scanner
Plug one end of the OBD2 data cable into the OBD2 port on the vehicle. Connect the other end of the cable to the corresponding port on the scanner.
Step 3: Turn on Ignition
Turn on the vehicle’s ignition, but do not start the engine. The scanner will power up and establish communication with the ECU.
Step 4: Verify Communication
Most scanners have a “Check Communication” or “PCM Status” option. Select this option to verify that the scanner is communicating with the ECU. If communication is not established, ensure that the cables are properly connected and the scanner is compatible with the vehicle.
Once communication is established, you can proceed with the steps to reset the engine light.
Disconnecting the Scanner
After connecting the scanner to your vehicle’s diagnostic port and following the manufacturer’s instructions to reset the engine light, it’s crucial to disconnect the scanner correctly. Here’s a detailed guide on how to disconnect the scanner effectively:
Step 7: Power Down the Scanner
Locate the power button on the scanner and press it to turn off the device. This step ensures that the scanner is fully powered down before disconnecting it from the vehicle.
Step 8: Unplug the Scanner from the Diagnostic Port
The diagnostic port on your vehicle is typically located under the dashboard or near the steering column. To disconnect the scanner, gently grasp the connector where the scanner cable plugs into the diagnostic port. Pull the connector straight out of the port with a firm but gentle motion. Avoid twisting or bending the connector during this process.
Proceed to disconnect the scanner cable from the scanner itself by gripping the connector on the cable side and pulling it out of the corresponding port on the scanner. Ensure that you hold the cable by the connector, not the wires, to prevent damage.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 7 | Power down the scanner |
| 8a | Remove the scanner connector from the diagnostic port |
| 8b | Disconnect the scanner cable from the scanner |
How To Reset Engine Light After Oil Change
After you’ve changed your oil, you may notice that the engine light is still on. This is because the engine light is triggered by a sensor that detects when the oil level is low. When you change your oil, you reset the sensor, but the engine light will remain on until you clear the code.
There are a few different ways to clear the engine light code. One way is to use an OBD-II scanner. An OBD-II scanner is a device that plugs into your car’s diagnostic port and allows you to read and clear trouble codes.
Another way to clear the engine light code is to disconnect the battery. When you disconnect the battery, it resets the computer and clears the trouble codes. However, this method will also erase any other settings that have been stored in the computer, such as your radio presets.
If you don’t have an OBD-II scanner or if you don’t want to disconnect the battery, you can try to clear the engine light code by driving your car for a few days. The engine light will usually turn off after a few days of driving, as the computer relearns the oil level.
People Also Ask How To Reset Engine Light After Oil Change
How do I reset my engine light after an oil change?
There are a few different ways to reset your engine light after an oil change. One way is to use an OBD-II scanner. Another way is to disconnect the battery. However, this method will also erase any other settings that have been stored in the computer, such as your radio presets.
Why is my engine light still on after an oil change?
Your engine light may still be on after an oil change because the engine light is triggered by a sensor that detects when the oil level is low. When you change your oil, you reset the sensor, but the engine light will remain on until you clear the code.
Can I drive with my engine light on?
It is not advisable to drive with your engine light on. The engine light is a warning that there is a problem with your car that needs to be addressed. If you continue to drive with the engine light on, you could damage your car’s engine.
How much does it cost to reset an engine light?
The cost to reset an engine light will vary depending on the method you use. If you use an OBD-II scanner, the cost will be around $20. If you disconnect the battery, there will be no cost. However, if you have to take your car to a mechanic to have the engine light reset, the cost will be around $100.
