Check engine codes are stored for about 40 drive cycles in a car's computer memory, depending on the manufacturer and model of the car. A drive cycle is a process that includes the engine starting, driving, and turning off the engine.
Clearing the DTCs highlights
- Difficulty level:Low
- Needed scan tools:Professional tool or app
- Additional equipment:No other tools needed
- Timeneeded:10-15 minutes
- Price in a shop:$150 - $250
- DIY repair:Possible
Can the Check Engine code be cleared from the car computer's memory?
If you fixed the problem and the check engine light is still there, you can check once more for issues related to the engine or contact professional mechanics. Even if the problem that caused the check engine light to pop up is already fixed, the check engine code still remains in your car computer's memory. But don't worry, there is still a way to permanently clear this code.
What is an OBD-II Scanner?
The OBD-II Scanner is an onboard diagnostic system device that self-diagnoses the functionality of a vehicle's systems. With this device, you can discover the problematic diagnostic codes that are reported by the vehicle's sensors. You can find the OBD-II port below the dashboard on the driver's side of the vehicle.
Keep in mind that some vehicles produced before the 1990s don't have an OBD-II port at all. The prices of OBD-II scanners are various, starting at just 5 dollars. This scanner can help you discover problems that your vehicle may have and therefore save you a lot of money you would spend in the future on costly repairs.
How to delete Check Engine code permanently? First method
- Plug an OBD-II scanner into the OBD-II port. As already mentioned, you can find this port under the steering column in most of the vehicles. If you are struggling to find the port, look at the manual of your vehicle. The OBD-II port looks kind of similar to the old VGA port.
- Turn the key to the "on'' position. Don't forget to keep the engine off. Also, make sure to turn off all of the vehicle's accessories, such as the radio.
- Press the "read" button on the OBD scanner.It will access the check engine light code. This code is written as a series of letters and numbers. Some OBD scanners can explain the codes, which can help you a lot if you're not professional. If you don't understand the meaning of the codes, you can find the definition in the car owner's manual, or on the internet.
- Press the "erase" button on the OBD scanner.In some cases, the "erase" button can be marked as the "clear" button. This will turn off the check engine light. After pressing this button, you should wait until the "no codes" message pops up.
- Turn off the key.
How to delete Check Engine code permanently? Second method
As we discussed earlier, the check engine light can still remain even if the problem is fixed. But why so? And how to fix this problem? We have one impressively easy method for you so you can fix this problem, without needing to buy anything at all. If you have an older car, this method can help you, since this method works best on older cars.
- Take your car for a ride.Sounds good, right? You should drive your car as usual for around 3 days. Your car's computer works in cycles, so it may not have time to reread the computer codes. Mechanics usually resets the computer codes, but sometimes they just forget to do so.
- Turn the key to the "on" position. You should turn the key to the "on" position 3-5 times until the whole dashboard lights up. After this, you should remove the key, wait, and then turn the engine on. This method works best on newer cars. After this process, your Check Engine light should disappear.
Conclusion
We hope that this article helped you find out more about Check Engine code, how it is stored, and how to permanently delete it from your car's computer memory.
Keep in mind that erasing this code from your car's computer memory doesn't fix the problem that your vehicle may have. If the Check Engine light comes on even after this, you should visit a mechanic who will professionally diagnose your car and repair all of the problems your car may have.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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