How to Reset Your Check Engine Light

Learning how to reset your check engine light is fairly straightforward. Most drivers can easily reset a check engine light by removing the negative battery cable or using a OBD II scanner tool. But before you get to work, it’s important to look the root cause of the issue in the first place. If you don’t properly diagnose and resolve the problem, you’re likely to see that check engine light again – sooner rather than later! Let’s take a closer look at the check engine light, and see which Honda services you might need to get your car back on the Seattle roads.

Do You Need to Reset Your Check Engine Light?

Most Redmond and Woodinville drivers will simply schedule a Honda service appointment when they see a check engine light. That’s because this light indicates any number of problems, ranging from a loose fuel cap to a damaged catalytic converter. Since it’s difficult to predict which issue caused your check engine light to illuminate, we recommend visiting a certified technician to accurately diagnose and fix the issue.

Reset Your Check Engine Light with a Scanner

If you want a quick diagnosis, you can use an OBD II diagnostic scanner. This tool will retrieve vital diagnostic information from your car’s computer in a matter of seconds. Once you look up that information, you can determine what type of Honda service is needed. You can purchase your own scanner or just visit our service center to let the technicians take care of it.

Reset Your Check Engine Light Manually

If you need to reset your check engine light before your Honda service, you can do it with just a few tools on hand. Here are the steps to follow:

• Turn off the engine and pop the hood. 
• Take off any jewelry and put on safety gear, including gloves and glasses.
• Look for the negative terminal on your car battery. It will be black with a negative (-) sign.
• Loosen the terminal and disconnect the negative cable for 30 to 60 seconds. Don’t let the cable touch anything else to avoid the risk of sparks.
• Ask a friend to sound the horn to drain extra power from the battery.
• Reconnect the negative cable and make sure the battery is secure.

Schedule Your Honda Service at Honda of Kirkland

Are you having problem with your car? Schedule your Honda service with us at Honda of Kirkland! We’re happy to diagnose and resolve any automotive issue, so feel free to reach out with your questions at any time. Contact us online or stop by the dealership in Kirkland. You can even get auto repair from home with our service valet!