How to Clear GMC Vehicle Fault Codes
by Dwight MaloneGMC vehicles are produced by General Motors. GMC specializes in sport utility vehicles, trucks and vans. If your GMC vehicle sets off a fault code, also known as a check-engine code, resetting the code after the repair has been made is a simple process. Once you locate the battery, the method for clearing the code is the same, regardless of the year, make or model of GMC vehicle. Fault codes can be set off in a vehicle for a variety of reasons, ranging from a loose gas cap to a major mechanical problem.
Clearing Engine Fault Codes
Step 1
Turn off the vehicle.
Step 2
Pop the hood by pulling on the hood release under the dashboard.
Step 3
Lift the hood-release lever, under the hood in the front of the grill, and open the hood.
Step 4
Locate the battery. The location depends on the make, model and year, but it will be in one of the four corners of the engine bay.
Step 5
Put the adjustable wrench on the bolt that holds the negative battery clamp on the negative battery terminal. Loosen the bolt, and remove the clamp.
Step 6
Hold the negative battery clamp and wait for one minute. This waiting period will clear the computer's codes.
Step 7
Place the clamp back on the negative terminal, and tighten it with the wrench. The clamp should have a snug fit and should not wiggle from side to side.
Step 8
Start the vehicle and verify that the check-engine light no longer is on.
References
Tips
- The location of the hood release under the dashboard and the hood release under the hood varies by GMC make and model. Consult your owner's manual if you have trouble finding them.
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
Warnings
- The vehicle should always be turned off when working with the battery.
- When loosening or tightening the bolt on the battery clamp, make sure the adjustable wrench fits tightly on the bolt to prevent stripping it.
Writer Bio
Dwight Malone is a journalist who has worked for various Chicago-area newspapers, including the "Chicago Tribune" and "Naperville Sun." He has been a writer, editor and graphic designer since 2000. Malone studied journalism at Eastern Illinois University.
