How to Clear the Check Engine Light on a 96 Lumina

When the check engine light in your 1996 Lumina comes on it means that the on-board computer system in the car that monitors critical system functions has found a fault in one or more components. The OBD-2 on-board computer system in your 1996 Chevy Lumina also requires that the check engine light be reset manually after repairs are made. This is accomplished with an automotive scan tool available at your local auto-parts store, and only takes a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Automotive scan tool

Instructions

1. Turn the ignition key to the "Off" position and attach the scan tool to the OBD-2 port located under the driver's-side of the dash column to the right of the steering column. The port is a white or black, trapezoidal-shaped connector similar to a large monitor port on your personal computer.

2. Turn the ignition to the run position, but do not start it, and turn the scan tool on. Select "Generic OBD-2" from the main menu. Select "Read Codes" from the first sub-menu. Write down all of the codes that are displayed, and their descriptions, in case the repair you made does not solve the problem and further troubleshooting is needed. Any code from the listed codes that returns can be diagnosed as a hard fault. Select the back button, and select "Erase Codes" from the sub-menu. A warning will pop up that asks if you are sure you want to procede. Select "Yes" and proceed. The codes will be erased in just a few seconds.

3. Test drive the car for a few miles to verify that the repair you have made solved all the problems. If the check engine light does not come on, the process was a success.