How to Reset a Car Computer

by Contributing WriterUpdated July 13, 2023
itstillruns article image
skynesher/E+/GettyImages

If your check engine light keeps coming on after you have repaired your automobile then this means the trouble code is still in memory. You will need to clear this code out of the car's computer. Clearing the codes is a simple process and can be done in a matter of minutes. Following the steps will ensure a clean start to your cars computer, and no more check engine light flashing after you already fixed the issue.

1. Open the hood

Open up the hood.

2. Remove the positive terminal cable

Remove the positive terminal cable from the battery using your pliers or wrench.

3. Go to your fuse box in your car

Go to your fuse box in your car, and look at the diagram. Select the fuse that is labelled "ECM" and remove this fuse. Sit the fuse aside for now.

4. Keep the car disconnected

Keep the car disconnected like this for two to three minutes to clear the computers memory.

5. Insert the fuse back in to the box

Insert the fuse back in to the box. Reconnect the battery terminal. Your car should now be reset.

Video: How to Reset Your Car’s Computer

Helpful comments on this video:

  • These are awesome. Crazy, you were producing such quality clips even way back then.

As far as I know Scotty is a 1 man team, but if there are others involved, thank you for the work you've done. * Scotty thank you for the car computer reset tip! My Subaru 2010 Forester that has 364530 miles is still running with the same transmission but with 2 engine overhauls and it is almost due for timing belt replacement. I've cleaned my engine bay over this weekend disconnecting the battery and the engine would idle rough when the A/C engages. By resetting the computer according to your tip did the trick, thanks and keep on bringing your funny common knowledge videos!

More Articles

article divider
×