How To Bypass Check Engine Light for Remote Start
Have you ever faced the frustrating issue of your car’s check engine light preventing you from enjoying the convenience of remote start? I was able to find a successful method through thorough research.
There are three methods to bypass the check engine light for remote start.
- Disconnecting the battery
- Using an OBD2 scanner
- Disconnecting the fuse
I’m here to share how I successfully reset the check engine light, allowing me to start my car remotely once again. I will also explain the other two methods step by step.
| Method | Summary |
| Disconnecting the Battery | This method involves disconnecting the positive and negative terminals of the car battery for approximately 10 minutes |
| Using an OBD2 Scanner | Using an OBD2 scanner allows you to retrieve the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) stored in your vehicle’s onboard computer. |
| Disconnecting the Fuse | By removing and reconnecting the fuse after a waiting period of approximately 10 minutes, the central computer will recalibrate. |
What Is a Remote Starter?
A remote starter is a radio-controlled device that is typically installed in a vehicle either by the manufacturer or an aftermarket installer. Its purpose is to preheat or cool the vehicle prior to the owner’s entry. By simply pressing a button on a designated key chain remote, the remote starter automatically starts the vehicle for a set duration.
What Is the Use of a Remote Starter?
This feature enables car owners to control their vehicle’s engine from the comfort of their homes, offices, or virtually any location, facilitating the automatic warming or cooling of the interior. Users who have experienced the convenience of a remote engine start (RES) feature in their vehicles often express their delight, particularly in extreme hot or cold weather conditions.
How Does Remote Starter Work?
The ignition system in the car receives a signal to start the vehicle when the driver pushes the button on the remote start key fob. This signal starts the engine and turns on any previously pre-activated heating, cooling, or other amenities.
How to Bypass the Check Engine Light by Disconnecting the Battery?
Here are the steps to bypass the check engine light by disconnecting the battery:
Step 1: Locate the Positive Terminal
The positive terminal is usually marked with a “+” sign and is typically connected to a red cable.
Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Tools
Get a wrench or a socket and ratchet that fit the size of the terminal nut. This will allow you to loosen and remove the connection.
Step 3: Disconnect the Negative Terminal
It is crucial to disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent any electrical mishaps. Locate the negative terminal marked with a “-” sign and proceed to loosen and remove its connection using the same tools mentioned earlier.
Set the negative cable aside, ensuring it does not come into contact with any metal parts.
Step 4: Disconnect the Positive Terminal
Once the negative terminal is safely disconnected, move on to the positive terminal. Loosen the nut on the positive terminal clamp using the wrench or socket and ratchet. Once loose, carefully remove the clamp from the battery post.
Step 5: Reconnect the Battery
Wait for 10 minutes. This will allow the central computer to recalibrate. First, connect the positive terminal, and then connect the negative terminal.
Step 6: Start the Car
Start the car manually and check for the engine light. It should be turned off.
How Did I Bypass the Check Engine Light for Remote Start?
I found the OBD2 scanner would reset the check engine light, so I got one.
Locate the OBD2 Port
I found the OBD2 port under the dashboard on the driver’s side. As there was a panel covering it, I removed it.
Connect the Scanner
Then, I plugged the OBD2 scanner‘s connector into the OBD2 port.
Turn On the Ignition
Next, I inserted the key into the ignition and turned it to the “on” position. This allowed power to flow to the vehicle’s systems without starting the engine.
Turn On the Scanner
After that, I switched on the OBD2 scanner. It turned on automatically once it was connected.
Retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC)
I navigated the scanner’s interface menu to select the option to retrieve codes. The scanner communicated with the vehicle’s onboard computer and displayed any stored trouble codes.
Investigate The Error Codes
The scanner provided alphanumeric codes that corresponded to specific issues with my vehicle. Then, I referred to the scanner’s user manual and online resources to understand the meaning of the codes. It helped me identify potential problems.
Clear the Codes
I followed the scanner’s instructions to access the clear/reset function and confirmed my action. The scanner sent a command to the vehicle’s computer to erase the codes.
Disconnect the Scanner
Once I had cleared the codes, I disconnected the OBD2 scanner from the OBD2 port.
Start the Vehicle
Finally, I started my car manually to check for engine lights. Successful! It was gone! Then I tried remote start, and it also worked perfectly.
How To Bypass the Check Engine Light by Disconnecting the Fuse?
The engine light in a vehicle is connected to the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system, which constantly monitors various components and systems to identify potential issues or malfunctions. While there isn’t typically a specific fuse directly related to the engine light itself, the OBD system is rely on a fuse that supplies power to the vehicle’s powertrain control module or engine control module.
Step 1: Switch off the Ignition
Before working with any fuses, make sure the ignition is turned off to prevent any electrical mishaps. Ensure the vehicle is parked and the key is removed from the ignition.
Step 2: Locate the Fuse Box
The fuse box is usually located either under the dashboard on the driver’s side or in the engine compartment. Consult your vehicle’s manual to find the exact location if you’re unsure.
Step 3: Identify the Correct Fuse
Refer to the fuse box cover or the vehicle’s manual to find the specific fuse associated with the engine light, such as “ECM,” “PCM,” or “OBD.” It should be labeled accordingly. This fuse is responsible for safeguarding the functionality of the system.
Step 4: Remove the Fuse
Using a fuse puller tool (if provided in the fuse box) or a pair of needle-nose pliers, firmly grasp the fuse related to the engine light and carefully pull it straight out of its slot. Alternatively, you can use your fingers to grip and pull the fuse if it’s easily accessible.
Step 5: Reconnect the Fuse
Wait for 10 minutes to let the central computer recalibrate. Then reconnect the fuse. Now the engine light should have gone.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
Can I install a remote start in my car?
Yes, you can. Although many new cars come with remote starting already installed by the manufacturer, any car can have it. When choosing a remote car starter system for your car, you have a lot of alternatives, and we want to make sure you are aware of them all.
Is fuel used for remote starting?
The idea that remote starts require a lot of gas is untrue. The average car warms up in 3 to 5 minutes, using 0.015 gallons of fuel. Researchers estimate that it will take you about 75 remote starts to burn through a gallon of gas.
How do I know if my car has a remote start?
If your car has a remote start, the key fob will include a specific button. Typically, an arrow forming a portion of a circle serves as the remote start symbol. But be aware that certain car manufacturers may use a different symbol for remote starting.
Does remote start charge your battery?
Yes, while your car is running on the remote start, the battery is being charged. Though not as quickly as driving will do, providing your electrical system is in excellent operating order, it is still charging the battery.
Conclusion
Now you know how to bypass check engine light for remote start. Please keep in mind that in most situations, the check engine light comes on because there is a problem with your vehicle. Therefore, get your vehicle inspected if the engine light comes on again and again, even after you reset it.
