Will Disconnecting Battery Reset Check Engine Light
The glow of the check engine light can be a source of anxiety for any vehicle owner. I also faced this problem. When thinking about a solution, the first thing that comes to mind is “will disconnecting battery reset the check engine light”. So actually, will disconnecting battery reset check engine light?
Yes, disconnecting the battery reset the check engine light, but you should follow the correct procedure. After doing deep research, I was able to reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery.
In this article, I will explain the answer to your question, “will disconnecting battery reset check engine light” and some important information I discovered in the research. Finally, I will explain to you how I reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery as a step-by-step guide.
When Was the Check Engine Light Invented?
The check engine light was invented by the Hudson Motor Company in 1930. The original name for the check engine light was idiot light. They were binary and only illuminated if there was a significant engine issue. At that time, they were not informative or helpful in diagnosing issues.
In the early 1980s, automobile companies introduced computer systems with diagnostic capabilities to their vehicles. They are going beyond the simple on/off function of the idiot light.
How Can You Reset the Check Engine Light?
Mainly, there are 4 methods you can use to reset the check engine light with a high success rate.
| Method | Tools Needed |
| Automatic reset | No specific tools are required |
| Ignition method | No specific tools are required |
| Using an OBD2 scanner | OBD Code Reader |
| Disconnecting battery | Wrench |
Method 1: Automatic Reset
The only thing you have to do here is drive your car as normal. Then, after some time, the central computer will recheck the issue that caused the check engine light. Finally, it will turn off the indicator light. In this method, you must find and fix the underlying issue causing the check engine light. If not, the engine light will not turn off.
Method 2: Ignition Method
First, turn the ignition to the on position, and then turn it to the off position in a second. Repeat this 5 times. The check engine light will go off after a few cycles. This is the easiest method to reset the check engine light. The downside of this is that only some vehicles respond to this procedure.
Method 3: Using an OBD2 Scanner
This is the most famous method used by mechanics. If you have a code reader, connect it to the vehicle’s OBD port and follow the instructions to check and clear codes.
Method 4: Disconnecting the Battery
Finally, our method. This is the most popular one among vehicle owners. I have mentioned this below as a very clear step-by-step guide.
Will Disconnecting Battery Reset Check Engine Light?
Let’s come to our question. Will disconnecting battery reset check engine light? Yes, it will. But you should do it the correct way. The reason for the check engine light on my car was a loose gas cap. So, I uncaped it and tightened it again to fit properly. This is how I reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery.
First, I parked my car in the garage and turned off the engine.
Then I wore protective gloves for additional protection.
Next, I opened the hood of the car and located the battery. It is in the engine bay.
I loosen the negative terminal of the battery by using a wrench.
Then I removed the negative terminal cable of the battery and placed it safely. I made sure I was not in contact with the positive terminal.
I waited for 15 minutes, allowing the vehicle’s electrical system to discharge and reset.
Finally, I reconnected the negative battery terminal and tightened the nut securely.
I started the engine, and the check engine light was successfully reset and turned off.
Is It Safe to Disconnect Battery?
Yes, it is safe to disconnect the battery. But, never attempt to disconnect the battery of your car while it is running. If you have safety gear like gloves and goggles on hand, using them is also advised. So, when resetting, check the engine light and disconnect the battery after turning off the vehicle’s engine.
Why Is It Dangerous to Remove the battery while the engine is running?
There are many downsides to removing the battery while the engine is running.
Electrical System Damage
The battery plays a very important role in providing electrical power to the vehicle’s electronic system. When you remove the battery while the engine is running, it causes a sudden power loss. It causes voltage spikes and fluctuations. It will damage sensitive electronic components of the vehicle.
Risk of Fire
When the battery is disconnected while the engine is running, it creates a spark at the battery terminals. So what happens if there is any flammable gas near the terminals? Yes. You are right. These sparks can potentially lead to a fire.
Personal Safety
This is the most important thing. The alternator charges the battery continually while the engine is running. And also, the battery carries high amperage. Then removing the battery while the engine is running can lead to an electric shock.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
Can a low battery cause indicator lights to come on?
Yes, a low battery causes most of the indicator lights, such as the check engine light, ABS light, and traction control light, to come on. This happens because the central computer and sensors act weirdly due to low power.
What shortens car battery life?
Battery corrosion, long-term partial or complete discharge, improperly secured vibration, under or overcharging, extremely high or low temperatures, contaminated electrolytes, and acid loss are all factors that can reduce the lifespan of a battery.
How long can I leave my battery disconnected?
It is advisable to detach it from the car if you anticipate not using it for a while or won’t be able to recharge it once a week. A detachable automobile battery has the potential to last up to six months when kept safely out of the vehicle.
Which battery terminal should be disconnected first?
Disconnect the negative cable first, followed by the positive, after removing the cords from the old battery. Positive and negative connections for the new battery should be made in reverse order. It can be difficult to keep track of which terminals to disconnect and connect when upgrading your car battery.
Conclusion
I hope you understand how to reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery. Don’t forget to repair the underlying issue with the check engine light after resetting the light.
