Can Trouble Codes Be Cleared Directly Without Repair?
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Trouble codes cannot be cleared directly without repair, as doing so may lead to safety hazards in the motor vehicle. It is necessary to identify the related issues. If the problem genuinely does not exist, you may choose to clear the codes directly. Below are the functions of trouble codes and an introduction to false trouble codes: Functions of Trouble Codes: Detect faults in the electronic control system; the trouble codes are stored in the ECU's memory unit. Illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp to alert the driver that the ECU has detected a fault, prompting cautious driving and timely repair. Activate the fault protection function to ensure safe vehicle operation. Provide fault information to assist maintenance personnel in identifying the cause of the fault. Introduction to False Trouble Codes: False trouble codes typically occur when sensors transmit incorrect information or when they momentarily detect the vehicle operating beyond the initially calibrated limits. In such cases, the engine malfunction light is triggered, resulting in a false trouble code.
Last time my car's engine warning light came on, I used a diagnostic tool to clear the fault codes and kept driving. After 300 kilometers, the light came back on and the car felt sluggish. At the repair shop, they found the fuel injectors were clogged. The mechanic said this kind of fault doesn't go away on its own, and not cleaning it would affect cylinder combustion. Now I understand that fault codes are like warning alerts on a phone—ignoring them doesn't stop the problem from worsening. Especially for core components like the engine or transmission, clearing fault codes is like pretending the problem doesn't exist. Some fault codes hide deeper issues with sensors or wiring, like excessive emissions possibly linked to a faulty catalytic converter—delaying repairs can cost more in the long run. For safety-related faults like brake system warnings, driving without addressing them is even riskier.
I have a friend who always likes to use an OBD tool to clear fault codes himself. Once, his engine just stopped working. Fault codes are actually the codes detected by the car's computer for problems, like P0171 which indicates a lean fuel mixture. If you clear it without cleaning the intake tract, the engine might overheat and be ruined. I once encountered a fault code in the emission system; the light came back on after driving five or six kilometers after clearing it. It turned out the particulate filter was clogged. Such issues must be addressed. Of course, temporarily clearing them to pass the annual inspection is fine, but in the long run, you need to find out the cause. Also, fault lights of different colors indicate different levels of danger: red means repair immediately, yellow means repair as soon as possible. Don't try to save on inspection fees only to end up paying for major repairs.
