How to Manually Clear the Engine Fault Light?
3 Answers
Engine fault light cannot be directly cleared manually. Instead, you need to go to a 4S shop or auto repair shop to use a fault detector for troubleshooting before it can be cleared, or disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to clear the fault code, but this may cause more serious damage to the car. When the engine fault light comes on, it indicates that the engine has a fault and needs to be inspected and repaired. If it is a yellow light, it means a general fault that does not affect the engine's operation, but inspection and repair are still necessary. If it is a red light, it indicates a serious fault, and the engine must be stopped. You should also check if the water temperature warning light or oil pressure warning light is on.
The manual method to clear the engine warning light actually refers to using professional tools. I've been driving for over ten years, and when the light comes on, don't rush to act—confirm the issue is resolved before handling it. A common approach is to buy an OBD scanner, plug it into the diagnostic port (usually located under the steering wheel), connect it to a phone app to read the trouble codes, and then tap "clear." Disconnecting the negative battery terminal for a few minutes can also force a reset, but this messes up the radio and clock settings, requiring readjustment, which is quite a hassle. I tried it once before, and the light came back on within two days—turned out the throttle body was dirty, causing the issue. So, the warning light is a signal; after manually clearing it, it's best to take a test drive to check the car's condition and ensure there are no hidden risks.
The method to manually clear the fault light is, simply put, using an OBD device to handle it yourself. As a car enthusiast, I usually connect a Bluetooth scanner to an app, plug it into the diagnostic port, and first read the fault codes to see if it's a minor issue with a sensor or wiring. If the fault has been fixed, just click to clear it. Disconnecting the battery cable is also an option but comes with higher risks, as it might cause errors in the ABS or navigation system. From my experience, the light often indicates an emission issue, so after clearing it, don't forget to check the fuel system. Buying an inexpensive diagnostic tool for home use is both safe and convenient.
