What is the method to reset the engine malfunction indicator light?
2 Answers
Engine malfunction indicator light reset method is: 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position immediately after turning off the engine; 2. Open the engine compartment cover and fuse box cover, remove the EFI fuse, wait for 5 to 10 seconds and then reinstall it; 3. Turn off the ignition switch, switch it back to the ON position, then start the car, and the malfunction light will be reset. The functions of the engine malfunction indicator light are: 1. To alert the driver when the engine malfunctions; 2. If the light does not illuminate when the driver turns the ignition switch to ON, it indicates a fault in the malfunction indicator circuit; 3. It can retrieve stored fault codes and display them through the engine malfunction indicator light with different flashing frequencies. Factors that can cause the engine malfunction light to illuminate include: 1. Overheating of the engine cooling system or cylinder block; 2. Failure of the three-way catalytic converter; 3. Malfunction of the mass airflow sensor; 4. Throttle body failure.
I've run an auto repair shop for over a decade and handled countless vehicles with illuminated check engine lights. Turning off this light isn't as simple as pressing a button—you've got to diagnose the root cause first. Using an OBD scanner to read trouble codes is the most reliable method. For instance, P0171 indicates a lean fuel system, while P0300 points to ignition system issues. Once the problem is identified, proceed with repairs like replacing spark plugs or oxygen sensors—the light usually goes off automatically after fixes. Sometimes you'll need to manually reset the ECU, like disconnecting the battery negative terminal for a few minutes before reconnecting. But this is just a temporary fix—if the underlying issue isn't addressed, the light will reappear quickly. I always warn customers: don't take shortcuts by just disconnecting the battery. Otherwise, engine damage worsens, fuel consumption spikes, and excessive emissions harm the environment. Get a professional inspection at a specialized shop early—it saves both hassle and money. Safety should always come first to avoid breakdowns while driving.
