How do i reset my 98 check engine light ?
Former ******
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,901
Likes: 2
From: Salt Lake City, Utah
First off, fix the problem that set the code. Some codes will clear themselves when you fix the problem. Second off, document all the freeze frame data of when the code was set. Some codes are not as simple as they first seem, and this data can become valuable in the event future problems occur, or if the problem comes back. The best way to clear the code is with a code reader. Many auto parts stores can do it for you. Myself, I would get my own OBD-II reader and do it myself. Having the reader will come in handy. You can do it by disconnecting the battery, but that clears the memory of other things too.
Postmaster
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 2,977
Likes: 1
From: South Texas
I agree, get the code(s) read and resolve the problem before clearing the error codes. If you disconnect the battery, leave it disconnected for 10-15 min. and turn on the headlights to drain any power left in the ECU.
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 19,768
Likes: 1,082
From: St Louis
Bah! on a 98, the easiest way is to remove the 3 or 5 A mini-fuse in tthe engine compartment 2nd fusebox. Leave it out for 10-15 minutes with the ignition off before reinstalling.
If the light comes back, go get it read.
If you disconnect the
If the light comes back, go get it read.
If you disconnect the
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,098
Likes: 11
From: Minnesota
If you use a code reader to clear codes, the light will go off and the history is gone. If you do the fuse thing or battery cable, the light goes out, bit the code stays in history. If the light goes off because the problem resolves itelf after so many drive cycles, it will stay in history also. I have tried it and that is how it worked. The CEL will come back on regardless of how you got it to go out if the problem still exists.
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Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 19,768
Likes: 1,082
From: St Louis
Removing the power resets KAM (Keep Alive Memory) which clears ALL accumulated data and stored parameters. Everything is is reset back to factory defaults and all the stored codes locations are zeroed out.
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,098
Likes: 11
From: Minnesota
When our sons 2000 Sunfire had a plugged cat, the CEL was on. The battery was off for a week as I waited for parts. When I hooked it back up the CEL was off . I plugged in my scanner and pulled out at least 5 old codes, one of which was a cat code. Perhaps I should not have posted what I did on a Ford site since Pontiac may be different. Thanks for your input though on my mistake.
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