After completing an oil change on your vehicle, it can be frustrating to see the check engine light illuminate on your dashboard.
While the check engine light can indicate various issues, it is not uncommon for it to be triggered by a simple oil change.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to turn off the check engine light after an oil change.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the process to help you troubleshoot and resolve this common issue.
Source: suntrap
How to Turn Off the Check Engine Light After an Oil Change
1. Check for Loose or Disconnected Wires
Before probing into more complex solutions, start with a quick visual inspection under the hood.
Ensure that no wires or connectors were accidentally disconnected or left loose during the oil change.
Securing any loose connections can sometimes resolve the issue and turn off the check engine light.
2. Verify the Oil Filter and Oil Level
Ensure that the oil filter is correctly installed and that the oil level is within the recommended range.
An improperly installed oil filter or insufficient oil can trigger the check engine light.
If necessary, top up the oil to the appropriate level and double-check the filter’s installation.
3. Perform a Manual Reset
Through a specific sequence of actions, many vehicles allow for a manual reset of the check engine light.
Consult your vehicle’s manufacturer’s manual for instructions on how to perform a manual reset.
This often involves turning the ignition key to a specific position, pressing a combination of buttons, or using a reset tool.
4. Disconnect the Battery
If a manual reset doesn’t work, you can try disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for about 15 minutes.
This will reset the vehicle’s onboard computer system, which may turn off the check engine light.
Keep in mind that disconnecting the battery can also reset other settings, such as radio presets, so be prepared to re-enter any necessary information.
5. Use an OBD-II Scanner
If the manual reset and battery disconnect methods do not work, consider using an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner.
These devices can read and clear trouble codes stored in the vehicle’s computer system.
Connect the scanner to the OBD-II port located under the dashboard.
Follow the instructions for your specific scanner, and clear any relevant codes.
6. Drive the Vehicle
Occasionally, the check engine light will turn off on its own after a few driving cycles.
You can take a short drive, to allow the onboard computer to reevaluate the system.
If the issue is resolved, the check engine light may turn off automatically.
7. Consult a Professional Mechanic
If everything else fails, or if you’re unsure about performing these steps yourself, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance.
A qualified mechanic can use more advanced diagnostic tools to identify and address any underlying issues which may trigger the check engine light.
Conclusion
Experiencing a check engine light after an oil change can be frustrating, but in many cases, it’s a minor issue that can be easily resolved.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and turn off the check engine light, restoring peace of mind and ensuring your vehicle continues to run smoothly.
If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and solution.