Learn How to Reset a Check Engine Light

If the dreaded check engine light comes on while you’re driving in Fort Collins, your first step should be to schedule a service appointment promptly to have your vehicle inspected, so you can resolve the issue and proceed to travel safely once more. However, many experienced drivers know that sometimes, it’s not that simple. Occasionally, your check engine light may remain on, even after you have your vehicle inspected and serviced. In that case, you’re probably wondering how to reset a check engine light.

As always, MINI of Loveland is here with the service information you need! Read below to learn a few tips to reset a check engine light, and contact us with any questions.

If There Is a Problem, Have It Resolved

If you’ve reached the point where you’re wondering how you can reset a check engine light, you’re either sure there’s nothing actually wrong, or you’ve decided not to fix it right now. While this is ultimately the driver’s decision, we do urge you to take care of the issue as soon as it arises, for your own safety. Plus, ignoring a problem now can cause it to snowball into a much bigger issue over time. You can easily schedule service online to have the experienced technicians at MINI of Loveland get you back on Denver roads.

Disconnect the Negative Battery Cable

If you haven’t found any problem that needs to be addressed, manually resetting your check engine light is the next logical action. To those who aren’t overly familiar with what’s under the hood of their car, this may sound incredibly daunting. It’s actually quite easy! Just follow these steps:

1. Turn off the ignition and put on safety glasses and gloves.
2. Locate the negative terminal. Usually, it has a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. For reference, the positive cap is red and will have a positive (+) symbol.
3. Loosen the nut on the negative terminal with a wrench, then pull the negative connector from the battery. Keep it to the side for 30 – 60 seconds.
4. Reconnect the negative cable and tighten it back up with your wrench.

This should do the trick, but if it doesn’t, we’ve got another option for you to try. Please note that disconnecting your battery may also reset your MINI Connected system!

Check Your Gas Cap

You may simply have a loose or cracked gas cap, which causes fumes to release. Oftentimes, your engine light will illuminate as a result. When you’re safely parked, simply remove your gas cap and put it right back on. If the engine light doesn’t turn off right away after you perform this check, follow the steps above to disconnect the battery, and you should be good to go!

Visit MINI of Loveland for All Your Service Needs

We hope this guide has helped you understand how to reset a check engine light. We’re here for you if you have questions or your vehicle requires an inspection! Visit us near Boulder for the professional care you and your vehicle deserve. For more information on your dashboard lights and what they mean, see our guide to MINI Cooper warning lights.