How do you reset the check engine light on a 2017 Chevy Sonic?

The quickest way to reset the check engine light on a 2017 Chevy Sonic is to read and clear the stored fault codes with an OBD-II scanner after the underlying issue has been addressed. If you don’t have a scanner, a temporary reset by disconnecting the battery is possible but not recommended as a routine fix since it may reset other settings and won’t repair the fault.

What the check engine light means

The check engine light (MIL) signals that the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics system has detected a fault. A stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC) points to a sensor, actuator, or emissions-control subsystem that may be malfunctioning. Some issues are minor and self-correcting, others require repair. Clearing codes without addressing the fault will typically cause the light to return once the monitors run again.

Resetting the light with an OBD-II scanner

Using an OBD-II scanner to reset the light is the standard method. It erases the stored codes and usually extinguishes the MIL after the codes are cleared, provided the underlying fault has been addressed. The process does not fix the problem by itself; if the fault persists, the light will likely reappear after a drive cycle as the system tests are re-run.

Here are the steps to reset using an OBD-II scanner:

1. Park the Sonic on a level surface with the parking brake engaged and the ignition off.


2. Locate the OBD-II data port under the dash on the driver’s side (usually near the knee area) and connect your scanner according to its instructions.


3. Turn the ignition to ON (engine off) so the scanner can communicate with the vehicle’s computer.


4. Use the scanner to read the stored trouble codes and note them if you wish to reference them later.


5. Use the scanner’s function to erase/clear codes. Confirm the action if prompted.


6. Turn off the ignition, disconnect the scanner, and start the engine to verify the light is off.


7. Drive normally to allow the vehicle’s readiness monitors to complete their tests; the light may return if a fault remains or if monitors haven’t finished.

After you clear codes and restart the car, you may need to drive over several short trips or on highways to allow the powertrain and emission systems to complete their readiness checks. If the light reappears, it indicates the fault is still present or a required test did not run to completion.

Drive-cycle readiness and what to expect

Many modern vehicles, including the 2017 Chevy Sonic, use drive cycles to complete readiness tests for emissions-related systems. Clearing codes does not guarantee that all monitors will be “ready” immediately. You should drive normally for a period and monitor whether the light stays off or returns. If it returns, you’ll want to re-scan to identify the current fault codes or have a professional diagnose the issue.

Alternative reset methods

If you don’t have an OBD-II scanner, a temporary reset can be attempted by disconnecting the battery, but this should be considered a last resort and is not a fix for the underlying issue. It can also reset other vehicle settings and require reprogramming of some systems.

Battery disconnect method

To perform a battery disconnect: park the car with the engine off and the parking brake engaged; disconnect the negative battery cable with the appropriate tools and let the battery sit for about 10–15 minutes; reconnect the negative cable securely; start the engine and check if the light is off. You may need to re-enter radio presets, set the clock, and in some cases re-enter a radio security code. This method clears codes temporarily but does not address the root cause of the fault, so the CEL may return.

If you don’t have access to an OBD-II scanner, seek professional help or visit an auto parts store that offers free code reading. A proper diagnosis helps ensure you aren’t masking a more serious issue.

Summary

For a 2017 Chevy Sonic, the recommended way to reset the check engine light is to read and clear the codes with an OBD-II scanner after confirming the fault is addressed. The light may reappear if the problem persists or if the readiness monitors have not completed their tests. A battery disconnect can clear the light temporarily but can disrupt other settings and should not replace proper diagnosis and repair. Drive cycles and monitor readiness tests play a key role in whether the light stays off after a reset.

Can you manually clear a check engine light?

Yes, you can reset the check engine light yourself, but it is crucial to first diagnose the problem as the light indicates a potential issue with your vehicle. Common methods for resetting the light include using an OBD-II scanner, disconnecting the car's battery, or checking and tightening the gas cap. Simply clearing the light without a diagnosis could cause damage or hide a serious problem. 
Methods to reset the light
Using an OBD-II scanner 
This is the most reliable method, as it allows you to read the specific error codes before clearing them. 

1. Locate the OBD-II port, usually under the dashboard. 
2. Plug in the scanner and turn the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine. 
3. Use the scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes. 
4. Choose the option to "Clear Codes" or "Reset" to turn off the light. 

This video demonstrates how to use an OBD-II scanner to reset your check engine light: 51sSummit RacingYouTube · May 9, 2021
Disconnecting the battery
This method resets the car's computer, but it will also erase other settings like radio presets and clock memory. 

1. Identify the negative terminal on your car battery (marked with a "-" and often covered in black). 
2. Using a wrench, loosen the bolt on the negative terminal clamp. 
3. Gently pull the negative cable off the terminal and hold it aside for about 30-60 seconds. 
4. Reattach the negative cable to the terminal and tighten the bolt. 

You can watch this video to learn how to disconnect the battery to reset the check engine light: 1mHelpful DIYYouTube · Mar 22, 2020
Checking the gas cap
A loose or cracked gas cap is a very common cause for the check engine light. 

1. Open your gas tank and remove the cap.
2. Inspect it for any cracks or damage.
3. Screw the cap back on tightly until you hear it click.

Important considerations

• Diagnose first: Always read the codes with an OBD-II scanner before resetting, as the light could be a warning of a serious and potentially costly problem. 
• Address the root cause: Simply resetting the light will not fix the underlying issue, and the light will likely come back on if the problem isn't addressed. 
• Drive cycle: After resetting the light, you may need to drive the car for 30 to 100 miles to allow the vehicle's systems to complete a full "drive cycle" for the monitors to reset. 

This video explains why you should diagnose the check engine light before resetting it: 1mTampaTecYouTube · Apr 16, 2017

How to reset check engine light on 2017 Chevy Sonic?

Steps to Reset Check Engine Light

1. Turn off the ignition and put on safety glasses and gloves.
2. Locate the negative terminal on your car battery.
3. Loosen the nut on the negative terminal with a wrench and pull the negative connector from the battery.
4. Reconnect the negative cable and tighten it with your wrench.

How to clear a Chevy check engine light?

Method 2: Disconnect the Battery

1. Turn off your Chevy and open the hood.
2. Locate the battery and disconnect the negative cable (usually black with a "-" symbol).
3. Wait about 15 minutes for the car's computer to reset.
4. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
5. Start your Chevy and check if the light is gone.

How to reset Nissan engine light?

On keep them on for 5 seconds turn it off bring it back down to idle and you'll find the engine light will turn off.