How do you reset the check engine light on a Chevy S10?

The check engine light on a Chevy S10 can be reset relatively easily, either by addressing the underlying issue that triggered the light or by using diagnostic tools to clear the trouble code. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to reset the check engine light on your Chevy S10.

Reasons for the Check Engine Light

The check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), is illuminated when the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system detects a problem with the engine, transmission, or other related components. Some common reasons for the check engine light to turn on in a Chevy S10 include:

• Faulty oxygen sensors


• Loose or damaged gas cap


• Malfunctioning catalytic converter


• Issues with the engine's ignition system


• Problems with the emissions control system

Addressing the underlying issue that triggered the check engine light is the best way to ensure it doesn't reappear.

Steps to Reset the Check Engine Light

If the check engine light is on, but you've already addressed the problem, you can reset the light using the following steps:

1. Locate the diagnostic port, usually under the dashboard on the driver's side.


2. Connect an OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner to the diagnostic port.


3. Turn on the scanner and navigate to the "Diagnostic Trouble Codes" or "DTCs" menu.


4. Read the trouble codes displayed on the scanner, which will indicate the specific problem that triggered the check engine light.


5. If you've already addressed the issue, select the "Clear Codes" or "Reset Check Engine Light" option on the scanner.


6. Disconnect the scanner and start the engine. The check engine light should now be off.

If you don't have access to an OBD2 scanner, you can also try disconnecting the battery for 30 seconds to a minute, which will reset the vehicle's computer and turn off the check engine light. However, this method may not work if there are still underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Preventing the Check Engine Light from Returning

To prevent the check engine light from returning, it's important to address the root cause of the problem that triggered it in the first place. This may involve replacing faulty parts, tightening the gas cap, or having the vehicle's emissions system checked and serviced. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help identify and address potential issues before they trigger the check engine light.

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 do you reset the check engine light with a gas pedal?

You can attempt to reset the check engine light using a "drive cycle" method, which involves accelerating to a specific speed, holding it, and then coasting down, though success depends on the car's make and model and if the underlying issue is truly resolved. Other, more universal methods to clear the light include using an OBD2 scanner, disconnecting the battery, or turning the key on and off multiple times. 
Method 1: The drive cycle (using the gas pedal)
This method aims to complete the diagnostic checks your car's computer performs. It's not a direct reset but a way for the computer to determine the problem is gone. 
This video demonstrates how to perform a check engine light drive cycle: 58sAuto EducateYouTube · Apr 14, 2025

1. Ensure the engine is warm: Let the car sit overnight so the engine and coolant are at the same starting temperature. 
2. Start the engine and warm it up: If your car's AC is on, let it run until the engine reaches at least 160∘160 raised to the composed with power160∘F. 
3. Accelerate slowly: Press the gas pedal down slowly to a speed of 50−6050 minus 6050−60 mph. You should aim for about 75%75 %75% throttle, meaning you are pushing the pedal about three-quarters of the way down. 
4. Hold the speed: Maintain this speed for 3−53 minus 53−5 minutes. 
5. Coast to a stop: Then, without touching the brake or clutch, let the car coast down to around 202020 mph. 
6. Continue driving: Drive normally for a while. The light may turn off on its own after several driving cycles if the issue has been resolved. 

Other methods to reset the light
If the drive cycle doesn't work, try these common methods:

• Use a scanner: Connect an OBD2 scanner to the diagnostic port to erase the codes. This is the fastest and most reliable method. 
• Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative (black) battery terminal. Some suggest turning on the headlights or horn to drain any remaining power. Leave the battery disconnected for about 15 minutes before reconnecting. 
• Cycle the ignition: Turn the key to the "on" position (without starting the engine) for a few seconds, then turn it off. Repeat this process 3−53 minus 53−5 times. 
• Check the gas cap: Ensure the gas cap is tightened properly. If it was loose, a simple tighten and a few drive cycles may clear the light. 

This video shows how to reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery: 51sbig daddy's houseYouTube · Jul 20, 2022

How to reset check engine light on Chevy S10?

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.

Can you manually clear a check engine light?

Yes, you can reset the check engine light yourself, but it is important to first address the underlying problem. You can reset it by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for about a minute, pulling the correct fuse, or using an OBD-II scanner to clear the code. The light will likely come back on if the issue is not fixed, and resetting it may also clear your radio presets and other vehicle settings. 
Methods to reset the light
1. Disconnect the battery 
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This is a common method, but it can reset other electronic settings in your car. 

• Turn off the car and remove the key.
• Locate the negative battery terminal (usually black with a minus sign).
• Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the terminal and pull the cable off.
• Leave the cable disconnected for 30-60 seconds.
• Reconnect the cable and tighten the nut.
• Start the car to see if the light is off.

2. Use an OBD-II scanner 

• Purchase or borrow an OBD-II scanner. Many auto parts stores will scan it for free. 
• Locate the OBD-II port, usually under the dashboard on the driver's side. 
• Plug in the scanner and turn the ignition to the "on" position (without starting the engine). 
• Follow the scanner's instructions to read and then clear the error codes. 

3. Remove the fuse 

• This method is more effective on older vehicles. 
• Locate your fuse box and find the fuse for the Engine Control Unit (ECU) or Engine Control Module (ECM). 
• Use the fuse puller or needle-nose pliers to remove the fuse. 
• Wait for 10-15 minutes, then reinsert the fuse. 

Important considerations

• The underlying problem remains: Disconnecting the battery or clearing the code does not fix the issue. If the problem persists, the light will turn back on. 
• Prepare for smog checks: Clearing the code can reset your vehicle's readiness monitors, which is necessary for passing an emissions test. It may take several days of driving to reset these monitors. 
• Be careful: Do not use a scanner to try and "jump" the diagnostic port. This can damage your car's computer.