How do you turn off the check engine light on a Chevy Trax?

If the check engine light on your Chevy Trax is illuminated, it's important to address the underlying issue as soon as possible. The check engine light is an indicator that there's a problem with your vehicle's emissions control system or other critical components. While you can temporarily turn off the light, the root cause of the problem will still need to be diagnosed and repaired. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to turn off the check engine light on a Chevy Trax.

Identify the Cause of the Check Engine Light

The first step is to determine what's causing the check engine light to illuminate. This can be done by using an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner, which can read the diagnostic trouble codes stored in your Trax's computer. These codes will provide information about the specific issue that triggered the check engine light.

Clear the Diagnostic Trouble Codes

• Connect an OBD-II scanner to the diagnostic port in your Trax, usually located under the dashboard or in the engine bay.


• Use the scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes and make a note of them.


• Once you've identified the problem, use the scanner to clear the codes and turn off the check engine light.

Keep in mind that clearing the codes will only temporarily turn off the check engine light. The light will come back on if the underlying issue is not addressed.

Address the Underlying Issue

After clearing the diagnostic trouble codes, you'll need to address the root cause of the problem that triggered the check engine light. This may involve replacing a faulty sensor, repairing a malfunctioning component, or addressing an issue with the emissions control system. Consult a professional mechanic or refer to your Trax's service manual for guidance on how to properly diagnose and repair the problem.

Verify the Check Engine Light is Off

Once you've addressed the underlying issue, start your Trax and check to see if the check engine light has stayed off. If the light comes back on, it's a sign that the problem has not been fully resolved, and you'll need to repeat the diagnostic and repair process.

Turning off the check engine light on a Chevy Trax is a temporary solution, and the root cause of the problem should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure the long-term health and performance of your vehicle.

How to reset check engine light on Chevy?

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 I manually turn off my check engine light?

Turn it to the on position. But don't start the engine. Then turn it off do this three times in a row on the fourth. Try turn the key and start the car.

Can I turn off my own check engine light?

Yes, you can manually turn off the check engine light, but you should only do so after addressing the underlying issue. The most common methods are disconnecting the negative battery terminal or using an OBD2 scanner, which is the most reliable way. 
Before you begin

• Check the gas cap: A loose or cracked gas cap is a very common cause of the check engine light. Tighten it firmly to see if the light turns off after a few driving cycles. 
• Understand the risk: Resetting the light without fixing the problem means the light will likely come back on. This can also mask a serious issue and may void your warranty. 

This video demonstrates how to check the gas cap and reset the check engine light: 34sVEHIX411YouTube · Jul 21, 2019
Method 1: Disconnect the battery (DIY, no tools) 

• This method may also erase other settings like your radio presets and clock. 
• Locate the negative terminal: Find the car battery and identify the negative terminal (usually black with a "-" symbol). 
• Disconnect the cable: Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal and pull the cable off. Keep it away from the battery. 
• Drain residual power: Press the brake pedal for about 30 seconds to drain any remaining power. 
• Reconnect and tighten: Reconnect the negative cable to the terminal and tighten the nut securely. 
• Restart: Turn the vehicle on to see if the light is off. 

Method 2: Use an OBD2 scanner (recommended) 

• This is the most reliable and professional method, as it allows you to read the specific code causing the light to come on. 
• Locate the port: Plug the scanner into the OBD2 port, typically under the dashboard near the steering column. 
• Power on the vehicle: Turn the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine. 
• Read and clear codes: Follow the scanner's instructions to read the error code, understand what it means, and then clear it. 
• Restart the car: Turn off the ignition, disconnect the scanner, and start the car to ensure the light is off. 
• Note: Many auto parts stores can perform this service for free or for a small fee. 

How to reset check engine light on Chevy Trax?

To reset the check engine light on a Chevy Trax, you can either use an OBD-II scanner to clear the codes, or you can disconnect the negative battery terminal for 15-30 minutes to reset the computer. However, be aware that disconnecting the battery will also erase other settings like radio presets. A simpler potential solution is to simply tighten a loose gas cap, as this is a common cause for the light to come on and it will often turn off on its own after driving a short distance. 
This video demonstrates how to reset the check engine light using an OBD-II scanner: 49sHidalgo Motors Co TVYouTube · Dec 28, 2023
Method 1: Disconnect the battery 

1. Turn off the vehicle and open the hood . 
2. Locate the negative battery terminal, which is usually black with a "–" symbol. 
3. Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the terminal clamp: and slide the cable off the battery post. 
4. Wait for 15-30 minutes: to ensure the computer's power is fully drained. 
5. Reconnect the negative cable: securely to the terminal and tighten the nut. 
6. Start the car: to see if the light has gone off. 

You can watch this video to learn how to reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery: 58sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Oct 23, 2025
Method 2: Use an OBD-II scanner 

1. Locate the OBD-II port: (usually under the dashboard) and plug in the scanner. 
2. Turn the ignition to the "on" position, but do not start the engine. 
3. Follow the scanner's instructions: to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and note them down. 
4. Use the scanner to erase or clear the codes . 
5. Turn off the ignition, unplug the scanner, and start the engine to confirm the light is off. 

Method 3: Tighten the gas cap 

1. Check the gas cap: to make sure it is on securely and tighten it until it clicks. 
2. Drive the vehicle: for a short time. If the loose cap was the only issue, the light will turn off after a few miles. 

This video shows how to reset the check engine light without a scanner by removing the fuse: 1mChristopher FarmerYouTube · Mar 31, 2023
Important considerations

• Don't ignore the light: Resetting the light without fixing the underlying problem can lead to more serious damage. The light will come back on if the issue is not resolved. 
• Other systems may be reset: Disconnecting the battery can clear other settings, such as your radio presets and clock. 
• Flashing light: If the check engine light is flashing, it indicates a more severe issue. You should pull over as soon as it is safe and have the vehicle inspected immediately.