One of the most crucial signs on the Ford F150’s dashboard is the check engine light. Any potential engine-related difficulties are flagged, and you are prompted to act right away.
But, occasionally the light might turn on even if the engine is in perfect working order, and in such circumstances, you might want to reset it and I will tell you.
For starters, it’s important to figure out the problem that has the check engine light on before you reset it. Using an OBD-II scanner is one classic method for doing this.
A simple way to get an OBD-II scanner is online or at any auto parts retailer. Once you have the scanner, connect it to the diagnostic port on the driver’s side of the dashboard.
You can identify the issue by using the scanner to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that are saved in the system.
Using a diagnostic scan tool is the first method of turning off the check engine light and is the one I recommend.
You can reset the light and clear the codes using this procedure, which is more precise than removing the battery. With a diagnostic scan tool, perform the procedures listed below to reset the check engine light:
- First step: connect your Ford F150’s OBD-II connector under the dashboard to the diagnostic scan tool.
- Step 2: Start the engine, then wait for the scan tool to start. Then, choose “Read Codes” from the top menu. The tool will show any stored codes.
- Step 3: Click “Erase Codes” to remove all codes from the ECM.
- The fourth step is to turn off the ignition and remove the scan tool from the OBD-II port.
- Step 5: After a brief delay, start the ignition. You have successfully reset the check engine light if it remains off.
You can try to reset the check engine light by unplugging the battery if you don’t have an OBD-II scanner. This approach, however, might not always be successful, particularly if the underlying issue is not addressed.
The actions listed below should be followed to reset the check engine light using this method:
- First, shut off the engine and lift the hood. Find the battery, then pry the negative cable—the black one—off of the negative terminal using a wrench.
- Second step: Hold off for at least 15 minutes. This will enable the engine control module (ECMpower )’s capacitors to drain, erasing any fault codes that had been previously saved.
- Third Step: Reattach the negative cable to the terminal and tighten it with the wrench.
- Forth step: Start the engine by igniting the gas. You have successfully reset the check engine light if it remains off. To find out for sure, take your Ford F150 to a mechanic. If the light turns on once again, there might still be a problem.
It’s important to understand that turning off the check engine light on your Ford F150 won’t resolve any underlying problems.
Even when you reset the light, there can still be an issue with your car. Taking your Ford F150 to a professional for diagnostic and repair is advised.
Final words
Let’s sum up by saying that anyone can easily reset the check engine light on a Ford F150. The battery detachment technique or a diagnostic scan instrument are both options.
Yet, it’s crucial to deal with any underlying problems that might be setting off the light. It’s advisable to have your Ford F150 diagnosed and repaired by a professional if you’re unsure of the problem. By doing this, you may be confident that your car is operating safely and correctly.
