I added a quart of oil the other day in a dark area and apparently didn't get the oil filler cap back on all the way. After driving a few miles the Check Engine light illuminated.

After reseating the oil filler cap correctly I disconnected the battery for a minute or so, reconnected, started the car and the light came back on.

Does the battery need to be disconnected for any particular length of time in order for the Check Engine warning to be re-set?

Thanks!

 

Not as far as I know, and I've done that a few times also. Just a few seconds is all that is required. Maybe longer to reset the adaptation "learned" stuff. But it is good to know what code you have first, before resetting it. If you don't have a code reader, local auto parts shops will read and reset for free - usually.

 

did you drive it a little after you re-connected the battery....when my cel comes on because of abs (going up a drive and lifting a wheel while it is spinning)...when I reset by disconnecting the battery and restart the light is still on but as soon as I start driving the car it goes out

 

Thanks summoboy and Chuck for the responses!

summo......yes, even though I am pretty sure I know what tripped the CEL I guess I should have the code read to be on the safe side.

Chuck, I drove the car about 15 miles after disconnecting the battery for a minute or two and it's still illuminated. I also just tried disconnecting for a full 10 minutes and I'm still getting the CEL, but I haven't driven it since this recent, longer disconnect.

If it doesn't go out tomorrow a.m while I'm driving I'll just swing in to the dealer on my way in to work.

Work......ugh.......I sure enjoyed having 4 days off in a row. Nice while it lasted! Hey......under the Life Is Good philosophy at least I have a 35 mile commute, in a new 997.2, over twisty backroads to look forward to in the morning!

 

yeah, as long as the cel is not flashing you are safe to drive...if you have something like an auto zone or Kragans you can get the code read for free...good luck tomorrow and enjoy the ride..