Toyota Tacoma is really a smart vehicle to drive on regular and off-road.
If you own one of the models of Tacoma, you should know some basic things about grading the vehicle. Check engine light is one of them.
When there is an issue with the engine, the check engine light will turn on. It is a good thing that user can know something is wrong and need to be fixed.
But after fixing the issue, you might want to know how to reset the check engine light on Toyota Tacoma. This article is going to teach you the process in simple steps.
What is Check Engine Light on Toyota Tacoma?
Toyota Tacoma started using a computer-based engine in 1995. It means the truck comes with a computer system inside the engine which can detect issues regarding the engine. The computer system can scan the issues inside the engine and show them on the car’s dashboard. It helps the vehicle owner to prevent probable incidents.
Check engine light is a part of the computerized system of Toyota Tacoma. While different lights indicate different issues, the check engine light indicates something is wrong with the engine. You will see the check light on the dashboard. It used to be yellow that is easily noticeable while driving the truck.
What Do You Need to Reset the Check Engine Light?
There are different ways to reset the check engine light. But I would recommend following the authentic way to reset the light. It will need an OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner. The scanner can monitor the vehicle’s computer system and read the diagnostic trouble codes. Follow the method as described in the later part to solve the engine check the light issue.
Steps to Follow to Reset the Check Engine Light
Here are the steps to follow to reset the check engine light on Tacoma 2000 and upper versions.
Step 1: Locate the Diagnostic Link Connector
The very first step to reset the check engine light on Toyota Tacoma is connecting an OBD scanner. But that requires the diagnostic link connector. On the Toyota Tacoma, you will find this connector underneath the dashboard.
Depending on the Tacoma model, the position of the DLC may vary, but it will be in the dashboard or near the dashboard. Check closely to that area and find out the DLC.
Step 2: Conned the OBD 2 Scanner
Now that you have found the diagnostic link connector, it is time to connect the OBD 2 scanner. Plugin the connector simply through the DLC. Make sure the connection is secured properly before going for the next step.
Step 3: Ignite the Engine
The scanner can read the codes of the engine computer only when it is turned on. It doesn’t, however, need to run the engine. Just place the vehicle’s key on the ignition and turn it to the accessory power position. It will turn everything, including the accessories, without running the engine. The scanner also gets the power at this time.
Step 4: Erase the Code
Now the scanner is connected and can read the codes. There will be an erase button on the scanner. This erase button usually removes the codes from the vehicle’s system. Press the erase button and wait a few seconds.
If there is no erase button on the scanner, it should have an on-screen menu. From the on-screen menu, use the scroll button to erase the codes from DTC. Once the code is erased, press the enter button.
Step 5: Reset the Light to Default
If you have followed the above steps in the right way, you already have removed the codes from the engine’s system. It means the check engine light won’t be showing on the dashboard.
It is time to set the light to its default. From the on-screen menu of the scanner, select default, and it will reset the check engine light.
While following all these steps, make sure to remain calm. Even if it is an emergency, be patient and do the steps one by one.
However, if there are some major issues in the engine system, make sure you are solving them first.
For Which Tacoma Models You Can Follow the Above Method?
Use an OBD 2 scanner for Tacoma 2014, Tacoma 2017, Tacoma 2004, Tacoma 2006, and any new version.
Quick Method to Reset Check Engine Light on Toyota Tacoma
Regardless of the model number of Toyota Tacoma, there is a quick method to reset the check engine light. Remember that the method is not recommended.
But if you are sure that there are no issues in the engine, follow this method. For example, if the gas cap is misplaced, the check engine light can turn on.
Simply open the engine cover of the truck. Now locate the battery connection of the vehicle. Take a wrench and loosen the nut of the negative connection of the battery. Once it is removable, disconnect the negative connection of the battery. Wait for 30 seconds to 60 seconds.
Now connect the battery’s negative connection again and ignite the engine. The check engine light should go away from the dashboard.
The problem with this method is, sometimes, the vehicle may not start properly again. That’s why the method is not recommended much.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions to give more details on check engine light reset.
Is it safe to drive your car with the check engine light on?
It is not safe to drive the Toyota Tacoma if the check engine light is on. If the light turns on while driving the truck, be aware that it is indicating something is wrong with the vehicle’s engine. No need to get panicked just because the light is showing. Simply park the truck in a safe place and overlook the entire system. If there are some serious issues, visit a local mechanic.
What does check engine light indicate?
Check engine light indicates that it has found issues in the vehicle’s engine. The light actually reads the computer’s signal and shows up the notice on the dashboard.
How many miles can you drive with the check engine light on?
There is no particular distance, but in general, up to 100 miles, you can safely drive the Tacoma truck without any major issues. But don’t continue driving on the road without checking the details.
Can low oil cause the check engine light to come on?
When Tacoma or any vehicle uses the oil for a while, the maintenance required light will turn on. There is no interlink between the check engine light and the maintenance required light.
Wrapping Up
This guide clearly described how to reset the check engine light on Toyota Tacoma. Regardless of the Tacoma model, the process and the steps will be almost the same. If it is the first time and you are getting confused, you must consult with a mechanic.
I strongly recommend keeping an OBD scanner in the car to use in emergencies.
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