How to Reset Check Engine Light on the RAM 1500

Is your RAM 1500 check engine light illuminated on your dashboard? Are you not sure how to reset the check engine light on your RAM 1500? There’s no need to worry, as resetting the check engine light is a fairly simple process. To reset a RAM 1500 check engine light, just follow the steps below: 

• Disconnect the negative cable from your battery
• Wait 20 minutes
• Reconnect the negative cable

And that should be all it takes to reset the computer. However, older models may require you to drive the truck for about 50 miles before the reset can take affect. Keep in mind that when your 1500’s battery has been disconnected, it will reset all electronic systems in your vehicle, not just the check engine light. 

Resetting your RAM 1500 check engine light is a very straightforward process. However, if you’d like to avoid this situation again, it’s good to understand why your check engine light turned on in the first place. Find out more with the Patriot Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of McAlester service experts below! 

Why Is My RAM 1500 Check Engine Light On?

There’s a variety of reasons why your RAM 1500’s check engine light may have turned on. Here are the three primary causes for its activation: 

1. Error Codes: There are a variety of error codes generated by the computer that pinpoint exactly what is causing the engine light to appear. These error codes can be retrieved by using an automotive diagnostic scanner. Many of these scanners can also clear the code and turn off the warning light. DIY types can purchase one of these code readers to take care of the problem themselves, but if you’re like most Eufaula or Eufaula area drivers, you’ll probably feel more comfortable having the professional auto service specialistsat Patriot Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of McAlester take care of this for you.
2. Loose Gas Cap: This is the most common reason a RAM 1500 check engine light comes on, and it’s the easiest to fix. Access the gas cap, remove it and carefully replace it, making sure that it is seated correctly. Then disconnect the battery, as described above, reconnect it, and the check engine light should turn off.
3. Make Sure it’s NOT the Service Required Light: It seems obvious, but with the various warning lights built into new vehicles, it can be easy to mistake the Service Required light for the Check Engine light. Your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram owner’s manual should have a guide that identifies each warning light. 

Check Your RAM 1500 Check Engine Light at Patriot Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of McAlester!

Figuring out how to reset the check engine light on your RAM 1500 is an easy task, however, we completely understand if you’d prefer the service technicians at Patriot Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of McAlester to take a more thorough look at your vehicle. Feel free to schedule a service appointment at our McAlester service center for a check engine light diagnosis or any other type of maintenance offered at our Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram dealership.