How to Clear Computer Codes on a Chevy Truck
by Dwight Malone
Modern trucks have onboard computer systems that help alert you when there is trouble in the vehicle. When there is a problem, your truck's check engine light will go on. The trouble codes can be read with an OBD-1 or OBD-2 scanner, depending on the model year of your truck, which will then pinpoint the problem. Once you've repaired the vehicle, the error codes must be cleared, which can be done by disconnecting the battery to reset the vehicle's computer.
Step 1
Turn ignition to the off position.
Step 2
Open the hood and locate the truck's battery. This will vary, depending on the truck's make, model and year, but will usually be in one of the four corners of the engine compartment.
Step 3
Place the adjustable wrench on the negative battery clamp and adjust the wrench until it is tightly around the bolt holding on the clamp.
Step 4
Loosen the negative battery clamp and remove it from the negative battery terminal.
Step 5
Wait for one minute.
Step 6
Reattach the negative battery clamp.
Step 7
Tighten the negative battery clamp until it is fits tightly around the negative battery terminal and does not move.
Step 8
Start the vehicle and make sure the check engine light is off.
References
Tips
- If you have trouble finding the battery, consult your owner's manual.
- Whenever you disconnect the truck's battery, the radio presets will have to be input again. If you have many presets, it's a good idea to write them down ahead of time so you can easily reprogram them.
- Some Chevy trucks, such as the diesel versions of the Chevy Suburban, have two batteries. You need only disconnect the negative terminal on one battery to clear the computer codes.
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
Warnings
- Never let the negative battery clamp touch the positive battery terminal. This can cause an electrical spark, short out the truck's electrical system, or in extreme situations, the battery can explode.
Writer Bio
Dwight Malone is a journalist who has worked for various Chicago-area newspapers, including the "Chicago Tribune" and "Naperville Sun." He has been a writer, editor and graphic designer since 2000. Malone studied journalism at Eastern Illinois University.
