How to Reset the ECM on a '92 Chevy Truck
by Allen Moore
The 1992 Chevy truck has an electronic control module (ECM) that governs the engine management systems. It's a little computer that performs routine systems checks; if it encounters a malfunction in any of the systems, it generates a diagnostic trouble code. The ECM stores this code in memory and turns on the truck's Check Engine light. After you've retrieved that trouble code, performed the correlating troubleshooting to locate the problem and made the necessary repairs, you need to reset the ECM to turn off the Check Engine light. Anyone with basic auto-repair knowledge can reset the ECM on a '92 Chevy truck.
Step 1
Climb into the truck's driver seat. Plug the scan tool's data cable into the truck's diagnostic port, which is located under the dashboard next to the steering column.
Step 2
Turn the Chevy's ignition key to the run position, but don't start the engine.
Step 3
Follow the scan tool's specific operating instructions to run a quick test on the 1992 Chevy Truck's ECM.
Step 4
Erase the trouble codes when the scan tool prompts you to do so. Complete the test according to the scan tool's specific operating instructions, and unplug the data cable from the port.
Step 5
Turn the ignition key to off.
References
Tips
- Scan tools come in a wide variety of brands, shapes, sizes and abilities. Some scan tools are nothing more than basic code-readers while others are complex diagnostic computers. You can purchase a scan tool through your local auto parts retailer or professional tool vendor. Make sure the scan tool you decide on works with 1992 General Motors software.
Things You'll Need
- Diagnostic scan tool
- Ignition key
Warnings
- Failure to fix the problem before resetting the ECM will cause the Check Engine light to illuminate again, and may cause issues with the ECM's ability to diagnose future problems.
Writer Bio
Allen Moore's career includes awards in poetry and creative fiction, published lyrics, fiction books and nonfiction articles as well as a master certification in automotive service from the Ford Motor Company. Moore is a contributing writer for RF365.com and various other websites, a ghostwriter for Rainbow Writing and has over a dozen works of fiction currently in print.
