How Do I Reset the Check Engine Light on my RAM 1500?

Resetting the RAM 1500 check engine light is easy enough, dealing with why it was on is potentially a larger problem. RAM 1500 drivers who need help, whether it’s a little advice or service and maintenance, should reach out to the trained professionals at the Bayway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram service center!

But first thing’s first, here’s how to reset a RAM 1500 check engine light:

1. Disconnect the negative cable from your battery
2. Wait 20 minutes
3. Reconnect the negative cable

This trick resets the computer inside your RAM 1500. On some model years, you’ll have to drive your RAM 1500 for up to 50 miles to re-calibrate the computer. Also, disconnecting the battery will likely reset not just your check-engine light, but also the security system and other electronic systems.

And, again, it’s one thing to reset the light, and it’s an entirely different thing to find the source of your problem. Hopefully this Bayway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram guide can help keep your RAM pickup truck running smoothly on Pearland and Sugar Land roads.

Why is My Check Engine Light On?

If you’re wondering, “Why is my check engine light on?” you’ll find that there are many possible answers. For example, the problem could be as simple as your gas cap being loose and as confusing as having a faulty solenoid. When the check engine light on your RAM 1500 has been activated, you should take these steps to determine what is going on:

1. Make Sure it’s the Check Engine Light: Modern vehicles have various warning lights, so as obvious as this advice seems, it’s important to make sure the right warning light is on. You’d be surprised how easy it is to mistake the Service Required light, for example, for the Check Engine light. As always, your RAM owner’s manual should have a guide that identifies each warning light.
2. Check Your Gas Cap: The most common reason the check engine light comes on? The gas cap. Remove your gas cap, which might be loose, and carefully replace it. Ensure that it is seated correctly. Then disconnect the battery, as described above, reconnect it, and the check engine light will hopefully turn off.
3. Check the Codes: The sophisticated RAM 1500 can actually pinpoint the precise problem, communicating them with a variety of error codes. To retrieve the codes, you’ll need an automotive diagnostic scanner. Also, automotive diagnostic scanners can usually reset the check engine light, and they can do so without resetting the other features connected to the electrical system. If you’re comfortable with the DIY approach, you can purchase a code reader and take care of the problem yourself. With that said, our service center experts are happy to help local Houston and Humble area drivers!

Rely on the RAM Service Experts at Bayway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

At Bayway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Rams, our service department uses only genuine Mopar® parts to ensure a perfect fit and longevity in your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM vehicle. Reach out to our parts center if you need advice, and take advantage of our parts and service specials to ensure you save the most money possible. Want to learn more about the RAM 1500? Read our guide on why the RAM 1500 has extraordinary gas mileage! You can also learn what the TPMS light on your dashboard means (hint: it has to do with your tire pressure)!