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

Need to reset the check engine light in your Ram 1500? It’s easy as one-two-three:

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

Disconnecting the battery is a hard reboot which will reset the truck’s computer. Some older Ram 1500 models will need to be driven the truck for about 50 miles after reconnecting the battery in order for the computer to properly re-calibrate.

Be aware that when you disconnect the battery it will not only reset the computer, but most often will also reset the security system and other electronic systems inside the vehicle.

While resetting the check engine light on a Ram 1500 is pretty easy and straight-forward, it’s important that you determine what caused the light to come on in the first place. Learn more about your Ram 1500 check engine light from the experts at Badger Truck & Auto Group.

All-New 2019 Ram 1500 Instrument Cluster

Why is My Check Engine Light On?

There are a variety of reasons why the check engine light turns on, from simple things like not having the gas cap secured correctly, to more complex problems like a malfunctioning solenoid. It’s important that you find out exactly what the issue is, as many of the things that trigger the check engine light can lead to serious engine damage and a costly repair bill. Here’s a checklist that can help you locate the problem:

  1. Is it the Check Engine Light?: It can be easy to mistake one of the other built-in warning lights for the Check Engine light. You’ll find a guide that identifies all of the warning lights in your Ram owner’s manual.
  2. Check the Gas Cap: A gas cap that hasn’t been tightly secured is one of the most common things that trigger the check engine light. Remove the gas cap, and 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. Check the Codes: Error codes generated by the truck’s computer indicate exactly what is causing the engine light to appear. You can retrieve the error codes with an automotive diagnostic scanner. Many diagnostic scanners can also clear the code and turn off the warning light. Code scanners can be purchased at most Chicago area auto parts stores, but if you prefer to have a professional take care of this for you, stop by the service center at Badger Truck & Auto Group.

Rely on the Service Experts at Badger Truck & Auto Group

If you’re having problems with your Ram check engine light, or are in need of any commercial truck maintenance service in the Madison or Waukesha area, the experts at Badger Truck & Auto Group are here to help. We want to make sure that you safely enjoy the robust performance and powerful towing capacity of your Ram 1500. Schedule a service appointment with us online today, and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.


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