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how to reset the check engine light in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019) - Ford Explorer
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Fifth Generation (2011-2019)/how to reset the check engine light in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

how to reset the check engine light in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes
15-30 minutes
Time
easy
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
3 min read
421 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to reset the check engine light on Ford Explorer (2011-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and tools required.

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
15-30 minutes

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

  • •Ensure the vehicle is in park and on a flat surface
  • •Turn off the ignition before starting work
  • •Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to prevent short circuits

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Vehicle may exhibit no noticeable symptoms if the underlying issue has been resolved
  • •Potential error codes stored in the vehicle’s computer system

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

Solution

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Socket set

Parts Required

  • •None required for the reset process

Additional Information

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
15-30 minutes
Difficulty
easy
Severity
medium
Tools Required
2 items
Parts Required
1 item

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Solution
1. Preparation
  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, socket set.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is in park and on a flat surface. Turn off the ignition before starting work.
2. Using an OBD-II Scanner
  1. Locate the OBD-II port under the dashboard, usually near the steering column.
  2. Plug the OBD-II scanner into the port.
  3. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
  4. Follow the scanner's prompts to read and clear the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  5. Select the option to clear or reset the codes, which will also reset the check engine light.
3. Disconnecting the Battery (Alternative Method)
  1. Open the hood and locate the battery.
  2. Using a socket set, carefully remove the negative terminal (typically marked with a minus sign).
  3. Leave the terminal disconnected for at least 5 minutes to ensure the vehicle's computer resets.
  4. Reconnect the negative terminal and ensure it is tight.
  5. Close the hood and start the vehicle to confirm the check engine light is off.