Modern cars have sensors and warning signals about all sorts of different systems in the vehicle. If you notice that your service emission system light is on, you should address that problem. You will release a larger than allowed level of emissions into the air. Not to mention that you will not be able to pass the emission test.
How can you clear the service emissions system light? You can continue to drive your car for a couple of days, and the system error might go away. You can use the OBD II scanner to find the error and delete it. But the best way is to inspect the exhaust system and check for any problems. When you get the results, you can act from there.
Clearing the emission control system is necessary for two reasons. You will not pass the emission test. You will pollute more. These problems need to be addressed as soon as possible.
Reasons for Service Emission System Warning
The emission system is an important element of every car. Today, the emission norms are very strict, and maintaining this system is essential. Without a fully working emission system, your car will not be functional. Pay attention to these problems, and resolve them as soon as possible.
Common Causes of the Warning Light
The service emission system has several important parts. If any of those components are not working properly that can cause an error message to go on. If you have this error message, these can be the culprits:
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Worn catalytic converter
- Leak on the EGR valve
- Leak on the exhaust manifold
- Dirty and clogged air filter
Diagnostic Tools for Identifying the Issue
If the dashboard light is glowing persistently, you can try to identify the problem with the OBD II scanner. The OBD II scanner is a tool that is connected to the car computer and can read code errors. This scanner is great for troubleshooting problems with different vehicle systems.
The connector for the scanner is usually under the dashboard. It is sometimes on the driver, or on the passenger’s side. Connect the scanner, and let it run diagnostics. It will detect different faults and codes.
There are 4 diagnostic trouble codes that are connected to the exhaust pipe and emissions systems:
- P0130-P0167. These codes point to the problem with the oxygen sensor
- P0420-P0439. These are directly connected to the catalytic converter and its malfunction
- P0400-P0409. This group of fault codes is listed as problems with the EGR
- P0440-P0459. The source of these errors is often a loose gas cap.
These codes are a common cause for the emission system service warning to go on.
Check Out Fix Annoying Emissions Codes (CHEAP):
How to Clear Service Emission System
If the OBD II scanner detects a problem with the emission system, the best thing to do is to fix it. Other temporary measures will not solve the issue. They will merely turn off the service emission system and the check engine light.
Steps for Clearing the Warning Light
Sometimes the system will diagnose a false positive problem with the emission system. It will turn on the service emission system message either way. There are a couple of methods that can help you in those cases.
Methods for Resetting the System
You can continue to drive normally for around 30 minutes. If there was a slight electrical malfunction, it may go away.
If that doesn’t help you can try turning off and on the car three times. That gives an option for the system to restart, clear any minor problems and turn off the emission light.
The last chance is to disconnect the positive cable from the battery. Turn the ignition system off, and raise the hood. Use a wrench to disconnect the positive cable from the battery. Leave it like that for at least 30 minutes. Reconnect the battery and start the car.
Pro Tip: If these methods don’t fix the faulty light, you may have a more serious problem with the emission system. Have it checked by a professional.
Preventative Measures
Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent most emission system problems. Stop-and-go traffic is a frequent cause of problems for this system. It can clog it up and reduce the effectiveness of the catalytic converter. Driving on highways helps keep the emission system clean.
Best Practices for Avoiding Service Emission System Issues
An experienced mechanic knows that other parts should be tested. Sometimes the problem is in old and worn spark plugs and their wiring. If there is physical damage to the plugs, that can point to a problem with the emission system.
Wiring is often forgotten, but replacing the plugs is sometimes not enough. Bad wiring can cause problems to the emission systems in the future.
Also, it is worth mentioning frequent problems with the gas cap. A loose rubber seal will signal a problem with the service emission system.
Regular Maintenance and Check-Ups to Prevent Future Issues
Regular visits to the mechanic can help you to reduce problems that will eventually lead to a glowing emission system light. Routine vehicle maintenance will go a long way in avoiding this problem, and you should not have a problem with the check emission system warning signal.
When to Seek Professional Help
If the problem grows too big for you to resolve, fix it with a professional mechanic. Even if you are an enthusiast for car mechanics, there are limits that you can go to. You can also try finding advice in the car community, but it may not be enough.
Situations When Professional Assistance May be Necessary
Sometimes the components are just not working properly. Then the easiest method is to diagnose the problem and find replacement parts. The mechanic can use the OBD II scanner to find all the issues. That way, he can know exactly what he is dealing with.
Recommended Repair Shops and Services
Finding a good service center can be hard, so we will mention a couple of reliable repair shops.
- Precision Tune Auto Care – Besides diagnosing and fixing all the problems with emission systems, they offer an around car service
- Wrench -These mechanics will offer roadside assistance. They are also maintaining a large fleeting service
- BA Auto Care – If you live in Maryland, you should visit this auto repair. Besides resolving problems with the service emission system, they also service hybrid and electric cars.
How To Clear Service Emission System: FAQs
Can I Drive with a Problem with My Emissions?
Yes, you can. But if there is a problem with the catalytic converter or an oxygen sensor, it will only grow bigger. You should check the emission system regularly so you can keep these problems to a minimum. A build-up in the catalytic converter will continue to grow. Other components will also impact the performance in the long run.
You should know that the service emission warning light will not go off by itself. Resolve the service emission light issue as soon as possible.
Final Considerations
Service emission systems may not seem to be a big problem. It doesn’t affect the performance of the car right away. That will comfort you, but you should check the emission system regularly. Every state has strict laws about releasing bad emissions into the air. If the system fails, it will not get a green light on the tests.
Problems with the emission system are usually complicated. We recommend contacting the mechanic. The repair price depends on the problem. The oxygen sensor can cost between $20 and $100. A new catalytic converter is much pricier. It can go between $100 and several thousand dollars. These are the best reasons to keep your emission system checked.
