Don't Let a Faulty ECM spoil your driving fun - Here's how to reset it!
Each time you start your car, it’s doing more than making sure the battery has enough juice to power the ignition system and the fuel system gets filled up with the proper amount of gas. It’s also retrieving data from its engine control module (ECM) and making adjustments based on what it learns from that data every time you drive. But what if one day you realize your car isn’t performing like it used to? Fortunately, that’s something you can fix by reset engine control module – all you need is 15 minutes of uninterrupted driving time and a screwdriver!
What is an ECM?
The engine control module (ECM) is an electronic device that controls the powertrain and emissions systems of your vehicle. It has two primary functions: to adjust the way other modules perform, and to store long term data within its term memory. As you drive, the engine computers are continuously working and will learn about the way you drive your vehicle, adjusting accordingly with time. The ECM also stores any fault codes or diagnostic trouble codes that may have popped up as well as data on how the engine is running.
If you find yourself in need of an ECM reset, be sure to consult with a professional who can help guide you through this process so that there is no risk of damaging your car’s computer system in the process.
What does an ECM do?
The Engine Control Module or ECM is an important part of your vehicle. It’s job is in part to store long term data within its term memory. As you drive, the engine computers are continuously working to learn about the way you drive and will adjust the way other modules perform. One of the most common problems with an ECM is that it can be hard to reset after being incorrectly set by a fault signal from another module.
One key way to diagnose this problem is if one or more of the warning lights on your dashboard are lit up (such as Check Engine Light). When this happens, you need to find out what’s causing the light and then resetting the engine control module so that everything returns back to normal.
How to tell if your ECM is faulty
If you’ve been experiencing problems with your vehicle and want to know how to reset the powertrain control module, follow these steps. First, turn off the engine. Next, disconnect and reconnect the battery cables (in most cases one or two in order). Finally, start up the engine and see if the problem persists. If it does not, then you should be good to go!
How to reset your ECM
How do you Reset an Engine Control Module?
- Press and hold the brake and accelerator pedal.
- Turn the ignition key on, but don't start the engine.
- Keep holding both pedals until you see the powertrain control module (PCM) message display on the dashboard.
How to Reset Powertrain Control Module?
- Shut off your truck and wait 10 seconds.
- Start up the engine, put it in neutral and then park it in a safe spot.
- Wait 10 more seconds before shutting off the engine again.
