How to Reset a Check Engine Light on the RAM 1500

Your RAM 1500 comes with a variety of helpful dashboard lights and symbols to either keep you informed (e.g. headlights on, door open, trunk open) or let you know if there’s an issue (e.g. low oil, low gasoline, check engine). The check engine light is one of the most important, since–as the name suggests–it illuminates when you need to fix a problem with your engine.

However, it’s sometimes the case that the light illuminates by accident, or remains on even after the driver has fixed the engine. If you’re having issues with your RAM 1500 check engine light, check out the following guide from the DeYarman Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM service team!

If There Is a Problem, Have It Resolved

First, and most importantly, you’ll want to make sure you get to the root of the check engine light being illuminated. It’s rare that the light illuminates by accident, so it’s important that you take care of any problems that arise with your engine as soon as possible. If you leave the engine unattended when there’s a problem, it can put you and your vehicle in danger on the Pella roads. Go ahead and schedule an appointment with our service team so we can diagnose and fix the problem.

Check Your Gas Cap

Sometimes the check engine light can be illuminated due to a loose or cracked gas cap. If the gas cap is loose, it can cause fumes to release, which triggers the vehicle’s check engine light. Fortunately, this is a quick fix! Just pull over and park your RAM 1500, then remove the gas cap fully and put it back on. This should cause the check engine light to turn off. If it doesn’t, follow the instructions below to reset the light.

How to Reset the Check Engine Light on the RAM 1500

If your engine is working properly and your gas cap isn’t loose or cracked, you’ll need to reset your RAM 1500’s check engine light manually. Like replacing the gas cap, this is a simple fix and you can perform it right from your garage! Just follow these steps: 

1. Turn off the ignition and put on safety glasses and gloves
2. Locate the negative terminal. Usually, it has a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. For reference, the positive cap is red and will have a positive (+) symbol.
3. Loosen the nut on the negative terminal with a wrench, then pull the negative connector from the battery. Keep it to the side for 30 – 60 seconds.
4. Reconnect the negative cable and tighten it back up with your wrench.

Keep in mind that disconnecting the battery may cause your RAM 1500 Uconnect infotainment system to reset.

Visit the DeYarman Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Service Center for Additional Help

If you’d prefer to have your RAM 1500 check engine light inspected by one of our professionals, you can either contact our office to schedule an appointment or set one up via our website. We’ll take it from there and safely get you back on the streets of Indianola and SE Des Moines in no time! 

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