Check engine light

[bruce941]

Have a 1996 Century with about 63,000 miles on it. If I don't crank it long enough (about a second or two) and it doesn't start, then, when I restart it the ECM is thrown with a rich code (of course, raw fuel was in the cylinders). It runs fine after running for about fifteen seconds - until the raw fuel gets out, however, once the code is thrown I can't get it to go away without begging my local mechanice to reset it.

Like I said, sometimes I get in a hurry and don't crank this car quiet long enough. I've tried disconnecting the battery (even all night), etc. but can't reset it.

Is there some trick to resetting the code so the check engine light goes out? Right now it's holding a misfire code in memory (as it should), however, all emmission controls are working properly.

Thanks.

[public]

Not on a 96. A lot of autoparts stores will do it for you. You can get a Actron code reader that will do it at Autozone for $150.

[bruce941]

Originally Posted by public

Not on a 96. A lot of autoparts stores will do it for you. You can get a Actron code reader that will do it at Autozone for $150.

That's what I was afraid of. I just get in a hurry and don't crank it long enough and now it won't shut down that CEL. Oh well - the steering wheel blocks the view most of the time.

When I get the fuel filter changed I'll my local mechanic clear it.

If there was a device for a lot less I might get it, esp. if it could check other vehicles, but $150 is way too much money to spend for a rarely used piece of equipment.

Thanks again for your help.