Deleting Permanent OBD2 Codes: What You Need to Know

Deleting Permanent Obd2 Codes can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with car diagnostics. It’s important to understand that while you can clear these codes using an OBD2 scanner, it doesn’t necessarily mean the underlying problem is fixed.

Understanding Permanent OBD2 Codes

OBD2 codes are how your car communicates problems. When a sensor detects an issue, it triggers a specific code stored in the vehicle’s computer. There are two types of OBD2 codes:

Pending Codes: Indicate a potential problem that hasn’t been confirmed or is intermittent.
Permanent Codes: Set when a problem has been confirmed over multiple driving cycles. These codes remain stored even after clearing pending codes and usually require a repair to clear.

Clearing OBD2 Codes Using an OBD2 Scanner

Can You Delete Permanent OBD2 Codes?

Yes, you can delete permanent OBD2 codes using a scanner. However, simply erasing the codes doesn’t magically fix the underlying issue. Here’s why:

Codes are symptoms, not the problem: Think of OBD2 codes as a fever. Taking medicine might lower your temperature, but it doesn’t address the infection causing it. Similarly, deleting codes masks the symptom without resolving the root cause.
Codes can reappear: If you clear a permanent code without addressing the problem, it will likely reappear the next time the issue occurs or the car goes through a specific driving cycle.

When Should You Delete Permanent OBD2 Codes?

Deleting permanent OBD2 codes is appropriate in these scenarios:

After a repair: Once you’ve addressed the issue that triggered the code, you can clear it to confirm the repair was successful.
To reset monitors: Some codes prevent certain emission monitors from running. Clearing these codes allows the monitors to reset and complete their diagnostic cycles.

How to Delete Permanent OBD2 Codes

Note: While the process is generally similar, always refer to your specific scanner’s user manual for detailed instructions.

Connect the OBD2 scanner: Locate your car’s OBD2 port (usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side) and connect the scanner.
Turn on the ignition: Turn the key to the “on” position but don’t start the engine.
Access the “Read Codes” function: Navigate through the scanner’s menu to find the option to read stored codes.
Identify the permanent codes: The scanner will display a list of codes. Permanent codes might be labeled as “confirmed,” “active,” or “history.”
Select “Clear Codes” or “Erase Codes”: Find the appropriate option in your scanner’s menu to clear the identified codes.
Confirm the action: The scanner might ask for confirmation before proceeding. Ensure you want to clear the codes.
Disconnect the scanner: Once the process is complete, turn off the ignition and disconnect the scanner.

Check Engine Light Off After Deleting Codes

Important Considerations

Check engine light: Clearing codes will usually turn off the check engine light. However, it might take a few driving cycles for the light to stay off permanently if the problem hasn’t been addressed.
State inspections: In some states, clearing codes shortly before an emissions test can raise red flags. If the problem persists, the car will likely fail the inspection.