New York veteran mechanic says there’s one thing you can do to your car to ‘reset’ it and fix it for free
- New York-based veteran mechanic suggests how to do a car reset
- It’s about clearing error codes to restore optimal performance
- It’s called the ‘battery disconnection method’
Published on Feb 13, 2025 at 6:56 PM (UTC+4)
by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
Last updated on Feb 13, 2025 at 6:56 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
It turns out that what that guy from IT suggested to fix your computer could also work for your car as a New York-based veteran mechanic suggests how to complete a car reset.
It’s all down to clearing error codes and restoring optimal performance.
It’s called the ‘battery disconnection method’ – in other words turning it on and off again.
It might just save you a lot of time and money.
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Mechanic-recommended car reset
Scotty Kilmer has been an auto mechanic for 56 years and he shares his extensive knowledge of all things automotive via the most-watched car channel in America.
He explains that doing this one step will effect a total car reset and fix it for free.
In fact, he claims that it will make it run ‘like new’.
The ‘battery disconnection method’ is simple.
It involves disconnecting the car battery by removing the negative terminal for a few minutes to reset the vehicle’s computer systems to resolve minor electronic glitches.
Resetting the Engine Control Unit (ECU) can clear error codes and restore optimal performance.
It can even turn off the check engine light if the issue is temporary.
How does it work?
Turns out that some cars store driving habits in the transmission control module and resetting it can improve their shifting behavior.
He advises doing a throttle recalibration afterward by turning the ignition to the ‘on’ position without starting the engine.
Next, press the accelerator pedal fully to the floor, before releasing it.
Another tip is to inspect the engine bay for any loose or disconnected hoses or electrical connectors, which could lead to performance issues and car malfunctions.
After disconnecting the battery, some cars may need the window positions to be relearned and radio presets to be reprogrammed.
Alternatively, using diagnostic tools like OBD-II scanners can help identify and clear specific error codes to DIY troubleshoot minus costly professional help.
London-based Amelia cut her journalistic teeth covering all things lifestyle, wellness, and luxury in the UK capital. Fast-forward a decade and the senior content writer and editor has put pen to paper for glossy magazines, busy newsrooms, and coveted brands. When her OOO is on from writing about cars and heading up on-site SEO you can find her spending quality time with her young family, in the gym, or exploring the city she loves.
