HOw to reset computer?

Mar 22, 2006 13 Replies

I have a 1999 VW Beetle. Engine light came on. I think it was a vacuum leak, so I fixed the line, disconnected the battery, reconnected, but the light stays on.



How do I reset the computer? Do I have to take it in the shop to reset or is there a trick to resetting it at home?



Thanks Bob



99 Beetle
04 Jetta

if it was the vac line, the car will evaluate it for a while and reset it itself if it thinks the problem is fixed.

if that wasn't the real trigger of the error code, you'll still get the light.

you can only reset it at home with a VAG-COM.

If you indeed fixed the issue then it will go out in a week or less.

Thanks for the info.

I am looking at the Actron OBD II Scanner CP9135. I have been wanting one. This one says it reads European cars and will reset the computer. Anyone have an experience with this?

Bob

I have one, and it works well. It will erase the codes, and shut off the "check engine" light.

Now, whether there's a difference between "erasing the codes" and "resetting the computer," that's an open question.

The only way to go is with the rosstech VAG-COM, that way you can also check other systems such as ABS, airbag, trans, etc.

From the Actron tech support:

It clears trouble codes. It doesn't erase actual fuel maps, timing curves, etc. Thanks, Vic Ellinger Actron Tech Support

1-800-ACTRON-7

You need a tool to get in the computer. Do a web search for VAG-COM. The firt time you buy, it will be about the same as a dealer service visit. If you're in the San Diego area, I can do it for you for free.

-Mike

I would also apriciate knowing how to reset the computer, Ive been having some different problems and when I disconect ther bat. nothing changes, it dosent even reset my radio stations.

-Kirk- snipped-for-privacy@gmail.com wrote:

Thanks for the offer Mike. I am in Texas; however, after driving the car for a week, the light finally went out on its own.

The guys here at my Autozone don't know crap. I called them and asked if they can reset it with their code reader and they said no. I know they can, but they don't know how to use it I guess.

I saw the license for the VAG-COM software is $99, if I priced it correctly, but the cables were over $200. Am I wrong?

After a few times of having that light come on and diagnosing the problems. That $200+ vag-com tool will pay for itself! ;-)

Don't settle for the "clones" while trying to save a few dollars! Get the real thing that can handle the latest software and you can easily resell if needed! Oh and you have TWO VWs................you need a vag-com! lol

JMHO later, dave (One out of many daves)

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Just go to Autozone and borrow there scanner and reset the code. Almost all ODB2 scanners will reset the service codes. If the light fails to go off then you might want to scan for the codes. There is a list on

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You can buy the service manual or pay a small fee to use the site.. If you have a laptop you can get the Vag-com software and a cable. The cheap way is just borrow a hand held scaner at Autozone to reset the code...

The software is free and you can buy the cable on Ebay for cheap.

later...

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