Reset a Ford Computer
The on-board diagnostic computer on your Ford vehicle generates and stores error codes. Your car's computer may generate these error codes during a vehicle component malfunction or failure, or simply when your vehicle requires regular maintenance. After you have fixed the vehicle component that has failed or malfunctioned, or you have performed the required maintenance, you'll need to reset the vehicle's computer. To do this, you need a special tool, called an onboard diagnostic tool, or OBD tool. This tool will allow you to reset the onboard diagnostic computer and clear all of the error codes it has generated.
Instructions
1. Locate the OBD port on your Ford vehicle, normally located to the left of your Ford's in-cabin fuse panel. You may need to pull down on the fuse panel cover and remove it to see the open access port-the only port large enough to accept the OBD plug.
2. Plug the electrical connector from the OBD tool into the open access port.
3. Turn the vehicle's ignition key to the "II" position on the ignition switch and lock assembly.
4. Wait for the error codes to clear. When the "Check Engine" light goes out, the codes and the computer will both reset.
