10/13/2025
Just an FYI
When you clear a check engine light (CEL) on a 1996 or newer vehicle it also clears the memory and the vehicle will not pass a smog check until you perform at least 2 drive cycles to get your memory back. Also on 2009 or newer vehicles it also sets a permanent code. To get rid of the permanent code, after the drive cycles are complete you have to make 15 trips of at least 20 miles with a temperature rise of at least 45°. During those trips you have to drive at least 200 miles.
I recommend after repair of the fault that caused the CEL, do not clear the code. Instead, complete a drive cycle and if the repair is successful the computer will turn the light off and your memory will stay intact and you won't get a permanent code.
To do a drive cycle go to Google and type in 'drive cycle OBD2 monitors, year,make,model. This will give you step by step instructions how to drive the vehicle to get the memory back.
