How to Reset Service Engine Soon Light on Mitsubishi Outlander: 4 Easy Methods

If you own a Mitsubishi Outlander, you might have encountered the dreaded “Service Engine Soon” light on your dashboard. Don’t worry; it’s a common occurrence and usually not a reason to panic. The service engine light is a warning that something in your vehicle needs attention. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through four easy and effective ways to reset the service engine soon light on your Mitsubishi Outlander. Follow these steps, and you’ll be back on the road worry-free!

Method 1: Check Your Gas Cap Believe it or not, a loose or faulty gas cap can trigger the service engine soon light. The fuel system in your Outlander relies on a properly sealed gas cap to maintain pressure. If it’s not tightly secured, it can cause an emission system error. To reset the light:

1. Park your car and turn off the engine.
2. Open the gas cap compartment and remove the cap.
3. Carefully inspect the cap for any cracks or damages.
4. If everything looks good, reattach the cap firmly until you hear a clicking sound.
5. Start your Outlander; the light should reset after a few driving cycles.

Method 2: Perform a Battery Disconnect Resetting the service engine soon light through a battery disconnect is a common DIY method. However, exercise caution while handling the battery to avoid any accidents. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Turn off your car and remove the key from the ignition.
2. Locate the negative terminal of your battery (usually black) and the positive terminal (usually red).
3. Using a wrench or pliers, loosen the nut on the negative terminal.
4. Carefully remove the negative cable from the battery and wait for 15-20 minutes.
5. Reconnect the negative cable to the battery and tighten the nut securely.
6. Turn on your Outlander; the service engine soon light should be gone.

Method 3: Use an OBD-II Scanner An OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner is a valuable tool to diagnose and reset the service engine light. Many auto parts stores offer free scans, or you can invest in your own scanner. Follow these steps:

1. Locate the OBD-II port in your Outlander, typically found beneath the dashboard on the driver’s side.
2. Plug the scanner into the port.
3. Turn your ignition to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
4. Follow the scanner’s instructions to read and clear the trouble codes.
5. Once the codes are cleared, the service engine soon light should go off.

Method 4: Drive and Idle Cycles Sometimes, your Mitsubishi Outlander needs to undergo several driving cycles before the service engine light resets. This method is ideal if you’ve recently fixed an issue or replaced a faulty component. Follow these steps:

1. Start your car and drive it for at least 10 minutes at varying speeds.
2. Park your vehicle and let it idle for another 10 minutes.
3. Repeat this process for a couple of days or over several drives.
4. If the issue has been resolved, the service engine soon light should reset on its own.

Mitsubishi Outlander Service Light Reset Video

FAQs:

Q1: Can I ignore the service engine soon light if my car seems to be running fine? A1: It’s not recommended to ignore the service engine soon light. While your car may appear to function normally, the light indicates an underlying issue that could worsen over time. Addressing it promptly can prevent costly repairs down the line.

Q2: Will disconnecting the battery reset all the settings in my Outlander? A2: Disconnecting the battery might reset some settings, such as radio presets, but it won’t cause any major problems. However, it’s always a good idea to have your radio code handy to reprogram it if needed.

Q3: How often does the service engine soon light come on for routine maintenance? A3: The service engine soon light typically comes on for maintenance-related issues like a regular oil change or scheduled service. Refer to your Mitsubishi Outlander’s manual for specific maintenance intervals.

Q4: Can a faulty sensor trigger the service engine light? A4: Yes, a faulty sensor can trigger the service engine light. Sensors like the oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, or temperature sensor can send inaccurate data to your Outlander’s computer, prompting the light to illuminate.

Q5: Will aftermarket modifications cause the service engine light to turn on? A5: Yes, certain aftermarket modifications, like performance chips or exhaust systems, can interfere with your Outlander’s emissions system, leading to the service engine light coming on. Ensure that any modifications are compatible with your vehicle’s systems.