Almost all of today’s modern automobiles rely on computer processors to run safely and efficiently. This trend began as government emission standards became stricter. Consequently, manufacturers turned to computers to comply. Unfortunately, sometimes these electronics develop glitches and you may be researching how to reset car computer. Although, don’t be too tempted to reset your car computer on your own. Before you do, let a qualified mechanic examine your car.

The Importance Of Computers In Today’s Vehicles

Depending on your car’s manufacturer you could have as many as 50 computer systems in your car. Moreover, as technology improves, automakers increasingly depend on sophisticated circuitry to run many car functions. Furthermore, the inclusion of automotive computer processors has transformed vehicles in 5 important ways:

1. Emissions

Most of the cars on the road rely on gas combustion for power. In the engine, gas ignites to produce power to move your car. Unfortunately, the byproducts of this process contribute to air pollution.

To control emissions, automakers created new technology to keep auto pollution as low as possible. Many of these advanced components require automotive computer processors to run them.

2. Safety Features

Today’s modern vehicles have a multitude of safety features controlled by computers. Some modern driver assistance technologies include collision detectors, automatic braking, lane departure, and blind spot warning systems.

3. Advanced Diagnostic Testing

Often, a problem in a car can be one of several components. Years ago, it could be difficult to pinpoint the exact issue. However, your car’s computer system collects data and produces codes to help locate the problem. Your auto mechanic can simply hook your car to a diagnostic tool and retrieve a code from your car’s computer.

4. Improved Fuel Economy

Optimal fuel efficiency requires the proper mix of fuel and air. Normally, old engines couldn’t regulate combustion as accurately as modern components. However, your car’s computer system can measure and spray the exact amount of fuel for complete combustion into each cylinder.

5. Information And Entertainment

Gone are the days when your only entertainment while riding in the car was the radio. Automakers now equip cars with DVD players, navigation systems, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. Furthermore, many manufacturers have turned to the touchscreen to control most of your car’s functions for simplicity.

Glitches In The System

Automotive computer processors are wonderful things when they work correctly. However, as we all know, computers can develop glitches or errors causing a malfunction.

Car computers rely heavily on sensors to collect and relay information. Plus, your car has thousands of feet of wiring. Temperature fluctuations can cause both components to fail. Moisture is another enemy of electronic components.

Failing components can cause your check engine light to illuminate. Moreover, you can develop a problem in your operating system just like your home computer.

Should You Even Be Thinking About How To Reset Car Computer?

As more of your car’s systems are controlled by computers, you may notice malfunctions of previously mechanically controlled functions. A frozen touch screen, uncomfortable interior climate, or malfunctioning audio output can be the result of a computer glitch.

To fix the problem, some car owners will disconnect their car battery terminal for a few minutes. This action will reset their computers back to factory settings. Not only are your preset controls lost, but the memory of your car’s ideal fuel/air mix.

Generally, modern car computer systems have something called adaptive learning. As your car’s sensors pick up information about your driving habits, your computer automatically adjusts your vehicle’s systems. In doing so, your automobile’s computer boosts fuel economy, reduces wear on components, and improves your driving experience. However, when you reset your automotive computer processors, all this information is lost.

Moreover, resetting your car’s computer may not even fix the issue with your car. Faulty sensors or failing wiring cannot be fixed by simply disconnecting the battery.

How To Reset Car Computer – FAQs

How to reset car computer is a frequently researched question. But is it wise to perform this action? Below we answer a few frequently asked questions about your computer system.

How Much Will A Diagnostic Cost?

Typically, a diagnostic test is very affordable. However, the cost of the fix can vary greatly. When you bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville, we’ll explain the results of your test. Moreover, we’ll discuss the extent and the cost of any necessary repairs before we begin working on your car.

Will Replacing My Car’s Battery Reset My Computer?

Unfortunately, replacing your battery will reset your computer. Thus, following a battery replacement, you may notice your car running a bit differently. However, your car’s computer system immediately begins to make adjustments based on your driving habits.

What Kinds Of Automotive Repairs Can You Do?

Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville is a full-service automotive repair shop servicing both foreign and domestic vehicles. Our ASE-certified mechanics take care of all your vehicle maintenance and servicing:

• Interior heating/cooling systems
• Oil changes
• Tune-up
• Brakes
• Wheel alignment
• Computer diagnostic testing
• Fuel system cleaning
• Flat tire repair
• Cooling system flush
• State inspections
• Car wash/detailing
• And more!

Do You Offer Gift Cards?

We do! You can purchase gift cards in any amount up to $100. These make great gifts for the holidays, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and other special occasions. Moreover, your recipient can use our gift cards towards car washes.

You can beat the upcoming holiday rush and buy a gift card today! Just stop by our location at 725 Hwy 66 South Kernersville. We’re open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM and on Saturday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.