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Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT 2005-2014: How to Reset Check Engine Light

Learn how to reset the Check Engine Light with the help of this article.

By Jerry Perez - October 12, 2015

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT (2005-2014).

Your Mustang is built with many systems that are designed to make it work smoothly and effortlessly, but if something were to fail and need your attention, there is a specific light for it on your dash. The Check Engine Light or CEL light is known to cover a wide range of possible malfunctions that could happen to your beloved Pony car. It could be something as simple as the gas cap being loose, or something as series as a vital sensor malfunction. Follow this guide to learn how to reset your CEL light after performing a repair.

Material Needed

  • 10mm wrench

Step 1 – Tighten gas cap

Most people would think that it is the fact that the gas cap is loose that makes the CEL come on, but it isn't. The gas cap creates a seal that allows gas vapors to remain in the overfill tube and evaporator, and if the gas cap isn't locked properly, the fumes will escape and the system will detect a "leak," therefore making the CEL turn on. Follow these steps:

  • Make sure the key is off the ignition.
  • Position the gas cap properly on the threads.
  • Turn cap a minimum of 3 to 4 clicks until it locks properly.
  • Turn engine on.
Figure 1. Make sure to properly lock gas cap.

Pro Tip

Always make sure to shut engine off and remove the key from the ignition while pumping gas, as this could make the CEL turn on as well.

Step 2 – Disconnect battery

The safest method to reset the CEL (if the gas cap method doesn't work) is to disconnect the battery and power cycle the electrical system. Follow these steps to perform this simple fix:

  • Make sure the key is off the ignition.
  • Open the hood.
  • Use the 10mm wrench to disconnect the negative (black) terminal first.
  • Use the 10mm wrench to disconnect the positive (red) terminal second.
  • Wait 30 seconds.
  • Reconnect the battery in the same order as they were disconnected.
  • Start the ignition.
Figure 2. Disconnect battery to reset CEL.

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