How do you reset the check engine light for my 1997 Honda Accord? My catalac convertor is bad and I don't have the money to replace, but I need to get it inspected. I was told I could reset the lights so it can pass.

Resetting your check engine light will not let it pass most inspections. If you are in a state that plugs into the OBD II port on the car it will not pass. 96 and newer cars have monitors. Monitors are self test that the computer does to determine if anything is wrong. If the check engine light is cleared it will also reset the monitors to read "not complete". An uncompleted monitor will also fail the inspection. If you are willing to try a auto parts store may be able to clear the code and you can see if it will work.

Even if you reset it you will still fail the test because the emissions monitor testing will not be complete. Once the monitors are complete the check engine light will turn on because the cat is bad. Its a catch 22.

If its just a safety inspection you may be able to get away with resetting the light. You can try disconnecting the battery for about a minute. or you can remove the back-up radio(clock) fuse from the under hood fuse block for about 30 seconds.

If you live in the continental US and your catalytic converter is bad your vehicle is not eligible to be licensed for on road use per Federal Emissions Laws.

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