2002 Computer reset time for passing inspection

[J9adame]

I recently replaced my battery for a 2002 T-Bird and attempted to pass the state inspection. they mentioned that the car's computer needs to be reset. this requires driving at least 100 miles, some in the HWY for 15 min and regular driving. does any one know the specific requirements so the computer can re-set properly to pass inspection?

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[biddle]

Please include the model year in the subject in future posts. I added this for you.

 

[bobk250]

I recently replaced my battery for a 2002 T-Bird and attempted to pass the state inspection. they mentioned that the car's computer needs to be reset. this requires driving at least 100 miles, some in the HWY for 15 min and regular driving. does any one know the specific requirements so the computer can re-set properly to pass inspection?

When the battery dies the error messages related to the Emissions Test were cleared if there were any. They want to be sure you did not disconnect the battery to clear them just to pass the test. The testing equipment is designed to catch things like that.

 

[Gus Gutz]

I had my shop do the drive cycle on their Dyno. I drove round trip to San Diego and back twice, over 200 miles each way and it did not reset. I was told it would never reset because of an issue with the MAF sensor not reading correctly. It cost me 99 bucks but was week worth it. My obdII reader said nothing was wrong an it was good to go. I watched the codes come up on their machine so I know they were not ripping me off.

 

[davea]

The states have adopted readers that tell just how long it has been since the code was reset, the sole purpose is to defeat people that buy a OB2II scan tool, reset the error codes and then drive for another year with out repairing the emissions error code.

 

[biddle]

The states have adopted readers that tell just how long it has been since the code was reset, the sole purpose is to defeat people that buy a OB2II scan tool, reset the error codes and then drive for another year with out repairing the emissions error code.

So really the question would need to be asked to the emissions tester. Here is some interesting general information from Ford

Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle Description of OBDII Drive Cycle The following procedure is designed to execute and complete the OBDII monitors and to clear the Ford P1000, I/M readiness code. To complete a specific monitor for repair verification, follow steps 1 through 4, then continue with the step described by the appropriate monitor found under the "OBDII Monitor Exercised" column. When the ambient air temperature is outside 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F), or the altitude is above 2438 meters (8000 feet), the EVAP monitor will not run. If the P1000 code must be cleared in these conditions, the PCM must detect them once (twice on some applications) before the EVAP monitor can be "bypassed" and the P1000 cleared. The Evap "bypassing" procedure is described in the following drive cycle. The OBDII Drive Cycle will be performed using a scan tool. Consult the instruction manual for each described function. NOTE: A detailed description of a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reset is found in this section, refer to the table of contents. Drive Cycle Recommendations: Most OBDII monitors will complete more readily using a "steady foot" driving style during cruise or acceleration modes. Operating the throttle in a "smooth" fashion will minimize the time required for monitor completion. Fuel tank level should be between 1/2 and 3/4 fill with 3/4 fill being the most desirable. The Evaporative Monitor can only operate during the first 30 minutes of engine operation. When executing the procedure for this monitor, stay in part throttle mode and drive in a smooth fashion to minimize "fuel slosh". WARNING STRICT OBSERVANCE OF POSTED SPEED LIMITS AND ATTENTION TO DRIVING CONDITIONS ARE MANDATORY WHEN PROCEEDING THROUGH THE FOLLOWING DRIVE CYCLES. For best results, follow each of the following steps as accurately as possible:

OBDII Monitor Exercised​	Drive Cycle Procedure​	Purpose of Drive Cycle Procedure​
Drive Cycle Preparation​	1. Install scan tool. Turn key on with the engine off. Cycle key off, then on. Select appropriate Vehicle & Engine qualifier. Clear all DTC's/ Perform a PCM Reset.	Bypasses engine soak timer. Resets OBDII Monitor status.
​	2. Begin to monitor the following PIDs: ECT, EVAPDC, FLI (if available) and TP MODE. Start vehicle WITHOUT returning to Key Off.
​	3. Idle vehicle for 15 seconds. Drive at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) until ECT is at least 76.7°C (170° F).
Prep for Monitor Entry​	4. Is IAT within 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F)? If Not, complete the following steps but, note that step 14 will be required to "bypass " the Evap monitor and clear the P1000.	Engine warm-up and provide IAT input to the PCM.
HEGO​	5. Cruise at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) for up to 4 minutes.	Executes the HEGO monitor.
EVAP​	6. Cruise at 72 to 104 Km/h (45 to 65 MPH) for 10 minutes (avoid sharp turns and hills) Note, to initiate the monitor: TP MODE should =PT, EVAPDC must be >75%, and FLI must be between 15 and 85%	Executes the EVAP Monitor (If IAT is within 4.4 to 37.8° (40 to 100°F))
Catalyst​	7. Drive in stop and go traffic conditions. Include five different constant cruise speeds, ranging from 40 to 72 Km/h (25 to 45 MPH) over a 10 minute period.	Executes the Catalyst Monitor.
EGR​	8. From a stop, accelerate to 72 Km/h (45 MPH) at 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. Repeat 3 times.	Executes the EGR Monitor.
SEC AIR/CCM (Engine)​	9. Bring the vehicle to a stop. Idle with transmission in drive (neutral for M/T) for 2 minutes.	Executes the ISC portion of the CCM.
CCM (Trans)​	10. For M/T, accelerate from 0 to 80 Km/h (o to 50 MPH), continue to step 11. For A/T, from a stop and in overdrive, moderately accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. Stop vehicle and repeat without overdrive to 64 Km/h (40 MPH) cruising for at least 30 seconds. While at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) , activate overdrive and accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. Stop for at least 20 seconds and repeat step 10 five times.	Executes the transmission portion of the CCM.
Misfire & Fuel Monitors	11. From a stop, accelerate to 104 Km/h (65 MPH). Decelerate at closed throttle until 64 Km/h (40 MPH) (no brakes). Repeat this 3 times.	Allows learning for the misfire monitor.
Readiness Check	12. Access the ON-Board System Readiness (OBDII monitor status) function on the scan tool. Determine whether all non-continuous monitors have completed. If not, go to step 13.	Determines if any monitor has not completed.
Pending Code Check and Evap Monitor "Bypass" Check	13. With the scan tool, check for pending codes. Conduct normal repair procedures for any pending code concern. Otherwise, rerun any incomplete monitor. Note: if the EVAP monitor is not complete AND IAT was out of the 4.4 to 37.8° C (40 to 100° F) temperature range in step #4, or the altitude is over 2438 m. (8000 ft.), the Evap "bypass" procedure must be followed. Proceed to step 14.	Determines if a pending code is preventing the clearing of P1000.
Evap Monitor "Bypass"​	14. Park vehicle for a minimum of 8 hours. Repeat steps 2 through 12. DO NOT REPEAT STEP 1.	Allow the "bypass" counter to increment to two.

 

[davea]

I got caught in TN doing this, the station tester said "looks like you reset the computer 10 minutes ago" Busted. Leaky gas cap F150

 

[Bond007]

So really the question would need to be asked to the emissions tester. Here is some interesting general information from Ford

Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

​

Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle Description of OBDII Drive Cycle The following procedure is designed to execute and complete the OBDII monitors and to clear the Ford P1000, I/M readiness code. To complete a specific monitor for repair verification, follow steps 1 through 4, then continue with the step described by the appropriate monitor found under the "OBDII Monitor Exercised" column. When the ambient air temperature is outside 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F), or the altitude is above 2438 meters (8000 feet), the EVAP monitor will not run. If the P1000 code must be cleared in these conditions, the PCM must detect them once (twice on some applications) before the EVAP monitor can be "bypassed" and the P1000 cleared. The Evap "bypassing" procedure is described in the following drive cycle. The OBDII Drive Cycle will be performed using a scan tool. Consult the instruction manual for each described function. NOTE: A detailed description of a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reset is found in this section, refer to the table of contents. Drive Cycle Recommendations: Most OBDII monitors will complete more readily using a "steady foot" driving style during cruise or acceleration modes. Operating the throttle in a "smooth" fashion will minimize the time required for monitor completion. Fuel tank level should be between 1/2 and 3/4 fill with 3/4 fill being the most desirable. The Evaporative Monitor can only operate during the first 30 minutes of engine operation. When executing the procedure for this monitor, stay in part throttle mode and drive in a smooth fashion to minimize "fuel slosh". WARNING STRICT OBSERVANCE OF POSTED SPEED LIMITS AND ATTENTION TO DRIVING CONDITIONS ARE MANDATORY WHEN PROCEEDING THROUGH THE FOLLOWING DRIVE CYCLES. For best results, follow each of the following steps as accurately as possible:

​

OBDII Monitor Exercised​	Drive Cycle Procedure​	Purpose of Drive Cycle Procedure​
Drive Cycle Preparation​	1. Install scan tool. Turn key on with the engine off. Cycle key off, then on. Select appropriate Vehicle & Engine qualifier. Clear all DTC's/ Perform a PCM Reset.	Bypasses engine soak timer. Resets OBDII Monitor status.
​	2. Begin to monitor the following PIDs: ECT, EVAPDC, FLI (if available) and TP MODE. Start vehicle WITHOUT returning to Key Off.
​	3. Idle vehicle for 15 seconds. Drive at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) until ECT is at least 76.7°C (170° F).
Prep for Monitor Entry​	4. Is IAT within 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F)? If Not, complete the following steps but, note that step 14 will be required to "bypass " the Evap monitor and clear the P1000.	Engine warm-up and provide IAT input to the PCM.
HEGO​	5. Cruise at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) for up to 4 minutes.	Executes the HEGO monitor.
EVAP​	6. Cruise at 72 to 104 Km/h (45 to 65 MPH) for 10 minutes (avoid sharp turns and hills) Note, to initiate the monitor: TP MODE should =PT, EVAPDC must be >75%, and FLI must be between 15 and 85%	Executes the EVAP Monitor (If IAT is within 4.4 to 37.8° (40 to 100°F))
Catalyst​	7. Drive in stop and go traffic conditions. Include five different constant cruise speeds, ranging from 40 to 72 Km/h (25 to 45 MPH) over a 10 minute period.	Executes the Catalyst Monitor.
EGR​	8. From a stop, accelerate to 72 Km/h (45 MPH) at 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. Repeat 3 times.	Executes the EGR Monitor.
SEC AIR/CCM (Engine)​	9. Bring the vehicle to a stop. Idle with transmission in drive (neutral for M/T) for 2 minutes.	Executes the ISC portion of the CCM.
CCM (Trans)​	10. For M/T, accelerate from 0 to 80 Km/h (o to 50 MPH), continue to step 11. For A/T, from a stop and in overdrive, moderately accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. Stop vehicle and repeat without overdrive to 64 Km/h (40 MPH) cruising for at least 30 seconds. While at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) , activate overdrive and accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. Stop for at least 20 seconds and repeat step 10 five times.	Executes the transmission portion of the CCM.
Misfire & Fuel Monitors	11. From a stop, accelerate to 104 Km/h (65 MPH). Decelerate at closed throttle until 64 Km/h (40 MPH) (no brakes). Repeat this 3 times.	Allows learning for the misfire monitor.
Readiness Check	12. Access the ON-Board System Readiness (OBDII monitor status) function on the scan tool. Determine whether all non-continuous monitors have completed. If not, go to step 13.	Determines if any monitor has not completed.
Pending Code Check and Evap Monitor "Bypass" Check	13. With the scan tool, check for pending codes. Conduct normal repair procedures for any pending code concern. Otherwise, rerun any incomplete monitor. Note: if the EVAP monitor is not complete AND IAT was out of the 4.4 to 37.8° C (40 to 100° F) temperature range in step #4, or the altitude is over 2438 m. (8000 ft.), the Evap "bypass" procedure must be followed. Proceed to step 14.	Determines if a pending code is preventing the clearing of P1000.
Evap Monitor "Bypass"​	14. Park vehicle for a minimum of 8 hours. Repeat steps 2 through 12. DO NOT REPEAT STEP 1.	Allow the "bypass" counter to increment to two.

Well that’s simple enough.

 

[RDH]

I recently replaced my battery for a 2002 T-Bird and attempted to pass the state inspection. they mentioned that the car's computer needs to be reset. this requires driving at least 100 miles, some in the HWY for 15 min and regular driving. does any one know the specific requirements so the computer can re-set properly to pass inspection?

Just drive it after a battery change cause the computer goes to zero and they need to see that you are driving and not just getting rd of the service lite and olds trick to remove the battery or just a cable to reset the lite

 

[biddle]

I got caught in TN doing this, the station tester said "looks like you reset the computer 10 minutes ago" Busted. Leaky gas cap F150

Those scenarios would make a good video reactions compilation.

 

[Michael Holderfield]

I recently replaced my battery for a 2002 T-Bird and attempted to pass the state inspection. they mentioned that the car's computer needs to be reset. this requires driving at least 100 miles, some in the HWY for 15 min and regular driving. does any one know the specific requirements so the computer can re-set properly to pass inspection?

the computer has to go through all of its monitors, Cycles Etc so driving around town and then maybe getting up on the freeway a little bit and then driving around town again you should be good

 

[PhilD]

I've been doing this for a week now and mine still shows the evap monitor not ready, how much more I'm thinking.Plus they say don't run it with any accessories turned on so I'm in the arizona heat with no a/c running....phew!

 

[RDH]

I had to get a jump yesterday after driving for 40 minutes and the office visit was 40 minutes and the battery died, I'm charged it, ran it for over an hour and start it like two days later and it will run, but yesterday after the jump I ran it for over an hour and it didn't start this morning. The AAA guy said the battery was good and so was the alternator, so today I took it on a long ride and I'll see what happens in the morning

 

[OtterNM2002]

Based on what has been said I don't believe there's a way out. I have a 2002 Neiman Marcus with 1800 miles on it. Had to replace the battery and now need to drive it 80 to 100 miles to get the computer reset. Does anybody have any ideas on how to minimize the number of miles required?

 

[WesTxStoner425]

Find online and follow the steps for an OBDII drive cycle for the quickest reset. It still takes time (maybe 20 minutes), but you will be hitting all the points required to clear the Service Engine Soon (Check Engine) code. Regular driving will do it, too, but you've seen how long that takes.

 

[doug7740]

Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle Description of OBDII Drive Cycle The following procedure is designed to execute and complete the OBDII monitors and to clear the Ford P1000, I/M readiness code. To complete a specific monitor for repair verification, follow steps 1 through 4, then continue with the step described by the appropriate monitor found under the "OBDII Monitor Exercised" column. When the ambient air temperature is outside 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F), or the altitude is above 2438 meters (8000 feet), the EVAP monitor will not run. If the P1000 code must be cleared in these conditions, the PCM must detect them once (twice on some applications) before the EVAP monitor can be "bypassed" and the P1000 cleared. The Evap "bypassing" procedure is described in the following drive cycle. The OBDII Drive Cycle will be performed using a scan tool. Consult the instruction manual for each described function. NOTE: A detailed description of a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reset is found in this section, refer to the table of contents. Drive Cycle Recommendations: Most OBDII monitors will complete more readily using a "steady foot" driving style during cruise or acceleration modes. Operating the throttle in a "smooth" fashion will minimize the time required for monitor completion. Fuel tank level should be between 1/2 and 3/4 fill with 3/4 fill being the most desirable. The Evaporative Monitor can only operate during the first 30 minutes of engine operation. When executing the procedure for this monitor, stay in part throttle mode and drive in a smooth fashion to minimize "fuel slosh". WARNING STRICT OBSERVANCE OF POSTED SPEED LIMITS AND ATTENTION TO DRIVING CONDITIONS ARE MANDATORY WHEN PROCEEDING THROUGH THE FOLLOWING DRIVE CYCLES. For best results, follow each of the following steps as accurately as possible:

OBDII Monitor Exercised​	Drive Cycle Procedure​	Purpose of Drive Cycle Procedure​
Drive Cycle Preparation​	1. Install scan tool. Turn key on with the engine off. Cycle key off, then on. Select appropriate Vehicle & Engine qualifier. Clear all DTC's/ Perform a PCM Reset.	Bypasses engine soak timer. Resets OBDII Monitor status.
	2. Begin to monitor the following PIDs: ECT, EVAPDC, FLI (if available) and TP MODE. Start vehicle WITHOUT returning to Key Off.
	3. Idle vehicle for 15 seconds. Drive at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) until ECT is at least 76.7°C (170° F).
Prep for Monitor Entry​	4. Is IAT within 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F)? If Not, complete the following steps but, note that step 14 will be required to "bypass " the Evap monitor and clear the P1000.	Engine warm-up and provide IAT input to the PCM.
HEGO​	5. Cruise at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) for up to 4 minutes.	Executes the HEGO monitor.
EVAP​	6. Cruise at 72 to 104 Km/h (45 to 65 MPH) for 10 minutes (avoid sharp turns and hills) Note, to initiate the monitor: TP MODE should =PT, EVAPDC must be >75%, and FLI must be between 15 and 85%	Executes the EVAP Monitor (If IAT is within 4.4 to 37.8° (40 to 100°F))
Catalyst​	7. Drive in stop and go traffic conditions. Include five different constant cruise speeds, ranging from 40 to 72 Km/h (25 to 45 MPH) over a 10 minute period.	Executes the Catalyst Monitor.
EGR​	8. From a stop, accelerate to 72 Km/h (45 MPH) at 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. Repeat 3 times.	Executes the EGR Monitor.
SEC AIR/CCM (Engine)​	9. Bring the vehicle to a stop. Idle with transmission in drive (neutral for M/T) for 2 minutes.	Executes the ISC portion of the CCM.
CCM (Trans)​	10. For M/T, accelerate from 0 to 80 Km/h (o to 50 MPH), continue to step 11. For A/T, from a stop and in overdrive, moderately accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. Stop vehicle and repeat without overdrive to 64 Km/h (40 MPH) cruising for at least 30 seconds. While at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) , activate overdrive and accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. Stop for at least 20 seconds and repeat step 10 five times.	Executes the transmission portion of the CCM.
Misfire & Fuel Monitors	11. From a stop, accelerate to 104 Km/h (65 MPH). Decelerate at closed throttle until 64 Km/h (40 MPH) (no brakes). Repeat this 3 times.	Allows learning for the misfire monitor.
Readiness Check	12. Access the ON-Board System Readiness (OBDII monitor status) function on the scan tool. Determine whether all non-continuous monitors have completed. If not, go to step 13.	Determines if any monitor has not completed.
Pending Code Check and Evap Monitor "Bypass" Check	13. With the scan tool, check for pending codes. Conduct normal repair procedures for any pending code concern. Otherwise, rerun any incomplete monitor. Note: if the EVAP monitor is not complete AND IAT was out of the 4.4 to 37.8° C (40 to 100° F) temperature range in step #4, or the altitude is over 2438 m. (8000 ft.), the Evap "bypass" procedure must be followed. Proceed to step 14.	Determines if a pending code is preventing the clearing of P1000.
Evap Monitor "Bypass"​	14. Park vehicle for a minimum of 8 hours. Repeat steps 2 through 12. DO NOT REPEAT STEP 1.	Allow the "bypass" counter to increment to two.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue​