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How do you reset a service engine soon light on 1993 Chevrolet Camaro?

You can't simply "reset" a Service Engine Soon (SES) light on a 1993 Chevrolet Camaro (or any OBD-I vehicle) like you can with later OBD-II vehicles. The SES light in a '93 Camaro indicates a problem detected by the onboard computer. Simply clearing the light without addressing the underlying issue will likely cause it to come back on.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Diagnose the Problem: The SES light itself doesn't tell you *what* is wrong. You need to diagnose the problem. This can be done a few ways:

* OBD-I Scanner: You'll need a scan tool specifically designed for OBD-I (pre-1996) vehicles. These scanners will read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the car's computer. This will give you a clue about the underlying problem. OBD-I scanners are becoming harder to find.

* Check Engine Light Codes (DIY): Some people attempt to read codes by jumping a connector under the dash. This method varies by year and involves carefully shorting two pins in a diagnostic connector (often a ALDL connector, located under the dash) while monitoring the SES light. This requires research specific to your exact 1993 Camaro model. Online forums dedicated to Camaros may have this information, but proceed with caution. This method is less reliable than using a proper scanner.

2. Repair the Problem: Once you know the trouble code(s), you can research the likely cause(s) and fix the problem(s). This may involve replacing a sensor, fixing a vacuum leak, or performing more extensive repairs.

3. Clear the Code (After Repair): After you've repaired the issue that triggered the SES light, you can clear the code. Again, this will vary, depending on whether you used a scanner or the jumper wire method:

* OBD-I Scanner: Most OBD-I scanners have a function to clear codes.

* Jumper Wire Method: If you used the jumper wire method, the process of clearing the codes usually involves disconnecting the battery for a period of time (about 30 minutes). This may not reliably work on every system, but it's the most common way for a DIY approach.

Important Considerations:

* Safety: Working on your car's electrical system or engine can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, take your Camaro to a qualified mechanic.

* OBD-II Adapters: Don't use OBD-II scanners or adapters. They won't work on a 1993 Camaro's OBD-I system.

* Accuracy: DIY diagnosis and repair might be inaccurate if you lack experience.

Ignoring the SES light is not recommended. The underlying problem could worsen, leading to more extensive (and expensive) repairs down the road, or potentially dangerous driving conditions. Find the cause of the problem, fix it, and then (and only then) clear the code.