Required Service Light?

Hi:

First, try disconnecting the battery for about a half hour. Then, reconnect it. If you're lucky, that will do it. However, many times you need a computer to reset it.

Let me know if it works.

Joe

Hi,

First, the book tell us it can only be done with a scan tool. Take a look:

1991 Dodge or Ram Truck Dakota 2WD V8-318 5.2L
Emission Maintenance Reminder Light (EMR) Reset
Vehicle Powertrain Management Emission Control Systems Emissions Maintenance Light Service and Repair Procedures Emission Maintenance Reminder Light (EMR) Reset
EMISSION MAINTENANCE REMINDER LIGHT (EMR) RESET
This output device is located in the instrument panel, and its purpose is to inform the driver that the vehicle requires scheduled maintenance for certain emission system components. The Single Board Engine Controller (SBEC) illuminates this lamp at certain mileage intervals. The controller keeps track of the vehicle mileage by monitoring the vehicle distance (speed) sensor. The EMR Lamp illuminates at 60,000 mi, 82,500 mi, and 120,000 mi.

The manufacturer recommends performing the following procedures at these intervals:

60,000 miles
Replace EGR Valve
Replace EGR Tube (if equipped)
Clean EGR passage
Replace PCV Valve

82,500 miles
Replace Oxygen Sensor

120,000 miles
Replace EGR Valve
Replace EGR Tube (if equipped)
Clean EGR passage
Replace PCV Valve

RESET PROCEDURE
The Emissions Maintenance Reminder (EMR) light can ONLY be reset through the use of a SCAN TOOL. If the engine controller is replaced, the current vehicle mileage needs to be entered into the EMR memory of the new controller. For more instructions on the use of a scan tool, refer to Computers and Control Systems/Testing and Inspection/Procedures.

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If the dealer has the adapter for this vehicle, that is the easiest way to do it. Do they have the correct adapter?

The only other way I have ever had it reset was by disconnecting the battery. The computer on this vehicle isn't extremely complex. There is a relearn process, but it does it by itself and takes very little time. You may notice a rough idle or other minor things, but it will go away by itself after a few short drives.

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Let me know if you have other questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

Honestly, I don't know which brand to recommend for an OBD1 system. The issue is they are very expensive. If your friend has the one that will work, I would let him try it.

The only other thing I can think of is to disconnect both battery cables and then zip tie them together for about 20 minutes. That will drain any power from capacitors. Other than that, I guess it will require the scan tool. I'm sorry it didn't work for you.

Joe

It is just a thought. I do that when I repair TIPM on Chrysler vehicles. It drains the capacitors.

Let me know.

Joe

Disconnect the battery. As far as a scanner, the computer trouble codes are read by cycling the ignition key.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe

Hi Fred,

If it didn't clear in that amount of time, chances are it won't. Regardless, I will still keep my fingers crossed. If this doesn't work, it will need the scan tool.

Let me know,

Joe

I'm sorry, but we try to keep everything on here. If it gets too difficult, we can figure something out. I hope you understand.

As far as the scanner, can you upload what you are seeing? I have to be honest. OBD 1 ended at the end of 1994, so the idea that it will work up to 1999 is interesting. 1995 - 1999 should be OBD 2.

I tried looking up the part numbers but was coming up with engine parts for a dodge caravan. LOL

Let me know.
Joe

Wow, if it is in good condition, you got a deal. I just hope you never have to use them because that would just mean more problems. LOL

Take care and let us know if you have questions in the future.

Joe

Have you run codes?

One of two possibilities. Sorry, can't remember which year they changed over.

On newer vehicles, you need a Chrysler scanner, the DRB2, (Diagnostic Readout Box version 2). It's listed as "SRI Reset" but I can't remember what "SRI" stands for.

You might be able to reset the light with newer after-market scanners but that option wasn't available a few years ago.

On older Dakotas, there is a black box behind the glove box. It's about 3" x 2" x 1 1/2". It has a 9 volt transistor battery that slides out of the end. Leave the battery connected. On the side of the box, near the battery end, is a tiny hole. Stick a straightened paper clip through the hole to press a small microswitch. The switch would be blocked by the battery if you didn't remove it. I can't remember if the ignition switch needs to be on or off when you press the switch. You're supposed to replace the battery at the same time. Just unplugging the battery won't turn the light off.

This light is only on vehicles with truck exhaust systems, which includes minivans, and is supposed to turn on at 90,000, 120,000, and 180,000 miles plus or minus depending on number of key cycles.

Caradiodoc