loss of memory
 

All,
This is more an FYI than a question. I recently had to take my car in for the bi-annual emissions test in Md. I promptly failed. The tech asked when the battery was replaced, I said in early Feb. The next question was how often do I drive it, my response was today. He informed me (and I'm sure many of you already knew this but I didn't) that the memory resets when the battery is replaced. The only way the emissions system works is by reading this memory as a history. I had only 2 start and stops in my history, so not enough data. All that is needed is to drive the car about a dozen times to rebuild the history. Distance is not important but the engine should get warm for best results. I am writing this for all of those who, like me, didn't know about the memory thing. Hope this prevents a future failure for any in the dark.

Re: loss of memory
 

At least he let you know, instead of just failing it, then trying to figure out why.

Re: loss of memory
 

Guess I got lucky with the one state worker willing to help a fellow out.

Re: loss of memory
 

There is a series of driving sequences that you can do that gets all the boxes ticked in the most efficient way.
It is on this forum at least twice, or you can look on the web for it. I used the Chrysler steps and it worked.
I initially tried just driving around like normal but one system would not reset, I think it was something to do with the carbon filter emissions.
An OBD reader comes in handy as the good ones tell you if the system is set or not.

Re: loss of memory
 

I'll admit I'm not the most computer savy guy. I tried looking for the tips you were suggesting but I couldn't them. Where are they hidden?

Re: loss of memory
 

This site gives the drive cycle that worked for me, I used my Blue Driver OBD scanner to show that the codes were all reset. CLICK

Re: loss of memory
 

I just went out and verified that the light stays lit so I guess I'm off to emissions after work. Thanx for the info.

Re: loss of memory
 

What light?
The red engine light is an auto fail in most places. Except in some after spending quite a bit of money on a solution, that would have applied to Ontario but they cancelled the test here.
The reason was I was test centres did not make any money on it and they had the ear of or, if I was cynical, think they donated to the coffers of the new government political party.

Re: loss of memory
 

I clicked on the link at the end of your last post. I followed the instructions and the check engine light stayed lit. It didn't blink. I don't own a code reader.

Re: loss of memory
 

Stare at the red light as long as you like, it will not blink. It is either ON or OFF. Are you sure it is not something else?
Go to an auto supply store, O’Reillys, NAPA or someone like that they will read the errors for free.