How do I reset the ECM on my 96 Tacoma 2wd 2.4L?

I have heard from the grapevine it is as simple of a process as unplugging the battery and what not, but it would be good for you guys to give me a thorough explanation of how to go about said undertaking.

Thanks a ton!

 

I take it you mean clearing the codes ??

A code reader that can read and clear codes is the best. Good to have since you don`t need to take it someplace to have them read.

disconnect the negative battery terminal that clears all the codes and clears all the test cycle data.

I read 10 minutes but every time I have the negative terminal off it is longer then 10 minutes

 

The problem with just clearing it is you never learn what the code was and it may be important information. A bad front o2 sensor can kill your fuel economy and possibly ruin your cat, just to give one example. If you are not going to do anything about it, why clear it? Just to get rid of the light? Just leave it. If you ARE going to do something, you need to read the code.

Many autoparts stores will read the code or lend you a scanner. A cheap scanner is less then $20 on Amazon. If you have an Android smart phone, you can get the free Torque app and a Bluetooth OBDII adapter off eBay from China for $5. Just takes three weeks to get it but they work...mostly.

So yeah, just disconnecting the negative (ground) cable off the battery for ten minutes will do it, but you will lose valuable information.

 

I can`t see owning a OBD II vehicle without a code reader I keep one in each vehicle.

If the Mil lights I want to know just why .

 

Hey Durk, just wanted to say that I am doing something about it. It is showing the code p0136 and it is doing so due to the oxygen sensor on bank 1 sensor 2. I was going to replace the sensor then reset the code.

 

When you repair the O2 Sensor problem as soon as the O2 sensor tests run the Mil will turn off on it`s own.

Clear the code and it lights again you know you did not get it fixed.

 

Well, that one can be, but is not guaranteed to be the sensor. Might be just the connector (frequent fail due to location) or other circuit issue. At least you know the issue is relatively benign--the rear sensor really only exists to set codes--no performance issues.

http://tacoma.site40.net/4Runner_96-...fe/cip0136.pdf

I'd do the test in Step 3, THEN buy a new sensor...unless you believe it has 80k or more on it.