Mindful Musings

I have, twice. This time, I forgot about the stereo anti-theft code and it caused me a lot of headaches but thats another post.
If you own a newer model vehicle in which a computer chip controls the fuel/air mixture and keeps track of the “under the hood” equipment, you might benefit from a reboot. A reboot, in many cases, can be as simple as leaving your battery terminals unplugged for a few seconds. Yes, you have to re-program everything that depends on that battery for juice such as your clock and your radio, and yes, you HAVE TO make sure that the reset will not kill the remote car start or the remote door lock/alarm system, but other than that, you might have a new-ish car on your hands again.

My Honda Accord (98) runs better, gives better gas mileage and feels brisk again. My meagre research tells me that these computers try to keep track of the driver’s usage of the engine. If you tend to be a lethargic driver, the engine tries to modify itself to suit your needs and vice versa. The process of understanding the driver’s needs is less than perfect and more often than not, the engine just becomes less energetic and responds slower to throttle requests. As usual, not being a mechanic or a car chip programmer, all of this is heresay and can be easily disputed. All I know is that my car feels a little more fun to drive now that I have rebooted it!

If you own one of those electric-gas hybrids (or all electric car), I would not try the above. Delicate voltage measurements and tweaks could be lost and you might end up with a large repair bill.

Standard Disclaimer: I assume no responsability for any damages, any loss of income or any expenditure from your foray into car reboots, if you choose to try the above.