How many drive cycles do I need to complete in order for the OBD-II tests to give the go ahead for inspection? I have to get my car inspected this weekend and I don't want to fail for that reason. Also, how many does it usually take for the computer to clear a code on its own?

 

Generally for a code to clear it needs to through 3 cold cycles. Don't know on an OBD test but it could be the same.

 

I think that its around 7-8 cycles, but it depends on your vehicle. (used to live in MA) Im not sure though how many miles it takes to clear out a code on its own or even if it does so. You can clear the code and the old drive cycles with an OBDII reader. Some autoparts stores might have a reader that they can clear it out for you (i know autozone does). Hope this helps.

 

The problem w/ clearing the codes is that it also clears the tests, so I'd fail inspection as a result. I know codes can clear themselves if the computer detects no issues. Just I needed to know how long so after I replace my broken sensor and crap gasket, I know how many cycles of driving I need to do to prepare for inspection.

 

This is from the manual regarding how long it will take for the light to turn off.

"After three driving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctions present, the light should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving.)"

 

That's what I wanted to hear, thanks everyone.

 

I wanna say its 1000 miles, but that could be wrong.

 

If that's the case, then I'm f'ed. I'll see when I get home though since my scanner has a State Emissions Check on it. I know I drove the car a lot lately but it would be at most 300 miles. Hopefully I don't need to take a random road trip.

 

Maybe its only 500? 1000 does seem a little much.

 

http://www.obdii.com/drivecycleford.html

So at worst, clear the code and make sure you get all that done.

 

Thanks for the link. Seems like I did a good chunk of those but again, I'll see what the scanner says when I get home.