1996 Saturn SL1 Failed Monitors Not Set New Battery Installed.

The only thing that failed was the check engine light. I was informed, after the test, that my recent change of the battery was the cause. (seems this is the "readiness flags" test?). It had been 4 weeks since I changed the battery, but my driving is limited. I only drive to and from work and a few errands on the weekend, totaling about 30 miles per week. I checked internet info. and seems the solution is just more driving. My mechanic said the same thing. I put 60 miles on the car yesterday, driving 40 on the freeway, 20 on surface streets, including going up hills. However, took the car after this drive to the test only station yesterday, and it failed again. How much driving do I have to do in order for the OBD to reset? I need to send the smog check results in a few weeks. Any recomendations would be helpful.

Answer:

You're correct. The good codes... The "Readiness Flags" need to be reset. These Readiness Flags indicate that certain emissions systems which the OBD II computer has been monitoring have PASSED the test, indicating that those systems are working properly.

Your Saturn SL1 will fail the smog inspection if the proper "Readiness Flags" are not set.

The "repair" in this case involves ensuring the check engine light is not on, and the smog machine is detecting the readiness flag are set. This involves driving your Saturn through 2 or 3 "drive cycles" in order to set the proper "flags". Drive cycles vary. It usually requires around 100 miles and 1 to 2 weeks worth of driving.

posted by SmogTips Support