How to Reset the Computer on a Chevrolet Avalanche

The Chevrolet Avalanche truck’s powertrain control module acts as its central computer.  The truck is built with sensors, which collects vital information about the engine and interior, then sends it to the computer.  Sometimes the computer needs resetting due to hardware or software issues.

• Drive your Chevrolet Avalanche to the nearest service station, or to a location where you will not interrupt other motorists as you attend to your vehicle.


• Park the vehicle and turn off the engine.  Make sure to put the parking brake on.


• Turn the ignition key to turn the electrical system of the truck on, but be careful not to turn over the engine.  When the vehicle’s engine is off, but the power is on, use the scanner.  The automotive scanner is responsible for resetting the computer and switching off the light that goes off when the computer detects a problem.


• Connect the scanner to the Avalanche, by inserting its data cable to the vehicle’s diagnostic 16-pin port, which is located beneath the driver’s side of the dashboard.


• Use the scanner to find your way to the Powertrain control module, which senses the problems in the vehicle and stores it in its memory as a trouble code, and lights up the service engine light.  At the Powertrain control module, clear all of the codes. 


• Remove the scanner from the truck and switch on the engine.


• Confirm whether the service engine light is still illuminated, and if it still is, repeat the process until the computer is reset.