yes i went into the menu option of "erase codes", followed the directions, turned engine off, key in ON position, then clicked reset. check engine light is still on and codes are still present in the scan tool

That’s weird. Try with another scan tool if you have. If not disconnect the negative battery cable for 15 min. It should do the job.

so leave the positive connected? that won't mess up the computer with other things like engine idle speed etc?

I don’t think it will mess things up. But for your peace of mind, you can use a memory saver before disconnecting the battery.

Yaser is wrong. If you use a memory saver then that completely defeats the purpose of disconnecting the battery. The codes will not be be cleared. If you want to use this method of clearing codes, then yes you will lose your radio stations and other settings, and your car may run roughly for a while. There is no way around it.

I may be wrong on the memory saver but you are also not sure about rough idle. I did it to my cars and never had a rough idle.

Every car and situation is a little different. It's not a big deal ... the computer does eventually re calibrate. I just mention it so driver's aren't alarmed if the car starts to run poorly. It has happened to me.

OK thanks mountainman. do you recommend a specific scan tool?

I use a Scangauge II and I'm very happy with it. It's fairly basic and not as powerful as some other tools out there, but it's reliable and the support is fantastic. Made in USA and no Chinglish manuals.

That's the only one I have first hand experience with. But from what I hear, people seem to like Bluedriver, and the Actron and Autel line have a good reputation too.

I did that

yes I did