NY State Inspection After Check Engine Light Reset: Drive Cycle Requirements

New York's OBD-II inspection does not require a fixed mileage after clearing codes. Instead, the vehicle's readiness monitors must be "Ready" (completed self-tests).

How It Works

• Clearing codes (or disconnecting battery) resets monitors to "Not Ready."
• Driving a drive cycle (specific speed/temp/profile) runs the tests.
• Typical: 50–100 miles of mixed city/highway driving over 1–3 days.
• Monitors: Catalyst, EVAP, O2 sensor, EGR, etc. (varies by vehicle).

Practical Advice

1. Don't just drive aimlessly; follow a generic OBD-II drive cycle (cold start, idle, accelerate, cruise, decel).
2. Use an OBD-II scanner ($20–50) to check monitor status before inspection.
3. If monitors won't set, a pending/hard code may exist—fix the underlying issue.
4. 1996–2000 models: up to 2 monitors "Not Ready" allowed; 2001+: only 1 (EVAP).

No mileage mandate—just complete the drive cycle.