check engine light after removing rear bumper 2016 ACR E

[02192viper]

As the post says, I got a check engine light after removing the rear bumper. I disconnected the battery before I started, so as to avoid this, but apparently it didn't help. I am positive I reconnected everything correctly and all turn signals, brake lights, etc. seem to be working correctly. Any idea what could have caused this?

[SLP]

What code did it throw? That's important info to provide when asking people for help, especially when asking what caused the code. Could be as simple as a temporary code cause by disconnecting the battery.

[02192viper]

Haven’t looked into that, just thought someone had experienced this before when removing the bumper. Going to get a code scanner next to see what code it is.

[SLP]

Try navigating to the onboard code reader on the dash screen above the steering wheel (stethoscope icon) if you don't have a scanner on hand. It will tell you what code it is.

[02192viper]

Did not know that! Thanks SLP, will try that first.

[Steve-Indy]

First guess is that the CEL is due to disconnecting the battery. If so, it should clear by itself with a couple of drive cycles.

[Gen5snake]

First guess is that the CEL is due to disconnecting the battery. If so, it should clear by itself with a couple of drive cycles.

Yep

[Steve M]

P2610 = you disconnected the battery. Annoying, but pretty much guaranteed to happen if you disconnect the battery for more than a few seconds. It should go away on its own.

[Hamrhead]

P2610 = you disconnected the battery. Annoying, but pretty much guaranteed to happen if you disconnect the battery for more than a few seconds. It should go away on its own.

Thanks for this info. I've got this code right now. Most likely from my battery being run-down over the winter. Had to jump start it here and there and charge the battery. Car hasn't moved since October '19, so I guess I'll have to drive it to get the CEL to go away.

[Steve M]

I'm not sure about Gens 1-3, but Gen 4 and 5 Vipers have large key-off battery drain issues. I don't know what component(s) cause it, but they pretty much have to be kept on a float charger of some sort unless you drive it every 2-3 days or so. Just one of those quirks.

[02192viper]

Thanks for all the info everyone. Sure enough, P2610 was the code and after a couple drive cycles it disappeared. I had disconnected the battery before a few times but never for this long. Glad I’m learning.
Thanks again everyone!!

[ViperSRT]

I'm not sure about Gens 1-3, but Gen 4 and 5 Vipers have large key-off battery drain issues. I don't know what component(s) cause it, but they pretty much have to be kept on a float charger of some sort unless you drive it every 2-3 days or so. Just one of those quirks.

I only need to use the battery charger when off for a month or more. Definitely no issue for a few weeks.

[Steve M]

I only need to use the battery charger when off for a month or more. Definitely no issue for a few weeks.

Good to know...I've never felt brave enough to test it.