I have a CEL probably caused by a loose gas cap (p0456). So I decided that this would be a great time to buy a Scan Gauge 2 for the Mini. I hooked it up and tried to clear to code but the screen went blank. I read that this is caused by a failure to communicate with the car.

Is there any trick to clearing the CEL or did I possibly get a bad unit?
The MINI is a R56.

Thanks.

 

Here is what works for me:
Insert key (do not touch the clutch)
Press the start button on the dash
Press the bottom right button on the ScanGauge
Clear the code as per Scan Gauge Directions
Remove the key
Insert the key and start code should be gone.

 

Awesome! Worked like a charm.

Thanks

 

Sounds like a case of RTFM to me...

 

Thanks for your reply, ron-s mini. Been trying for two weeks to clear codes after replacing HPFP on 2011 Countryman S. Have the Bentley manual, no help. Was ready to give up on my "El Cheapo" code reader- could tell it wouldn't communicate until engine started, would have never thought to push start button and not start engine.
Thanks for this pearl of wisdom! Worked first try.