A factory data reset on the Vehicle Gateway (VG3) lets you safely restore the device when it enters an unexpected or unstable state. This article explains when to use it, how to perform the reset step by step, how to read the LED patterns, and what to expect afterward so you can reduce unnecessary downtime.
Overview
Factory data reset is a long-press action on the Vehicle Gateway reset pinhole that clears the local data partition and forces the device to rebuild its state while keeping the installed firmware version intact.
- Targeted recovery: Clears only the local data partition to recover the VG3 from error states like storage corruption or stuck data without reflashing firmware.
- Simple long-press action: Triggered by a long press (~8–12 seconds) of the reset pinhole while the device is powered on, using a paperclip or reset tool.
- Clear LED states: Uses distinct LED patterns to indicate when a data reset is in progress and when the device is in an interrupted state.
- Recovery from interruptions: If the reset is interrupted, you can power cycle and repeat the long-press reset to recover from the interrupted state instead of immediately replacing the device.
- Automatic re-sync: After a successful reset, the VG3 reboots, reconnects to cellular, clears pending messages, and pulls configuration from the Motive Platform, restoring normal behavior after a short sync period.
Note: To perform a factory data reset on VG3, you will require the following:
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Location of the reset button
The Vehicle Gateway’s reset button is a small pinhole located next to the USB port on the device. You will need a fine-point tool, such as a paperclip or the included reset pin to press it.
Short press vs. long press behavior
- Short-press for ~5 seconds performs a simple reboot of the VG and does not erase data or perform a data recovery.
- Long-press for ~8–12 seconds triggers a factory data reset that clears the data partition or local storage, which does not reflash or recover firmware.
When to perform a factory data reset on VG3
A factory data reset is recommended when the Vehicle Gateway is powered but remains in an abnormal or unstable state even after a standard reboot or power cycle. Perform a factory data reset when you need to resolve the following conditions:
- Frequent or unexpected auto-reboots: The Vehicle Gateway keeps restarting without a clear cause.
- Device not receiving firmware updates:The Vehicle Gateway does not appear to accept or apply expected updates.
- Storage or data issues: Conditions like storage full, corrupted local data store, or unexplained behavior that persists after power cycling.
- General unexplained behavior: For example, if the Vehicle Gateway appears unresponsive even though power and cabling have been checked and a standard reboot has been attempted.
Note: Before performing a factory data reset, always:
Only if issues persist, perform the factory data reset. |
Performing a factory data reset on VG3
- To make sure the Vehicle Gateway is powered ON, turn on the vehicle ignition so that VG3 powers up and the LEDs are visible.
- Insert a paperclip or reset pin gently into the pinhole until you feel the button depress.
- Press and hold the reset button for ~8-12 seconds until both LEDs turn off. Do not release the reset button when the LEDs turn off.
- Keep holding the reset button until the LEDs turn back on, then release it.
| Note: LEDs turning off and back on indicates that the factory data reset has been initiated and the device is rebooting. |
- After reboot, both LEDs will blink blue and green briefly and then blink amber simultaneously to indicate the data reset is in progress.
- The reset typically takes 2–4 minutes. Wait until the reset is complete.
Note: While waiting for the rest to be completed:
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- The Vehicle Gateway will automatically restart once the reset is complete.
- After the reset:
- The device boots normally and reconnects to the cellular network.
- Wi-Fi developer settings are erased.
- Pending messages to the motive servers are cleared.
- Local storage is reset.
- Device configuration is restored from Motive servers (may take up to an hour).
| Note: Do not perform repeated resets. After a successful reset, wait at least one hour while the device synchronizes with the server. |
Troubleshooting interrupted factory data reset
If power is lost or the reset button is pressed again during the factory data reset:
- The Vehicle Gateway will enter an Interrupted state and display the pattern of alternating blinking of the LEDs in Yellow for ~2 minutes.
- It will then power down.
- To recover the Vehicle Gateway from this state, power cycle the device and repeat the factory reset process from the beginning.
FAQs
Which devices support factory data reset?
Factory data reset is available on Vehicle Gateway VG3.6xx devices running firmware 105xxx or later with a reset pinhole next to the USB port.
When should I use a factory data reset on VG3?
Use a factory data reset only after you have already tried a short-press reboot and a full power cycle and the device still shows issues like frequent auto-reboots, not receiving firmware updates, storage or data corruption, or other unexplained unstable behavior.
What is the difference between a short press and a long press on the reset button?
A short press (~5 seconds) performs a simple reboot and does not erase local data. A long press (~8–12 seconds) triggers a factory data reset, which clears the local data partition but does not reflash or change the firmware.
Does a factory data reset change the firmware version on the Vehicle Gateway?
No. Factory data reset does not reflash, upgrade, or downgrade firmware. It only clears local data and forces the device to rebuild its state and configuration from the Motive Platform.
How long does a factory data reset take?
The reset itself usually takes about 2–4 minutes while both LEDs blink together in amber. After that, the Vehicle Gateway restarts and may need up to an hour to fully re-sync configuration and data.
What do the LEDs mean during a factory data reset?
- When both LEDs blink together in amber, the factory data reset is in progress.
- If the LEDs alternate in yellow and amber (one on, one off, then swap), the reset was interrupted, and the device has entered the interrupted state.
What should I do if I see alternating yellow and amber LEDs?
Alternating yellow and amber LEDs for about 2 minutes means the reset was interrupted. Wait for the device to power down, then power cycle the Vehicle Gateway and repeat the factory data reset steps from the beginning.
Can I press the reset button again while the reset is running?
No. Once the factory data reset has started (both LEDs blinking together), do not press the reset button again and do not unplug the power until the LEDs stop blinking and the device has restarted.
What settings and data are cleared by a factory data reset?
A factory data reset clears local storage on the Vehicle Gateway, including Wi-Fi developer settings, pending messages, and other local data. After the reset, configuration is restored from the Motive Platform when the device reconnects.
Can I run a factory data reset multiple times if the issue persists?
Repeated factory data resets are not recommended. Use it once to recover from a genuine fault or after an interrupted reset. If the Vehicle Gateway still does not behave normally after a successful reset and enough time to resync, contact Motive Support.
What should I do if a factory data reset does not fix the problem?
If, after a proper factory data reset and sufficient time for resync, the Vehicle Gateway still does not reconnect or continues to behave abnormally, gather details (serial number, firmware version if known, LED pattern, and steps already tried) and contact Motive Support for further troubleshooting.
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