Can I drive my car if it says maintenance required?
If your car's dashboard displays a "Maintenance Required" warning light, it's generally safe to continue driving, but you should address the issue as soon as possible. The maintenance required light indicates that your vehicle needs some routine service or repair, but it doesn't necessarily mean the car is unsafe to operate.
What Does the "Maintenance Required" Light Mean?
The "Maintenance Required" light is typically triggered when your car's onboard computer detects that it's time for a scheduled maintenance service, such as an oil change, tire rotation, or other routine checkup. This light is designed to remind you to bring your vehicle in for the necessary maintenance to keep it running smoothly and prevent more serious problems from developing.
Is It Safe to Drive with the Maintenance Required Light On?
In most cases, it is safe to continue driving your car with the "Maintenance Required" light illuminated, as long as the vehicle is otherwise functioning normally. The light is simply a reminder that maintenance is due, not an indication of an immediate safety issue. However, it's important to have the required maintenance performed as soon as possible to avoid potential problems down the road.
What Should You Do If the Light Is On?
- Check your owner's manual to determine the specific maintenance required and when it should be performed.
- Schedule an appointment with a qualified mechanic to have the necessary service done.
- Continue driving your car, but be mindful of any changes in performance or behavior, and address any other warning lights or issues that may arise.
- Avoid ignoring the "Maintenance Required" light for an extended period, as this could lead to more serious problems and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
By addressing the "Maintenance Required" light promptly, you can help ensure your car remains in good working condition and avoid more costly repairs in the future.
How long can I drive without maintenance?
As a general rule, most cars need at least annual servicing, or you'll need to take the car in every 10,000 miles. However, you'll also want to consider a few other points to determine your car's most effective maintenance schedule.
Can I drive on maintenance mode?
Our advice is that you do not drive in the maintenance mode unless it is an emergency. If you drive your car in maintenance mode be very careful. The vehicle will idle, traction and other self-preservation and components will be disabled.
What happens if you ignore maintenance required?
Delaying Service Can Cause Bigger Issues
This is a quick and inexpensive service, but if you delay it, you're risking damage to your engine. Engine damage is a much larger mechanical problem and could keep your car off the road for much longer.
How do I get out of maintenance mode?
And tap on. Device care scroll down again and in the additional care section tap on maintenance mode tap on exit to disable maintenance mode confirm by tapping restart. And verify your identity.
Does maintenance required mean low oil?
Understanding the “maintenance required” light on your dashboard is crucial for your vehicle's upkeep and your peace of mind. Typically, this light serves as a reminder for regular maintenance such as oil changes. Once the service is complete, the light needs to be manually reset.
Is it okay to drive a car that needs an oil change?
Putting off your oil change isn't going to yield immediate catastrophic damage. Your engine will not function as efficiently. Moreover, driving after your oil change is due increases the risk of severe engine damage and worsens with each mile. You'd eventually have a cascade of problems that are often irreversible.
How long can a car last with maintenance?
A conventional car can last for 200,000 miles. Some well-maintained car models will reach 300,000 or more miles total. The average passenger car age is currently around 12 years in the United States. Choosing a well-built make and model can help extend your car's longevity.
Should I be worried if my car says maintenance required?
The maintenance required light is a warning light informing drivers that their car needs maintenance. It's not something you should worry about, but it's best not to wait and consult your car's maintenance schedule.
How far can I drive with maintenance required?
Car Services in Reading
In general, a flashing oil light will turn into a serious problem after around 2 weeks or 500 miles of driving. However, once it reaches that stage, things can quickly deteriorate, resulting in catastrophic mechanical damage.
