Can you drive with the maintenance light on?
As a seasoned auto service provider, I often encounter questions about dashboard warning lights, particularly the maintenance light. This light can be a source of confusion for many drivers. In this article, we will explore what it means when your maintenance light is on, whether it's safe to drive, and what steps you should take to address the issue.
Understanding the Maintenance Light
The maintenance light is a reminder that your vehicle is due for routine maintenance. This could include oil changes, tire rotations, or other scheduled services. Unlike warning lights that indicate immediate issues, the maintenance light is more of a prompt to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
Is It Safe to Drive with the Maintenance Light On?
In most cases, it is safe to drive with the maintenance light on, but it is not advisable to ignore it. Here are some key points to consider:
- Routine Maintenance: The maintenance light typically indicates that it's time for scheduled service. Ignoring it can lead to more significant issues down the road.
- Potential Risks: While driving with the maintenance light on is generally safe, neglecting maintenance can result in decreased performance and potential breakdowns.
- Check Your Owner's Manual: Your vehicle's manual will provide specific information about what the maintenance light means for your make and model.
What to Do When the Maintenance Light Comes On
If your maintenance light is illuminated, here are the steps you should take:
- Schedule a Service: Contact your trusted auto service provider to schedule an appointment for maintenance.
- Perform Basic Checks: Check your oil level, tire pressure, and fluid levels to ensure everything is in order.
- Reset the Light: After completing the necessary maintenance, the light can often be reset. This is something your mechanic can assist with.
Conclusion
While it is generally safe to drive with the maintenance light on, it is crucial to address the underlying maintenance needs of your vehicle. Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your car but also ensures your safety on the road. If you have any concerns or questions about your vehicle's maintenance light, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional auto service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the maintenance required light serious?
Many drivers confuse the maintenance required light with the check engine light (CEL). While they look similar, though, they aren't the same. The maintenance required light doesn't indicate a problem with your vehicle; it only means that you've driven for at least 4,500 miles since the last time it was reset.
How urgent is maintenance light?
A maintenance light means you should plan to book service at a dealership or repair shop soon. Although it's not a good idea to stretch the interval too far, you can generally schedule the required maintenance when it's most convenient without worrying about your car's health.
Can I still drive my car with the service light on?
How you should respond to the engine dashboard light depends on the type of light it shows, i.e., whether it's solid amber or red/blinking. If your check engine light is solid amber, you can continue driving to your destination, but you should book a car diagnostic as soon as possible.
Can I ignore maintenance required light?
If you ignore the maintenance light, you may damage your car's engine. A regular oil change reduces wear and tear, prolongs your engine's life, and even improves fuel economy.
How many miles can I drive after the oil light comes on?
If your oil light comes on, you should try to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Note, though, that driving around a bit more won't destroy anything. Generally speaking, you have about 2 weeks or 500 miles of driving before a flashing oil light turns into a legitimate problem.
Can you still drive your car if the service light is on?
This light signals a serious fault or engine malfunction and may even cause your vehicle to break down, so it is not safe to continue driving while this light is showing. Having your check engine light on amber or red/blinking, will also result in an automatic MOT failure.
How long can I drive with my maintenance light on?
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. As a result, schedule an appointment with a mechanic as soon as possible.
Can I drive with the engine maintenance light on?
As long as the check engine light is not flashing you are good to go. Just make sure you get it in as soon as possible. No problem!
How far can you drive with service engine light on?
50-100 miles
The answer is it is safe to drive from 50-100 miles. To maintain your car's health, it is always better to get it checked immediately when you see the check engine light.
What happens if you don't reset maintenance light?
Ignoring this light may seem harmless, but doing so could lead to gradual engine wear, reduced performance and even severe engine damage over time. As such, your oil change light is a necessary guardian of your vehicle's health and shouldn't be dismissed.
