How do you reset a 2018 Dodge Charger?
There isn’t a single universal reset for a 2018 Dodge Charger. If you need to clear maintenance reminders, TPMS warnings, or refresh the infotainment system, you perform system-specific resets using the instrument cluster, steering-wheel controls, or Uconnect settings.
What resets commonly matter to Charger owners
The Charger’s maintenance indicators, tire-pressure system, and infotainment unit each require their own reset procedure. These resets are largely software-driven and can vary slightly by trim or software version. Always consult the owner's manual for your exact configuration if something doesn’t behave as described here.
Oil life / maintenance light reset
Resetting the oil-life indicator is a routine step after an oil change. The procedure is performed from the instrument cluster and requires the ignition to be in a ready state without the engine running.
- Turn the ignition to ON with the engine OFF (accessory mode).
- Use the steering wheel controls to navigate to the Vehicle Info or Oil Life screen.
- Highlight Oil Life and press and hold the OK/Reset button until the display shows 100% (or reads “Oil Life Reset”).
- Turn the ignition OFF, then start the engine to verify the reset took.
After performing this reset, the Oil Life indicator should reflect a full maintenance interval. If it doesn’t, repeat the steps or check for software updates from your dealer.
TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) reset
Resetting TPMS is common after inflating, rotating, or replacing tires. The process ensures the system relearns the new pressures and positions.
Before you begin the reset, verify that all tires are inflated to the recommended pressures listed on the door placard.
- With the ignition ON and the engine OFF, locate the TPMS reset option on the instrument cluster or use the dedicated TPMS reset button (location can vary by trim).
- Select Reset or press and hold the TPMS button until you see a confirmation (the warning light may blink or a message may appear).
- Drive the vehicle at about 50 mph (80 km/h) for 10 minutes to complete the relearn process.
Once the relearn completes, the TPMS warning light should stay off as long as tire pressures remain within specification.
Infotainment system (Uconnect) reset
Sometimes the Uconnect infotainment system benefits from a soft reboot if it’s sluggish or unresponsive. This is typically done without losing essential data.
- With the vehicle in Park, press and hold the power/volume knob (or the appropriate power button) for about 10 seconds until the system restarts.
- If available on your software version, you can perform a Settings-based reset (Settings > System > Reset) to restore certain preferences. Note that this may vary by software and trim; a factory reset is not usually necessary and may erase saved data.
- Allow the system to reboot and verify normal operation of the touchscreen and apps.
If the infotainment continues to misbehave after a soft reset, consult the manual or a dealer for potential software updates or service options.
ECU/engine control module reset after battery work
Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery can cause minor relearns in the engine and transmission control modules. A simple protocol helps ensure the vehicle reinitializes correctly after power is restored.
- Turn off all accessories, then turn the ignition off.
- If you’re performing battery work, disconnect the negative terminal and wait several minutes before reconnecting (this ensures a full power-down).
- Reconnect the negative terminal, start the engine, and drive normally. A short drive at mixed speeds helps the PCM relearn throttle, transmission, and idle characteristics.
- If you notice persistent drivability concerns after battery work, a dealer or mechanic can run a relearn procedure with specialized software.
Battery-related resets can affect radios and security features. If prompted, you may need to re-enter a radio code or re-sync certain settings after reconnecting power.
Summary
Resetting a 2018 Dodge Charger isn’t done with one universal button—drivers typically reset each system separately. Start with oil-life maintenance reminders, then address TPMS, and finally refresh the Uconnect infotainment system if needed. If you’ve recently serviced the battery or tires, allow time for the vehicle to relearn and recheck for any warning lights. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or contact a dealer to ensure you reset correctly for your exact trim and software version.
