What causes maintenance light to come on?
The maintenance light on your vehicle's dashboard is designed to alert you to issues that require attention, such as problems with the engine, transmission, or other critical systems. When this light illuminates, it's important to take action to diagnose and address the underlying cause to prevent further damage or more costly repairs.
Common Causes of the Maintenance Light
There are several common reasons why the maintenance light may come on in your vehicle:
- Scheduled Maintenance Interval - The maintenance light may illuminate when it's time for your vehicle's scheduled maintenance, such as an oil change, tire rotation, or other routine service.
- Sensor Malfunction - Issues with various sensors, such as the oxygen sensors, can trigger the maintenance light. These sensors monitor the performance of the engine and other systems.
- Engine Problems - Problems with the engine, such as misfiring cylinders, can cause the maintenance light to come on. This could indicate issues with the spark plugs, fuel injectors, or other engine components.li>
- Transmission Issues - Transmission problems, such as low fluid levels or a malfunctioning solenoid, can also trigger the maintenance light.
- Emissions System Faults - Issues with the vehicle's emissions control system, such as a faulty catalytic converter or evaporative emissions system, can cause the maintenance light to illuminate.
It's important to note that the specific cause of the maintenance light can vary depending on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. If the light comes on, it's best to have a professional technician diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate repair or maintenance recommendations.
Addressing the Maintenance Light
When the maintenance light comes on, the first step is to check your vehicle's owner's manual for guidance on the specific steps to take. In many cases, you may be able to reset the light by performing a simple procedure, such as disconnecting the battery or using a diagnostic tool. However, it's important not to ignore the light, as it's a warning sign that something requires attention.
If the light remains on or continues to come back on, it's best to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can use diagnostic tools to identify the underlying cause and provide the necessary repairs or maintenance to address the issue and turn the light off.
Is it okay to drive with the maintenance light on?
Yes, it's generally okay to drive with the "maintenance required" light on, as it's a reminder for routine service rather than an indicator of an immediate, critical problem. However, you should not ignore it for too long, and you should stop driving if the light is accompanied by other warning lights, unusual sounds, or a decrease in performance. To be safe, schedule an appointment for service to prevent potential future issues.
What to do
- Don't panic: This light is a reminder for regular maintenance, often an oil change, based on mileage or time.
- Check for other lights: If other warning lights, like the "check engine" light, are on, or if you hear strange noises, have your car inspected immediately as it could signal a serious issue.
- Listen to your car: If you notice any changes in performance or feel anything unusual, take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
- Schedule service: Make an appointment for the recommended service to prevent long-term wear and tear or potential breakdowns.
- Reset the light (if applicable): If you have recently completed the service yourself but forgot to reset the light, or if it was reset incorrectly, you can reset it yourself to clear the reminder.
Can AutoZone tell me why my maintenance required light is on?
Visit Your Local AutoZone Store for Free Fix Finder Service
AutoZone offers a complimentary Fix Finder service that efficiently diagnoses warning lights, including Check Engine, ABS, and maintenance indicators.
Can a bad battery cause maintenance required light to come on?
Yes -- a weak or failing battery can cause the check engine light (CEL) to illuminate.
What triggers maintenance required light?
The "maintenance required" light triggers based on a predetermined mileage interval, typically set by the manufacturer for routine service like oil changes and tire rotations. It is a reminder and not a warning of a mechanical problem, like the check engine light, and it indicates the car needs a check-up around every 5,000 miles. If the light isn't reset after service, it will come on again at the next mileage interval.
This video explains what a maintenance required light is and how to reset it: 56sScotty KilmerYouTube · Nov 18, 2014
What triggers the light
- Mileage intervals: The system is programmed to count the miles driven since the last service reset and illuminate the light after a specific distance, commonly around 5,000 miles.
- Approaching service: As you approach the mileage limit, the light may begin to flash briefly to alert you that service is due soon.
- After service: The light will stay on after it has reached the set mileage. If the light is not manually reset after an oil change or other service, it will continue to illuminate, as the car doesn't monitor the actual oil quality itself.
What it means and what to do
- Routine maintenance: A solid maintenance light means your vehicle is due for routine tasks like an oil and filter change, tire rotation, and fluid inspection.
- Do not confuse with check engine light: The maintenance light is not related to the check engine light, which indicates an actual fault in the engine or emissions system.
- Reset the light: After performing the service, you must reset the light. The process varies by vehicle but typically involves using a button on the dashboard to cycle through the display options and hold it down while turning the ignition on. Your vehicle's owner's manual will have the specific instructions for your model.
