What does an amber spanner light mean?

In most modern cars, an amber spanner or wrench icon on the dashboard signals a maintenance reminder rather than a critical fault. It usually means a service is due or coming up, such as an oil change or routine inspection. Addressing it promptly helps protect the engine and preserve performance.

Interpreting the amber spanner light

The spanner icon is a general maintenance indicator. Its exact meaning can vary by make and model, but the core idea is that the vehicle requires some form of scheduled service soon.

Common interpretations

• Maintenance reminder: The vehicle has reached a point where a service is due or overdue.


• Maintenance due soon: The system estimates you have a limited window before the next service is required.


• Reset required after service: Some systems need a manual reset once service is completed for the light to turn off.


• Not the same as a check engine light: The amber wrench indicates service scheduling, while the engine fault warning is a separate indication.

The items above cover typical behavior across many brands; always consult your owner’s manual for the exact meaning on your model.

How to verify and respond

Before you act, verify what the light means for your specific car and plan your next steps with care.

1. Consult the owner's manual or the vehicle’s maintenance minder/Service Interval Indicator to confirm what prompted the amber wrench light.


2. Check the onboard information display for the next due service, remaining miles, or the time until service is required.


3. Schedule service with a dealer or qualified workshop, prioritizing any item that the system flags (such as an oil change).


4. After service, ensure the reminder is reset according to the manufacturer’s procedure; improper resetting can cause the light to stay on or come back prematurely.


5. If the light remains on after service or you notice unusual symptoms, have the system checked by a mechanic to rule out faults in the maintenance indicator itself.

Following these steps helps ensure you understand what the reminder covers and keeps your vehicle in good condition.

Manufacturer-specific notes

Toyota

In Toyota vehicles, the amber wrench commonly marks the Maintenance Required indicator. It appears after a set distance or time and may require a reset after service. The display can indicate the next service window in miles or months, depending on the model.

Honda

Honda’s Maintenance Minder system uses a wrench icon plus a numeric value representing months or miles left until service. When the number reaches zero, service is due. After servicing, the system is reset to start a new maintenance countdown.

Ford

Ford uses a wrench symbol as a service reminder. It signals that routine maintenance is due and may require a specific reset after service. The exact items and timing are shown in the vehicle’s information display.

Note: Exact meanings, triggering conditions, and reset procedures vary by model year and trim. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.

What to do if the light appears with other warnings

If the amber spanner light comes on alongside a check engine light or other warnings, treat it as a sign that service is needed but also check for more serious faults. Prompt inspection can help prevent surprises during travel or adverse driving conditions.

Summary

An amber spanner light is a maintenance reminder, not a fault indicator. It signals that your vehicle requires scheduled service or is approaching its due date. Check the manual, review your onboard maintenance information, and arrange service with a qualified technician. After service, reset the reminder as instructed. If in doubt, contact a mechanic for a precise diagnosis.

Is it safe to drive with the wrench light on?

You can likely drive with the wrench light on if it only indicates scheduled maintenance, but it is best to schedule a service appointment as soon as possible to avoid damage. However, if the light comes on with other warning lights or the vehicle is running poorly, overheating, or making unusual noises, you should pull over when it is safe and call for a tow. Driving with a more serious issue indicated by the light can lead to more extensive and expensive repairs.
 
If the light indicates routine maintenance

• It is generally safe for short trips: The light may just mean it's time for an oil change, tire rotation, or other scheduled service. 
• Address it soon: Schedule a service appointment as soon as you can to prevent potential wear and tear. 

If the light indicates a serious problem

• Pull over safely: If you notice any changes in your car's performance, pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. 
• Watch for other lights: If the wrench light is on with other warning lights, such as the check engine light, it signifies a more serious issue. 
• Consider towing: If the vehicle is overheating, has reduced power, or is shaking, it's best to avoid driving it further and have it towed to a mechanic. 

What to do next

• Check your owner's manual: Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific meaning of the warning light and any associated codes. 
• Call a professional: Schedule a diagnostic appointment with a mechanic to determine the exact cause of the warning light. 

What is the master warning ⚠?

The master warning light, a triangle with an exclamation mark, is a general warning that indicates a malfunction in one or more of the vehicle's safety or advanced electronic systems. It can signal issues ranging from low windshield washer fluid to serious problems with the engine, brakes, or stability control. When this light appears, you should check the car's display for a specific message and consult the owner's manual to identify the exact problem and determine if it is safe to drive.
 
This video explains what the master warning light means and what actions you should take: 20sToyota of SeattleYouTube · May 3, 2018
Possible causes

• Low fluid levels: Windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, or oil can be a common trigger. 
• System malfunctions: It can indicate a problem with advanced systems like the electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, or power steering. 
• Sensor issues: Faulty sensors related to various systems can also trigger the light. 
• Routine maintenance needed: It can simply be a reminder that a scheduled service is due. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the causes of the master warning light, such as low washer fluid and open doors: 41sMotor MatchupsYouTube · Dec 21, 2024
What to do

1. Check your display: Look at the car's information display for a more specific message that often accompanies the master warning light. 
2. Consult the owner's manual: The manual will provide a guide to all dashboard symbols and explain what the master warning light means for your specific vehicle model. 
3. Check basic fluid levels: If there are no other obvious messages, check your windshield washer fluid, and then your brake fluid. 
4. Do not ignore it: Even if it turns out to be a minor issue, like low washer fluid, it's important to address the cause to turn the light off and prevent future issues. 
5. Seek professional help: If you cannot determine the cause or if the light indicates a serious problem, it is best to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic. 

This video shows how to diagnose and reset the master warning light: 1mDashboard warning lights YouTube · Aug 6, 2025

What does an orange spanner warning light mean?

The spanner is a 'General Fault' message. It can light up when the car needs a service, but you will get a screen message on the cars display if this is reason. It could also indicate a fault with the electrical systems, the pedal sensors, 12V battery or problems with the charging system. Seek professional advice.

Can you still drive with an amber engine light?

You can likely drive with a steady yellow check engine light on, especially if the car is running normally, but you should have it checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. A flashing yellow light is a more serious warning, and you should pull over immediately and avoid driving to prevent significant damage to your vehicle.
 
This video explains what to do when your check engine light comes on: 58sTorqueCarsYouTube · Apr 24, 2023
If the light is steady (solid yellow)

• It's likely a minor issue: A steady light often indicates a non-urgent problem, such as a loose gas cap, a faulty oxygen sensor, or spark plug issues. 
• Pay attention to your car's performance: Continue driving cautiously, but keep an eye on your dashboard for other warning lights (like oil or temperature) and listen for unusual sounds. 
• Schedule an appointment: Get the car diagnosed by a professional soon to prevent a small problem from becoming a larger, more expensive one. 

If the light is flashing

• This is an emergency: A flashing light signals a severe problem, such as a severe engine misfire. 
• Stop driving immediately: Pull over to a safe location as soon as you can and turn off the engine. 
• Do not continue to drive: Continuing to drive could cause severe and costly damage, such as a destroyed catalytic converter. 
• Call for a tow: Arrange for the vehicle to be towed to a repair shop for diagnosis and repair.