What does the car with the tool symbol on the dashboard mean on a Chevy Equinox?
The wrench icon on a Chevy Equinox dashboard is a maintenance reminder indicating that scheduled service is due or needs attention. It is not a fault or engine warning light.
Understanding the wrench icon
The wrench, or tool, is part of General Motors’ Maintenance Reminder System. When illuminated, it signals that your Equinox is due for routine maintenance or a specific service item defined in the vehicle’s maintenance schedule. It may appear alone or with a message such as “Service Vehicle Soon” in the Driver Information Center.
Messages you might see
Alongside the wrench icon, you may encounter messages like:
- Service Vehicle Soon
- Maintenance Due—Check owner's manual for specifics
- Oil Life decreasing or specific service item alerts (brakes, tires, filters, etc.)
Common maintenance items that can trigger the wrench icon include routine services or checks listed in the maintenance schedule.
Resetting or clearing the light
After you complete the required maintenance, the indicator light is often reset either by the owner or a dealer using the vehicle’s maintenance menu or a scan tool. The exact reset procedure can vary by model year, so refer to the owner’s manual or ask a Chevrolet dealer to perform the reset if you’re unsure.
What to do next
When you see the wrench symbol, you should verify which maintenance items are due and arrange service if needed. Do not ignore the warning if you notice related driving symptoms; in rare cases, a reminder can be triggered by a fault in the reminder system itself.
- Check the maintenance schedule for your specific Equinox model year to identify due items (oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, fluid top-offs, etc.).
- Use the vehicle’s information display to view the current maintenance items or oil life status.
- Schedule service or perform the due maintenance items as recommended by GM/Chevrolet.
- After completing maintenance, reset the reminder if applicable, following the manual or dealer guidance.
Keeping up with the maintenance items tied to the wrench icon helps protect reliability, safety, and resale value. If the light reappears after service, or if you notice other warning lights, contact a Chevrolet dealership or qualified mechanic for a diagnostic check.
Summary
The wrench symbol on the Chevy Equinox dashboard is a maintenance reminder, not a fault indicator. It signals that scheduled service is due or a maintenance item needs attention. Verify the due items, perform or schedule them, and reset the reminder after service if required. When in doubt, consult your owner's manual or contact a Chevrolet service center for precise guidance tailored to your model year.
What does the car with a wrench symbol mean?
The wrench symbol on a car dashboard typically means it's time for service or maintenance. However, the exact meaning can vary by manufacturer; for some, it indicates a specific problem with the powertrain or transmission. If the light is on with no other symbols, it's likely a routine service reminder, like an oil change. If it appears with another warning light, such as the check engine light, it suggests a more serious issue.
What to do
- If the light is solid and no other symbols are on: This is usually a basic maintenance reminder. You can likely drive for a short period, but it's best to schedule an appointment soon to check fluids, filters, or other needs.
- If the light is solid and another warning light is on: This indicates a serious malfunction with the system the other light represents. For example, a wrench light with the check engine light means there's a problem with the engine.
- If the light is flashing: This signifies a critical issue. Stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so and call for roadside assistance. Continuing to drive could cause more damage.
- Check your owner's manual: Your car's manual will provide the most specific information on what the wrench light means for your make and model and what steps you should take.
Common causes
- Routine maintenance: The most common reason is that your car is due for scheduled maintenance, such as an oil change or tire rotation.
- Powertrain or transmission problems: On some vehicles, especially certain models like Fords, it can indicate a fault with the transmission, engine, or four-wheel-drive system.
- Electronic throttle control (ETC) issues: A problem with the ETC system can trigger this light, leading to performance issues.
- Sensor malfunctions: Modern cars use sensors to monitor performance. A faulty sensor can activate the wrench light.
What does the wrench light mean on a Chevy Equinox?
Service Reminder Indicator
If you see a car with a wrench light up on your dashboard or a car symbol with “Service” illuminated, it's time for your routine maintenance.
What could cause the wrench light to appear?
A faulty throttle position sensor may send incorrect data to the PCM and cause the engine to malfunction, which will illuminate the wrench symbol. Similarly, a dirty throttle body may also obstruct airflow into the engine, resulting in similar issues.
Can I drive my car 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.
