What does the yellow spanner light mean?

The yellow spanner light is a maintenance reminder. It signals that your vehicle is due for scheduled service or is approaching its service interval, not a specific engine fault.

What the light is telling you

In most modern vehicles, a wrench or spanner icon in yellow or orange appears when the onboard computer believes routine maintenance is due. This can cover items such as an oil change, filter replacement, brake inspection, fluid checks, or other factory-recommended checks. The exact service items may vary by make and model, and the symbol is often tied to a mileage and/or time-based schedule. Some cars show a text message alongside the icon (for example, “Service due now” or “Oil change due soon”). The light may reset automatically after service in some systems, while others require a manual reset in the vehicle’s maintenance menu.

Brand and model can affect the precise meaning and reset procedure, so it’s important to consult your owner’s manual or your vehicle’s maintenance screen for specifics. The icon is a warning to plan maintenance rather than a sign of an imminent breakdown.

What to do when the light appears

If you see the yellow spanner light, follow these general steps to determine urgency and take appropriate action.

• Check the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s maintenance menu to see what services are due and when they should be performed.


• Review the trip computer or message center for details on the due maintenance interval, such as oil change, filters, or inspections.


• If maintenance is overdue or due today, schedule a service appointment. If you notice unusual performance, noises, leaks, or other symptoms, reduce driving and seek service sooner.


• Note whether the light remains steady or changes if you drive for a while; some vehicles differentiate between “due soon” and “due now.”

After the service is completed, many cars require the maintenance light to be reset. Always reset according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid misrepresenting the maintenance status.

Brand-specific nuances

The exact meaning and reset steps vary by brand. For example, some brands tie the wrench icon to an oil life percentage and provide a precise reset in the instrument cluster, while others use a broader “maintenance due” message. When in doubt, refer to your owner’s manual or contact a dealer or qualified technician for model-specific guidance.

Resetting the light after service

Reset procedures differ by car, and some modern vehicles manage resets automatically after service. If you need to reset it yourself, use the method specified in your manual. Common approaches include navigating to the maintenance or oil life section in the vehicle’s menu, selecting “Reset,” and confirming. After resetting, turn the ignition off and back on to verify that the light has cleared. Do not reset the light before service is performed, as it can mask overdue maintenance.

Summary

The yellow spanner light is a maintenance reminder indicating that your vehicle’s scheduled service is due or approaching due. It is not a direct engine fault warning. Check the owner’s manual or vehicle maintenance screen for specifics, schedule service when required, and reset the light only after maintenance is completed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Staying on top of maintenance helps protect engine health and overall vehicle reliability.

What does yellow spanner on dashboard mean?

"Yellow Spanner Symbol"
This warning light typically signals an issue with your vehicle's automatic transmission. It may illuminate due to elevated transmission fluid temperature or as a reminder to replenish low fluid levels.

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

Can I drive with a yellow wrench light?

Can You Drive With an Illuminated Wrench Light? Before driving with an illuminated wrench light, you have to figure out what's causing it first. If it's for an oil change or service, then yes, you can drive with one. Otherwise, it's not recommended to take your vehicle out for long periods.

Is it safe to drive with a car and spanner light?

Driving your car when it has a fault or is otherwise not in top condition could seriously compromise the amount of use and enjoyment you get from it. A professional can see what's causing the wrench warning lights to illuminate, and will explain what needs to be done to get your car in better shape.