What is the wrench symbol on my Honda?
The wrench symbol on a Honda is a maintenance reminder light, signaling that scheduled service is due or approaching. It is not a fault code or engine warning.
What the wrench symbol means in practice
Honda uses the Maintenance Minder system to track your vehicle’s service needs. When the wrench icon appears, plan service based on the current maintenance schedule and oil-life indicators. The message may come with an oil-life percentage or the letters A/B that denote a service package, depending on the model year.
To help you navigate this reminder, here are common reasons the wrench light shows up and what you should do next.
- Oil life is low and an oil change is recommended.
- Other maintenance items may be due at the same time, such as tire rotation, brake fluid, or a multipoint inspection.
- Some models use A/B maintenance codes to represent different service packages; check your owner’s manual for your exact items.
- The warning can reflect a time-based or mileage-based schedule, or after a service has been performed until the system is reset.
- If the wrench light stays on or appears alongside other warning lights, have the vehicle checked by a qualified technician.
In short, this icon is a routine maintenance reminder rather than a diagnostic fault, and addressing it on schedule helps keep the car running smoothly.
Maintenance Minder codes and what they mean
Different Honda models and years convey service needs with a mix of oil-life percentages and A/B codes. Here’s how to interpret what you might see on your dashboard:
- Oil-life percentage (for example, Oil Life 15%): An oil change is due soon; plan to service before it reaches 0%.
- A or B maintenance codes: Indicate a package of services (A usually for basic maintenance like an oil change with basic checks; B adds items such as tire rotation and additional inspections). Check your manual for your exact sequence and items.
- Maintenance Required (MAINT REQD) or a wrench icon with text: A general reminder to service; it may appear alone or with other indicators.
Because codes and triggers vary by model and year, a quick consult with your Honda dealer or the owner’s manual will give you the exact items due for your vehicle.
What to do if the wrench light turns on
If the wrench symbol lights up, start by confirming whether the oil life is low or if a maintenance item is due. If you’re within the scheduled maintenance window, schedule service promptly. If the oil level is low, top it up and check for leaks; if the light remains after topping up, seek professional service.
- Check the instrument display for the current maintenance status (oil-life percentage or A/B code).
- Consult your owner's manual or the Maintenance Minder menu on the dash for what items are due.
- Schedule service with a dealer or trusted shop to complete the required maintenance.
- If the light stays on after service or you notice abnormal symptoms, have the vehicle inspected promptly.
Note: Do not ignore this reminder; routine maintenance can prevent bigger issues and help keep your warranty valid.
Resetting the wrench light after service
Most Honda models allow you to reset the Maintenance Minder after completing service, but the procedure can vary by year and trim. Do not reset unless service has actually been performed, or it may obscure overdue maintenance.
- Turn the ignition to ON (do not start the engine).
- Navigate to the Maintenance Minder or Oil Life screen using the steering wheel controls or central dial.
- Hold the SELECT/RESET button (or the equivalent control) until the oil-life percentage returns to 100% or the display confirms reset.
- Turn the ignition off, then start the engine to confirm the reset took effect.
If you’re unsure of the exact steps for your model year, consult the owner’s manual or a Honda service advisor before attempting a reset.
Summary
On Hondas, the wrench symbol is a maintenance reminder tied to the Maintenance Minder system. It signals that oil changes or other scheduled service are due or upcoming. By understanding whether the display shows an oil-life percentage or A/B service codes, you can plan appropriate maintenance before issues arise. When in doubt, contact a Honda service center for a precise interpretation and service plan.
