How to Reset My Engine Oil Light

Resetting your engine oil light is a simple but essential task after an oil change. This guide walks you through the process for most vehicles, helping you avoid confusion and keep your dashboard clear.

Key Takeaways

• Always reset the oil light after an oil change: This ensures your vehicle’s maintenance reminder system works correctly and alerts you when the next change is due.
• Check your owner’s manual first: Reset procedures vary by make, model, and year. The manual is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle.
• Use the dashboard controls or ignition key: Most modern cars allow you to reset the oil light using buttons on the instrument panel or steering wheel.
• Don’t ignore a persistent oil light: If the light stays on after resetting, it could signal low oil pressure or a sensor issue—get it checked immediately.
• Resetting won’t fix mechanical problems: The oil light reset only clears the reminder. It doesn’t replace actual oil or fix engine issues.
• Practice patience and precision: Some reset sequences require exact timing. Rushing can cause you to miss a step.
• Keep a reset log: Note the date and mileage each time you reset the light to track your maintenance schedule.

How to Reset My Engine Oil Light: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve just changed your engine oil—great job! But now, that pesky oil light is still glowing on your dashboard like a stubborn reminder that won’t go away. Don’t worry. You’re not alone. Many drivers face this issue after an oil change, and the solution is usually simple: resetting the oil light.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to reset your engine oil light safely and correctly. Whether you’ve done your own oil change or visited a mechanic, resetting the light ensures your car’s maintenance system stays accurate. We’ll cover the most common methods for popular car brands, troubleshoot common problems, and give you practical tips to avoid mistakes.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently reset your oil light in under five minutes—no tools required. Let’s get started!

Why Resetting the Oil Light Matters

The engine oil light on your dashboard isn’t just a random warning. It’s part of your vehicle’s onboard maintenance reminder system. This system tracks your driving habits, mileage, and engine conditions to estimate when your next oil change is due.

When you change your oil, the system still “thinks” the old oil is in place. That’s why the light stays on. Resetting it tells the car: “Hey, I’ve got fresh oil—start counting again!”

If you don’t reset the light, you might get a false reminder too soon—or worse, miss a real one later. Over time, this can lead to delayed oil changes, which may cause engine wear or damage.

Think of it like resetting a stopwatch after a race. The timer keeps running unless you press reset. Your car’s oil life monitor works the same way.

Plus, a clean dashboard just feels better. No one likes staring at a warning light that shouldn’t be there.

When Should You Reset the Oil Light?

You should reset your engine oil light every time you change your oil—whether you do it yourself or go to a service center.

Here are the most common scenarios:

• After a DIY oil change: You’ve drained the old oil, replaced the filter, and added fresh oil. Now it’s time to reset the light.
• After a professional oil change: Many mechanics reset the light for you, but not all. Always check your dashboard before driving away.
• After topping off oil: If you only added oil (didn’t change it), you usually don’t need to reset the light. But if the system tracks oil level, it might still need a reset.
• After replacing the oil filter only: Some systems require a reset even if you only changed the filter.

Bottom line: If you’ve performed any oil-related maintenance, it’s safe to reset the light to keep your system accurate.

Tools and Preparation

The good news? You don’t need any special tools to reset your engine oil light. Most modern vehicles use electronic systems that you can access through the dashboard or ignition.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your car keys: You’ll need to turn the ignition on and off.
• Access to the driver’s seat: You’ll be using buttons on the steering wheel, dashboard, or center console.
• Your owner’s manual: This is your best friend. It contains the exact reset procedure for your vehicle.

Before you begin:

• Make sure the engine is off.
• Ensure the oil has been changed and the oil cap is securely tightened.
• Check that the oil level is correct using the dipstick.

Never reset the oil light if you haven’t actually changed the oil. That would defeat the purpose of the reminder system.

General Reset Method (For Most Vehicles)

While every car is different, many follow a similar pattern. Here’s a universal method that works for a wide range of vehicles, especially those from the 2000s onward.

Step 1: Turn the Ignition to “On” (But Don’t Start the Engine)

Insert your key and turn it to the “ON” position. You’ll see the dashboard lights come on, including the oil light. Do not start the engine—just leave it in the “ON” position.

This powers up the car’s computer system without running the engine.

Step 2: Locate the Trip/Odometer Button

Look for a button on your dashboard or steering column labeled “Trip,” “Odometer,” or “Reset.” This button is usually near the speedometer or on the turn signal stalk.

Press and hold this button.

Step 3: Turn the Ignition to “Off” While Holding the Button

While still holding the trip button, turn the key back to the “OFF” position.

Keep holding the button for about 10–15 seconds.

Step 4: Turn the Ignition Back to “On”

Turn the key back to “ON” (still not starting the engine) while continuing to hold the trip button.

Watch the oil light. It should begin to blink or turn off after a few seconds.

Step 5: Release the Button and Check

Once the oil light turns off or starts blinking, release the button.

Turn the ignition off, then start the engine. The oil light should now be off.

If it’s still on, try the process again. Timing is important—don’t rush.

This method works for many Honda, Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet models. But always check your manual first.

Resetting the Oil Light by Car Brand

Since every manufacturer designs their systems differently, here are specific instructions for popular brands.

Toyota and Lexus

For most Toyota and Lexus vehicles (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON” (do not start).
• Press the trip button to display “Trip A” or “Trip B.”
• Turn the ignition to “OFF.”
• Hold the trip button and turn the ignition back to “ON.”
• Keep holding until the oil light blinks or turns off (about 10 seconds).
• Release and turn off the ignition.

For newer models with touchscreens, you may need to go into the “Vehicle Settings” menu and select “Maintenance Reset.”

Honda and Acura

For Honda and Acura (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON.”
• Press and hold the trip button until the oil life percentage appears.
• Continue holding until the percentage starts to blink.
• Release and press the button again within 5 seconds.
• Hold it until the percentage resets to 100%.

On newer models, use the steering wheel controls to navigate to “Settings” > “Vehicle” > “Maintenance” > “Reset.”

Ford and Lincoln

For Ford and Lincoln (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON.”
• Press the brake and accelerator pedals all the way down at the same time.
• Hold for 20 seconds.
• The oil light should flash or turn off.
• Release the pedals and turn off the ignition.

Note: This method only works if the vehicle is in “Service Mode.” Some models require using the message center to confirm the reset.

Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac

For GM vehicles (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON.”
• Use the steering wheel buttons to go to “Oil Life” in the driver info center.
• Press and hold the “Check” or “OK” button until the oil life resets to 100%.

On older models, you may need to use the trip odometer button and follow a similar sequence to the general method.

BMW

For BMW (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON” (press start button without foot on brake).
• Press the odometer reset button on the instrument cluster.
• Turn the ignition off while holding the button.
• Turn it back on while still holding.
• Release when the oil light blinks.

Newer BMWs use iDrive: Go to “Vehicle Info” > “Vehicle Status” > “Reset Service.”

Mercedes-Benz

For Mercedes (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON.”
• Press the gas pedal three times within 10 seconds.
• The oil light should flash or reset.

Alternatively, use the menu: “Service” > “Oil” > “Reset.”

Nissan and Infiniti

For Nissan and Infiniti (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON.”
• Press the trip button to cycle to “Oil Life.”
• Press and hold the button for 5–10 seconds until it resets.

Some models require going into the settings menu via the steering wheel controls.

Volkswagen and Audi

For VW and Audi (2000–2020):

• Turn the ignition to “ON.”
• Press and hold the trip reset button.
• Turn the ignition off while holding.
• Turn it back on while still holding.
• Release when the oil light blinks.

Newer models use the MMI system: “Car” > “Settings” > “Service” > “Reset.”

Using the Infotainment System (Modern Cars)

Many newer vehicles (2015 and later) allow you to reset the oil light through the touchscreen or infotainment system.

Here’s how:

• Turn on the ignition.
• Navigate to the “Settings” or “Vehicle” menu.
• Look for “Maintenance,” “Service,” or “Oil Life.”
• Select “Reset” or “Confirm Oil Change.”
• Follow the on-screen prompts.

For example, on a 2022 Honda Accord:

• Press the “Home” button.
• Go to “Settings” > “Vehicle” > “Maintenance.”
• Tap “Oil Life” and select “Reset.”

This method is user-friendly and reduces the risk of error. But if your screen freezes or the option isn’t there, fall back to the manual method.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, the oil light won’t reset—even when you follow the steps correctly. Here’s what to do.

The Light Won’t Turn Off

If the oil light stays on after resetting:

• Double-check the oil level: Low oil can trigger the light. Use the dipstick to confirm it’s full.
• Inspect the oil cap: A loose or missing cap can cause pressure issues. Make sure it’s tight.
• Verify the oil filter: A poorly installed filter can leak or restrict flow.
• Wait a few minutes: Some systems take time to recognize the reset.

The Light Flashes or Blinks

A blinking oil light usually means the reset was partially successful. Try the process again, paying close attention to timing.

If it keeps blinking, the system may need a “hard reset”—turning the car off for 10 minutes to let the computer reboot.

The Reset Procedure Doesn’t Work

If nothing happens:

• Consult your owner’s manual: You might have missed a step or used the wrong button.
• Check for software updates: Some cars require a dealer update to fix glitches.
• Try a different method: If the trip button doesn’t work, try the infotainment system or pedal method.

The Light Comes Back On After Driving

If the oil light returns after a short drive, it could indicate a real problem:

• Low oil pressure: This is serious. Pull over and check the oil. If it’s low, top it up. If it’s full, call a mechanic.
• Faulty oil pressure sensor: A bad sensor can send false signals. Have it tested.
• Oil pump issues: If the pump isn’t circulating oil properly, the light will stay on.

Never ignore a persistent oil light. It could save your engine from costly damage.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

Resetting your oil light is simple, but a few precautions can prevent problems.

• Always change the oil first: Don’t reset the light unless you’ve actually changed the oil.
• Use the correct oil type: Check your manual for the right viscosity (e.g., 5W-30).
• Replace the oil filter: A new filter ensures clean oil circulation.
• Don’t rush the process: Timing matters. Hold buttons for the full duration.
• Keep records: Note the date, mileage, and oil type used. This helps track maintenance.
• Reset after every change: Even if the light is off, resetting ensures accuracy.

Also, avoid using aftermarket “oil life reset tools” unless recommended by your dealer. They can interfere with your car’s computer.

When to See a Mechanic

Most oil light resets can be done at home. But sometimes, professional help is needed.

Visit a mechanic if:

• The oil light won’t reset after multiple attempts.
• The light comes on while driving, even with full oil.
• You hear unusual engine noises (knocking, ticking).
• The oil appears dirty or smells burnt.
• Your car has over 100,000 miles and hasn’t had regular oil changes.

A mechanic can diagnose sensor issues, oil pump problems, or internal engine wear that a reset can’t fix.

Conclusion

Resetting your engine oil light is a quick and easy way to keep your vehicle’s maintenance system accurate. Whether you use the trip button, steering wheel controls, or infotainment system, the process takes just a few minutes.

Remember: Resetting the light doesn’t replace the oil—it just tells your car the oil has been changed. Always pair the reset with a proper oil change for the best engine protection.

By following this guide, you’ll avoid dashboard confusion, stay on top of maintenance, and extend the life of your engine. Keep your owner’s manual handy, stay patient, and don’t ignore warning signs.

Now go ahead—reset that light and enjoy a cleaner, quieter dashboard!