Resetting the engine oil light on your 2013 Honda Accord is simple and can be done without visiting a mechanic. This guide walks you through the exact steps using the dashboard controls, ensuring your maintenance reminder is cleared safely and correctly.
Key Takeaways
- No special tools needed: You can reset the oil light using only the buttons on your dashboard and instrument cluster.
- Timing matters: Always reset the oil light after an oil change to keep your maintenance schedule accurate.
- Two methods available: Use either the standard button sequence or the trip meter method depending on your trim level.
- Confirm the reset: Watch for the oil light to flash or turn off completely to ensure the reset was successful.
- Avoid common mistakes: Don’t press the gas pedal or turn the ignition too quickly—follow each step carefully.
- Regular maintenance is key: Resetting the light is just one part of keeping your Accord running smoothly.
- When to seek help: If the light won’t reset or comes back on frequently, it may signal a deeper issue.
How to Reset Engine Oil Light 2013 Honda Accord
Keeping up with regular oil changes is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your 2013 Honda Accord. Not only does clean oil keep your engine running smoothly, but it also helps prevent costly repairs down the road. After every oil change—whether you do it yourself or go to a service center—there’s one more step you shouldn’t skip: resetting the engine oil light.
This little warning light on your dashboard isn’t just a nag—it’s a helpful reminder that tracks your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. But if you don’t reset it after an oil change, it’ll keep blinking or stay on, which can be distracting and confusing. The good news? Resetting the engine oil light on a 2013 Honda Accord is quick, easy, and requires no special tools. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step, so you can do it confidently from the comfort of your driveway.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time car owner, this guide is designed to be simple, clear, and stress-free. We’ll explain exactly what the oil light means, why it needs to be reset, and how to do it safely and correctly. You’ll also learn troubleshooting tips in case something doesn’t go as planned. By the end, you’ll know how to reset the engine oil light like a pro—and keep your Honda Accord in top shape for years to come.
Understanding the Engine Oil Light
Visual guide about How to Reset Engine Oil Light 2013 Honda Accord
Image source: hondatheotherside.com
Before we dive into the reset process, it’s important to understand what the engine oil light actually does. On the 2013 Honda Accord, this light—often labeled “MAINT REQD” or “OIL”—is part of the vehicle’s maintenance minder system. Unlike older cars that rely on mileage alone, the Accord uses a computer algorithm that monitors driving conditions, engine temperature, RPMs, and other factors to determine when an oil change is needed.
When the system calculates that it’s time for service, the light will illuminate on your dashboard, usually as a yellow or orange icon. It’s not an emergency warning like the red oil pressure light (which means low oil pressure and requires immediate attention), but rather a reminder that routine maintenance is due.
The light will stay on until you manually reset it, even after you’ve changed the oil. That’s why resetting it is such an important step—it tells the car’s computer that the service has been completed and starts a new countdown for the next oil change.
Ignoring the reset won’t harm your engine, but it can make it harder to track when your next service is due. Plus, a constantly glowing light can be annoying and may mask other important warnings. So, resetting the oil light isn’t just about convenience—it’s about staying on top of your car’s health.
When to Reset the Oil Light
You should reset the engine oil light on your 2013 Honda Accord immediately after every oil change. This includes both professional services and DIY oil changes. The reset tells the car’s computer that fresh oil has been installed and resets the maintenance countdown.
It’s best to reset the light before you start driving again after the oil change. That way, you won’t forget, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your maintenance schedule is up to date.
Some people wonder if they can reset the light before changing the oil—technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Doing so would give you a false sense of security and could lead to delayed maintenance, which puts your engine at risk.
Also, if you’ve recently had your oil changed at a dealership or repair shop and the light is still on, don’t panic. Sometimes technicians forget to reset it. You can easily do it yourself using the steps below.
Tools and Preparation
The great thing about resetting the oil light on a 2013 Honda Accord is that you don’t need any special tools. All you need is your car key and about two minutes of your time.
Here’s what to do before you begin:
- Park your car on a flat surface: Make sure the vehicle is in “Park” (for automatics) or in gear with the parking brake engaged (for manuals).
- Turn off the engine: The reset process requires the ignition to be in specific positions, so start with the engine completely off.
- Ensure the oil has been changed: Double-check that the oil and filter have been replaced. Resetting the light won’t help if the oil is still old or low.
- Locate the dashboard controls: Familiarize yourself with the trip meter button (usually on the instrument cluster) and the “Select/Reset” knob (on some trims).
Once you’re ready, you can begin the reset process. There are two common methods, depending on your Accord’s trim level and instrument cluster design. We’ll cover both so you can choose the one that matches your vehicle.
Method 1: Using the Trip Meter Button (Most Common)
This is the most widely used method for resetting the oil light on a 2013 Honda Accord. It works on most trims, including LX, EX, EX-L, and V6 models. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Turn the Ignition to “ON”
Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine—just turn it so that the dashboard lights up. You should see all the warning lights illuminate briefly, including the oil light.
Step 2: Navigate to the Trip Meter
On the instrument cluster, locate the trip meter button. It’s usually a small button near the speedometer, labeled “TRIP” or “TRIP A/B.” Press and hold this button.
While holding the button, watch the trip meter display. It should cycle through different readings (like Trip A, Trip B, and odometer). Keep holding the button until you see the oil life percentage or “MAINT REQD” message appear.
Step 3: Reset the Oil Life
Once the oil life percentage is displayed (e.g., “15%”), continue holding the trip meter button. After about 10 seconds, the display should start flashing. This means the system is ready to reset.
Keep holding the button until the oil life percentage resets to 100% or the “MAINT REQD” message disappears. This usually takes another 5–10 seconds.
Step 4: Turn Off the Ignition
Release the trip meter button and turn the ignition back to the “OFF” position. Wait a few seconds, then start your car. The oil light should now be off, and your maintenance minder should show 100% oil life.
Method 2: Using the Select/Reset Knob (For Some EX and EX-L Trims)
Some higher-trim 2013 Honda Accords come with a “Select/Reset” knob on the dashboard, usually located to the left of the steering wheel. If your car has this feature, you can use it to reset the oil light.
Step 1: Turn the Ignition to “ON”
As with the first method, turn the key to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
Step 2: Access the Maintenance Menu
Press and hold the “Select/Reset” knob. While holding it, watch the display on the instrument cluster. It should show various menu options, including “Oil Life” or “Maintenance.”
Use the knob to navigate to the oil life screen. You may need to press it in or turn it slightly to scroll through the options.
Step 3: Reset the Oil Life
Once you’re on the oil life screen, continue holding the “Select/Reset” knob. After a few seconds, the oil life percentage should start flashing.
Keep holding the knob until the percentage resets to 100%. This confirms that the oil light has been successfully reset.
Step 4: Turn Off and Restart
Release the knob, turn the ignition off, and then start your car. The oil light should no longer be illuminated.
Verifying the Reset
After completing either method, it’s important to verify that the reset was successful. Here’s how:
- Check the dashboard: When you start the car, the oil light should not appear. If it does, the reset may not have worked.
- Look at the oil life percentage: If your Accord displays oil life, it should now read 100%.
- Drive for a few minutes: Sometimes the system takes a short drive cycle to fully register the reset. If the light comes back on after driving, try the reset process again.
If the light remains off and the oil life shows 100%, congratulations—you’ve successfully reset the engine oil light!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with clear instructions, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
The Oil Light Won’t Reset
If you’ve followed the steps correctly but the light won’t turn off, try these fixes:
- Repeat the process: Turn the ignition off, wait 10 seconds, and try again. Sometimes the timing needs to be exact.
- Check the oil level: Low oil can trigger the light. Use the dipstick to verify the oil is at the correct level.
- Ensure the oil filter is properly installed: A loose or missing oil filter can cause issues.
- Try a different method: If one method doesn’t work, switch to the other (e.g., from trip meter to Select/Reset knob).
The Light Comes Back On After Reset
If the oil light resets but comes back on after driving, it could mean:
- The oil change wasn’t completed: Double-check that fresh oil and a new filter were installed.
- A sensor issue: The oil pressure sensor or maintenance minder sensor may be faulty. This requires professional diagnosis.
- Electrical glitch: Disconnect the battery for 10 minutes to reset the car’s computer, then try the reset again.
The Dashboard Doesn’t Respond
If pressing the buttons doesn’t change the display:
- Check the ignition position: Make sure it’s in “ON” and not “ACC” or “START.”
- Try a different button: Some Accords have multiple buttons—try the one closest to the speedometer.
- Consult the owner’s manual: Your specific model may have unique instructions.
Tips for Maintaining Your 2013 Honda Accord
Resetting the oil light is just one part of keeping your Accord in great condition. Here are a few extra tips to maximize your car’s lifespan:
- Follow the maintenance schedule: Honda recommends oil changes every 7,500 miles or 12 months under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions (like frequent short trips or towing) may require more frequent changes.
- Use the right oil: Always use Honda Genuine Oil or a high-quality synthetic blend that meets Honda’s specifications (typically 0W-20).
- Replace the oil filter: Never reuse an old filter—always install a new one with every oil change.
- Keep records: Note the date and mileage of each oil change. This helps track maintenance and can increase resale value.
- Monitor other fluids: While you’re under the hood, check coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels.
When to See a Mechanic
While resetting the oil light is a simple DIY task, there are times when you should consult a professional:
- The light won’t reset after multiple attempts: This could indicate a software or sensor issue.
- The oil light comes on frequently: If it resets but returns within a few hundred miles, there may be an oil leak or engine problem.
- You notice other warning lights: Red lights (like the check engine light or oil pressure light) require immediate attention.
- You’re unsure about the oil change: If you didn’t perform the oil change yourself, confirm it was done correctly.
A trusted mechanic can diagnose underlying issues and ensure your Accord is running safely.
Conclusion
Resetting the engine oil light on your 2013 Honda Accord is a quick and easy task that every owner should know how to do. By following the steps in this guide, you can keep your maintenance schedule accurate, avoid confusion from a persistent warning light, and ensure your car stays in peak condition.
Whether you use the trip meter button or the Select/Reset knob, the process takes just a few minutes and requires no special tools. Remember to reset the light after every oil change, verify the reset was successful, and keep up with regular maintenance.
Your Honda Accord is built to last—and with proper care, it will serve you well for many miles to come. So the next time that oil light comes on, don’t stress. Just grab your keys, follow these steps, and get back on the road with confidence.