You’re driving down the highway, and all of a sudden your car displays a message—“Maintenance Required.” It may illuminate on your dashboard, and your initial thought may be, “Oh no, something’s wrong.”
Some people get confused when they read this. The good news is that it doesn’t necessarily signal some dire problem.
This guide will explain what that warning means, why you see it, and what you should do next.
What “Maintenance Required” Actually Means
That message is not a sign of damage or danger. It’s a simple reminder from your car. Nearly all vehicles are programmed to flash this message after a specific mileage. For instance, some cars indicate it every 5,000 miles. Others might use a different figure.
This communication is a Post-it Note on the dashboard of your life. It just lets you know that your car is up for regular maintenance. Think of it as equivalent to your phone telling you that it’s time to charge or update. The car isn’t broken. It’s just saying, “Let’s check a few things.”
It’s Usually About an Oil Change
More often than not, this message comes due to an oil change. The engine oil makes sure the engine parts are properly lubricated. The oil gets dirty with time. Dirty oil, if not replaced, can cause an engine to work harder and wear out more quickly.
If you see the “Maintenance Required” light, your car may be telling you to change the oil. That’s not to say that the oil is empty. It’s just an indication that your car has driven the miles that typically trigger an oil check or change.
It Can Mean Other Things Too
Although an oil change is the most frequent reason, the message can be interpreted to mean a couple of other things, including
- The air filter should be inspected or installed
- Tires need rotation
- Brake pads need inspection
- Fluid levels might be low
- Spark plugs may need cleaning or replacing
Every model of car is a bit different. A few have more detailed alerts, but many still rely on the generic “Maintenance Required” light to encompass these tasks.
It’s Not the Same as “Check Engine”
Many confuse “Maintenance Required” with the “Check Engine” light. This is one thing; that is another thing.
- “Maintenance Required” is a friendly one. It turns on based on time or miles.
- “Check Engine” is a warning. What that means is that the car’s system detected something that could be amiss.
If both lights are visible, start by addressing the “Check Engine” light. That one probably requires faster action.
Can You Keep Driving With the Light On?
Yes, you can. The “Maintenance Required” warning is not saying that your car is unsafe to drive in its current condition. But don’t ignore it. The longer you wait, the more likely a small issue will grow into a bigger one.
If it’s been weeks since you saw the light and you still haven’t had your car serviced afterwards, make an appointment shortly. Consider it like the dentist. One skipped visit may not make a difference, but skipping many visits can lead to trouble.
How To Turn the Message Off
When your car has been serviced, the shop will typically reset the light for you. But if you performed the service yourself, you may wish to disable the reminder manually. Here’s how you can do that:
- Turn the key to the “on” position (but don’t actually start the car).
- You press the tripometer button on the dashboard.
- Turn the key off, then back on while holding the trip meter.
- Continue to hold until the light flashes and goes out.
Specific steps may vary for each type of car. If that doesn’t work, consult the manual. It is supposed to teach you the proper way to reset the message.
Check Your Car’s Manual
Every car is different. Most people use the “change oil” message to prompt an oil change, but your car might use it in a slightly different way. The manual tells you what that light is and what is due.
If you don’t have the manual, you may be able to find it online (usually by googling your car‘s make and model with the words “owner’s manual”).
A Quick Visit to the Mechanic Can Help
Not sure what’s due? Just go to your local mechanic or service shop. They can tell you what your car needs, oil-wise and mileage-wise. Most shops will do quick checks and can fit the work in the same day.
It’s also an opportune moment for asking about other features of the car. Mechanics will also be able to inspect your battery, tires, lights, brakes, fluids, and more at your visit. This helps to catch anything that might need fixing later on.
Regular Maintenance Saves You Money
The health of your car starts with good timing. Failing to change oil, forgetfulness over filters, or neglecting to check fluids can lead to larger problems. And greater problems frequently have higher price tags.
A little service now is always cheaper than a big repair later. This explains why a “Maintenance Required” message appears. It’s not a problem. It’s a friendly nudge to keep your car in tip-top shape.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let “Maintenance Required” scare you when it pops up in your car. It’s often just an alert for routine service, like an oil change. The light is not set off by the damage; it gets triggered by miles. But it’s the kind of thing worth listening to, anyway. A short trip to the mechanic can help keep your vehicle safe and in excellent working order.
Stay on top of basic maintenance, and your car will thank you with fewer breakdowns, smoother drives, and a long life on the road.
