How to Get Rid of the Change Oil Light: Quick Fixes

That annoying little "change oil" light on your dash may be intimidating if you are not sure what it is trying to tell you or what you should do about it. Thankfully, dealing with this common car maintenance signal need not be a burden. Knowing what your car is trying to tell you and a few simple procedures can make handling this ordeal second nature. The good news is that you can contact Arrowhead Imports for auto repair in Peoria whenever you’re in need.

This guide will delve deeper into everything you'll ever need to know about the change oil light, from what it actually means all the way through to last-minute repairs you might attempt yourself, until when you might need to call in for specialist assistance. If you're wondering how to get rid of the change oil light, this guide will help.

Reading Your "Change Oil" Light

The change oil light is a pre-programmed reminder system for your vehicle. Most modern vehicles come equipped with an oil life sensor system which takes a number of factors such as mileage, engine heat, as well as driving habits, and calculates when you should change your oil.

When this light appears, it doesn't necessarily mean your engine is in immediate danger. Instead, it's your car's way of saying that the oil has reached the point where it should be changed soon to maintain optimal engine performance. The light typically appears when your oil life reaches somewhere between 5% and 15% remaining.

Different vehicles show this message in varying forms. Some show an actual oil can symbol, while some show a notation such as "Oil Life" or "Change Oil Soon." Some newer vehicles show a percentage or a statement for maintenance on the gauge display screen. If you're looking for guidance on how to reset an oil change reminder, keep reading.

Pre-Inspection Checks When Visible Light is Prominent

You should make these basic checks first of all before you do anything. First, safely pull over and turn off your engine. Let it rest for a few minutes so that the oil gets a chance to settle before you check it with the dipstick for your level. Low levels can make warning lights come on because they can become a significant threat for your engine.

If your oil level appears normal, consider your recent driving habits and maintenance history. Have you been driving in particularly harsh conditions like stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures? These factors can cause oil to break down faster than normal.

See your owner's manual for specific information regarding when you should change your car's oil. Some vehicles are okay at 7,500- to 10,000-mile intervals between changes, while some vehicles need more frequent service.

Manual Turn-Off of Light

If you recently had an oil change but still experience the light, you might need to manually reset an oil change light. It differs based on make and model vehicle, but here are some standard procedures.

For most vehicles, use this routine: Switch ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine. Step on the gas pedal three times in five seconds. Switch ignition off, then begin your vehicle to determine if light is gone. Following these steps is a typical change oil light reset process.

Some vehicles ask you to access the dash menu system. See if you can find items such as "Settings," "Vehicle Info," or "Maintenance" and whether there is an option for an oil life reset.

For vehicles that have a trip odometer button, you would need to press such a button while you engage the ignition, releasing it when you see a flash of a light. This is another approach to resetting an oil change light.

How a Mechanic Can Help

While a manual reset is feasible, in certain situations expertise is worth it. If you do not feel comfortable performing the reset action or if you observe the effect coming back shortly after you reset it, a mechanic at Arrowhead Imports can diagnose potential issues in the works.

A technician can also assure you had a proper oil change and that you received the correct type of oil for your specific vehicle. Your technician has access to manufacturer-specific reset procedures in addition to diagnostic software that is capable of identifying problems beyond routine maintenance reminders.

Preventative Maintenance Advice

Preventing future oil light issues starts with establishing a regular maintenance schedule. Keep detailed records of your oil changes, including dates and mileage. This helps you anticipate when the next change is due.

Choose a good grade oil within specs for the manufacturer, and don't go longer than recommended change intervals even if no light appears yet. Regular maintenance prevents costly repair later on and still keeps you rolling.

Make Your Engine Happy

The change oil light is an automobile's thoughtful warning system, not a cause for panic. Knowing what it is and what to do about it enables you to take proper care of your vehicle while reducing undue stress. Remember, if in doubt, call Arrowhead Imports and our friendly team will help!