What is what to do when maintenance required light comes on?

The "Maintenance Required" light is a general reminder that your vehicle is due for scheduled maintenance. It's not the same as the "Check Engine" light, which indicates a problem with your engine or emissions system.

Here's what you should do when the "Maintenance Required" light comes on:

• Consult Your Owner's Manual: This is the most important step. Your owner's manual outlines the recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle. It will tell you exactly what services are due based on your mileage. Look for the section on <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/recommended%20maintenance%20schedule">recommended maintenance schedule</a>.

• Identify the Required Maintenance: Common maintenance items triggered by this light include:

  • Oil Change: Most vehicles have a mileage-based or time-based interval for <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/oil%20change">oil change</a>.
  • Tire Rotation: Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly and extends their lifespan. Check the manual for <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/tire%20rotation">tire rotation</a> intervals.
  • Fluid Checks and Top-offs: This might include checking and topping off fluids like coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. See <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/fluid%20checks">fluid checks</a>.
  • Filter Replacements: Air filters and cabin air filters need regular replacement. Look for details about <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/air%20filter%20replacement">air filter replacement</a> in the manual.
  • Spark Plug Replacement: At higher mileages, spark plugs may need replacement. Consult the manual for <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/spark%20plug%20replacement">spark plug replacement</a> intervals.
  • Inspection of various components: Inspection of brake pads/shoes, hoses, belts and other important systems.

• Schedule Service: Once you know what maintenance is required, schedule a service appointment with your trusted mechanic or dealership. If you're comfortable performing some maintenance tasks yourself (like oil changes or air filter replacements), you can do so.

• Reset the Light: After the maintenance is performed, you'll need to reset the "Maintenance Required" light. The reset procedure varies depending on the vehicle. Consult your owner's manual for the specific steps on how to <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/reset%20maintenance%20light">reset maintenance light</a>. Many vehicles involve a combination of turning the ignition on and off and pressing certain buttons on the dashboard.

• Don't Ignore It for Too Long: While it's not an emergency like the "Check Engine" light, neglecting maintenance can lead to more significant problems down the road. Address the required maintenance as soon as possible.