Seeing that oil maintenance light on your Honda Accord’s dashboard can be a bit of a worry. Don’t stress, it’s not an alarm for immediate danger, but a helpful reminder that your car is due for service. This guide will show you exactly How To Reset Your Honda Accord Oil Maintenance Light in just a few minutes.
Resetting the light is a simple process you can do yourself after an oil change. It ensures your car’s maintenance minder system accurately tracks your next service interval. Let’s get that light turned off.
How To Reset Your Honda Accord Oil Maintenance Light
Before you start, make sure your Accord has had its oil changed and any other required maintenance performed. Resetting the light without doing the service will throw off your car’s accurate monitoring system.
The steps vary slightly between model years and dashboard types. We’ll cover the main methods for most generations.
Understanding Your Accord’s Maintenance Minder
Honda’s system is smart. It doesn’t just track miles. It analyzes your driving conditions to tell you when service is truly needed.
The oil light is part of this system. A code like “A123” will appear, where “A” means an oil change, and the numbers indicate other checks.
- Maintenance Minder Light: Looks like a wrench or says “MAINT REQD.”
- Oil Life Percentage: Newer models show a percentage on the driver information display.
- Resetting Both: The process usually resets all minder codes and the oil life percentage together.
Tools You’ll Need
You likely already have everything required:
- Your Honda Accord ignition key or key fob.
- Your own two hands.
- A clean cloth (optional, for the buttons).
Method 1: For Most Models (2008-2022 with Push-Button Start)
This method works for many Accords from the 9th generation onward, especially those with push-button ignition and a digital speedometer.
- Make sure your vehicle is off. Do not press the brake pedal.
- Press the Engine Start/Stop button twice to turn the ignition to “ON” (II). You’ll see all dashboard lights illuminate. Do not start the engine.
- Locate the “HOME” or “i” (info) button on your steering wheel. Use the arrow buttons to scroll through the display options until you see the “Vehicle Settings” or “Maintenance” menu.
- Select “Vehicle Settings” then find “Maintenance Info” or “Oil Life.” Press the “ENTER” or “SEL/RESET” button to select it.
- You should see the oil life percentage. Hold down the “SEL/RESET” button for about 10 seconds. The display will ask for confirmation.
- Select “Yes” or “Reset” to confirm. The oil life should return to 100%.
- Turn off the ignition. Start your car to verify the maintenance light is gone.
Method 2: For Models with a Traditional Ignition Key (2003-2007 Common)
This is the classic method for 7th and 8th generation Accords, and it’s very straightforward.
- Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” (II) position. Again, do not start the engine.
- Look for the odometer/trip meter button on your instrument panel, usually near the speedometer.
- Press and hold this button down. You will see the odometer display change to something like “OIL LIFE” or the maintenance code.
- Continue holding the button for approximately 10 seconds. The display will reset, showing “100%” or the maintenance code will dissapear.
- Release the button. Turn the ignition off, then start your car to check.
Method 3: Using the Select/Reset Stem (Older Models)
Some older Accords have a physical stem or stick protruding from the dashboard cluster.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” (II) position.
- Find the select/reset stem, often near the fuel and temperature gauges.
- Press and hold this stem in. You may need to hold it for up to 10-15 seconds.
- Watch for the maintenance light to blink or for the oil life to reset to 100%.
- Release the stem and turn off the ignition. The process is complete.
What If the Light Won’t Reset?
Sometimes the light can be stubborn. Here’s what to try:
- Timing is Key: Ensure you’re in the “ON” position, not “ACC.” All dash lights should be on.
- Hold Longer: Try holding the button or stem for 15-20 seconds. Some models require a longer hold.
- Cycle the Ignition: Turn the car completely off, open and close the door, then try the steps again from the beginning.
- Check the Manual: Your owner’s manual has the exact, model-specific procedure. It’s the most reliable source.
Why It’s Important to Reset the Light
Resetting isn’t just about clearing an annoying light. It’s crucial for your car’s health.
- Accurate Tracking: The system can’t properly calculate your next oil life interval if it’s not reset.
- Prevent Confusion: You won’t know when your next real service is due, potentially leading to overdue maintenance.
- Resale Value: A lit maintenance light can be a red flag for potential buyers, suggesting poor upkeep.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple errors can prevent a successful reset.
- Starting the Engine: You must be in the “ON” position, not with the engine running. This is the most common mistake.
- Not Holding Long Enough: A quick press won’t do it. A sustained hold is almost always required.
- Ignoring Other Codes: If other maintenance codes (like B13) are present, they may need to be addressed first or will reset simultaneously.
- Forgetting the Parking Brake: For safety, always set your parking brake before starting this procedure.
FAQs About Resetting Your Accord’s Oil Light
Can I reset the oil light without changing the oil?
Technically, yes. But you should never do this. The light is a calculated reminder. Ignoring it means your engine is running on oil that’s past its effective life, which can cause serious and expensive damage over time.
My Accord has two oil lights. Which one do I reset?
Some models have a bright red “OIL PRESSURE” light. This is a serious warning to turn off the engine immediately and check oil level. The amber “Maintenance Required” or wrench light is the one you reset after a service. Never ignore the red light.
The light came back on after 100 miles. What does that mean?
If the maintence light returns quickly, it likely indicates a separate problem. The system may have detected a fault. Check your oil level manually first. If it’s correct, you may need a diagnostic scan to check for sensor issues.
Do I need a special scanner to reset the Honda oil light?
No. For standard oil life resets, the built-in procedure using dashboard buttons is all you need. A scanner is only necessary for resetting other diagnostic trouble codes (check engine light).
Will disconnecting the battery reset the oil light?
It might, but it’s not recommended. Disconnecting the battery will also reset your radio presets, clock, and engine learning memory. It’s an unreliable method and causes more inconvienience than just following the proper reset steps.
Final Tips for Success
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth reset every time.
- Always reference your owner’s manual first for model-year-specific instructions.
- Perform the reset immediately after your oil change so you don’t forget.
- If you’re unsure, a quick online search for your exact model year and “oil life reset” often yields helpful video tutorials.
- Keep a log of your oil changes and resets in your vehicle’s maintenance booklet. This helps with warranty and resale.
Resetting your Honda Accord’s oil maintenance light is a simple piece of vehicle upkeep. By following the correct steps for your model, you can clear that reminder in under a minute. Remember, the light is there to help you maintain your car’s reliability for many miles to come. Always pair the reset with a timely oil and filter change to keep your Accord running smoothly.