why does my car say maintenance required

What Does “Maintenance Required” Mean on My Car?

It can be frightening to see a “Maintenance Required” light glow on your car’s dashboard. But, rather than being a sign of a major problem, it’s usually just an alert from your car’s onboard computer system that it’s time for routine maintenance. Let’s examine the meaning of this light and the actions you ought to do upon seeing it.

Getting to Know the “Maintenance Required” Light

Many automobiles are equipped with a standard feature called “Maintenance Required” light, which serves as a reminder to drivers about regular maintenance needs. This light does not correspond to the “Check Engine” light, which indicates a possible issue with one of the systems in your car. Rather, the “Maintenance Required” light is an alert that is preprogrammed to turn on based on how many kilometers have passed since the last reset.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Light Oil Change:

The “Maintenance Required” light is most frequently caused by an oil change being due. It’s essential to change your engine’s oil on a regular basis to maintain smooth operation and stop wear and tear.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Your vehicle’s manufacturer offers a suggested maintenance plan that covers things like tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks in addition to oil changes. In order to keep your car in good operating order, the light serves as a reminder for you to carry out these regular checks.

Mileage-Based Alerts:

Usually every 5,000 miles or so, the light turns on after a certain amount of kilometers driven. The make and model of your car can have an impact on this mileage figure.

How to Proceed When the Lighting Turns On

Consult your owner’s handbook:

The owner’s manual for your car will have detailed information regarding the maintenance needed at various mileage intervals. Consult this guide to determine the services you require.

Make an Appointment for Service:

To arrange for the required maintenance, get in touch with your dealership or a reputable mechanic. Frequent maintenance inspections keep your car operating efficiently and help spot possible problems early.

Resetting the Light:

The mechanic will reset the “Maintenance Required” light once the necessary maintenance has been finished. You may typically reset the light by following the directions in your owner’s manual if you handle the maintenance yourself.

Regular Maintenance Is Essential

Ignoring the “Maintenance Required” light can result in a number of problems, including as higher emissions, less fuel efficiency, and even possible failures. Frequent upkeep contributes to ensuring:

Increased Safety:

Regular inspections can spot potential problems like worn-out tires or brakes.

Improved Performance:

You can maintain your engine operating smoothly by getting regular oil changes and tune-ups.

Extended Vehicle Lifespan:

Maintaining your car properly lowers wear and tear and increases its lifespan.

Increased Resale Value:

A well-kept vehicle can fetch a higher resale price since it is more appealing to prospective purchasers.

In summary

The “Maintenance Required” light serves as a useful reminder to follow recommended maintenance schedules in order to keep your car in optimal condition. You can drive with more safety and dependability if you take quick care of the light and adhere to your car’s suggested maintenance schedule. Always refer to your owner’s handbook and, if needed, get professional assistance to keep your car in top shape.