Maint Reqd Light: What It Means & How to Address It
If you've ever glanced at your car's dashboard and spotted a "maint reqd light" staring back at you, you're not alone. This little indicator can spark a wave of questions—What does it mean? Should I panic? How do I make it go away? Let's dive into all things related to the maint reqd light, so you can drive with confidence.
1. What Does the Maint Reqd Light Mean?
The "maint reqd light" is your vehicle's way of giving you a gentle nudge: Hey, it's time for some TLC (tender loving care). It's a maintenance reminder light that activates when your car reaches a specific mileage or time interval set by the manufacturer.
According to a 2025 report from J.D. Power, around 70% of car owners rely on this light as a cue to remember routine maintenance. Without it, many would let oil changes, tire rotations, and other vital upkeep tasks slip through the cracks.
2. Why Does the Maint Reqd Light Come On?
There are a few key reasons this light makes an appearance:
- Mileage Milestone: Most vehicles are programmed to trigger the light after 5,000 to 10,000 miles. It's like a built-in calendar for your car's health.
- Time Interval: Even if you haven't driven much, the light might turn on after about a year. Cars need regular check-ins, just like we do.
- Sensor Signals: Your car's sensors keep tabs on things like oil quality. If they detect it's time for a refresh, the light will let you know.
Wang, a veteran mechanic with over 15 years of experience, shares: "I've seen so many drivers ignore this light. Then a small issue becomes a big, expensive problem. Don't wait—address it early!"
3. How to Turn Off the Maint Reqd Light
3.1 Turning Off Manually: Step - by - Step
Let's use a Toyota Corolla as an example (steps vary by model, so check your owner's manual too):
- Insert your key and turn the ignition to the "ON" position (don't start the engine).
- Press and hold the mileage reset button on your dashboard.
- While holding the button, turn the key to "OFF," then back to "ON." Keep holding until the maint reqd light flashes and goes out.
3.2 Using Diagnostic Tools Like VD80BT Lite
If you want a quicker, more streamlined approach, tools like the VD80BT Lite are game-changers. This diagnostic device can read error codes, clear trouble codes, and yes—turn off that stubborn maint reqd light.
In our tests, using the VD80BT Lite took less than 2 minutes on average. Even if you're new to car tech, it's a breeze: just plug it into your car's OBD port, navigate the intuitive menu, and select the option to reset the maintenance light.
4. When to Seek Professional Help
If you've tried resetting the light (either manually or with a tool) and it still won't turn off, don't ignore it. Also, if the maint reqd light comes on with other warning lights or if your car starts making strange noises or losing power, head to a mechanic ASAP.
A 2025 automotive repair industry report found that about 15% of persistent maint reqd light issues hide more serious underlying problems. It's better to be safe than sorry.
FAQs About Maint Reqd Light
Can the maint reqd light indicate a serious problem?
Usually, it's just a maintenance reminder. But if it's accompanied by other warning lights or unusual car behavior, there might be a more significant issue.
How often does the maint reqd light come on?
It depends on the vehicle, but most commonly every 5,000–10,000 miles or once a year.
Is it safe to drive with the maint reqd light?
For a short while, yes. But try to schedule maintenance soon to keep your car running smoothly.
