How to Reset the Maintenance Light on a Toyota Corolla: 10 Easy Steps
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Ed Malaker
- Last updated:
The maintenance light is an important feature in any vehicle because it lets you know when something is wrong. However, if the mechanic doesn’t shut it off when they finish the maintenance, it can be annoying, and even worse, it can prevent you from knowing when it’s time to perform maintenance again. Fortunately, it is not difficult to shut off, so keep reading as we provide a step-by-step guide to resetting the maintenance light in your Toyota Corolla.
What Is the Maintenance Light?
The maintenance light is similar to but different from the check engine light. Instead of alerting you to a malfunctioning component in the engine, it is telling you that it is time to perform routine maintenance, typically an oil change. You should always take your car to receive the suggested maintenance for optimal performance. Routine maintenance is also often required for cars that you are still paying off, so don’t simply switch off the light when it comes on.
Resetting the Maintenance Light on a Toyota Corolla
Turning Off the Light on Your Toyota Corolla
- The first step is to insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “On” position. Most ignitions begin in the off position and move first to the “Accessory” position, which enables you to use some of your electronics before moving to the “On” position. Turning the key any further will start the engine. Some engines will label the “Accessory” and “On” positions as one and two. If your Corolla has a push-button ignition, pressing it twice without putting your foot on the brake will get you in the correct position.
- Next, locate and press the trip reset button near the odometer, and hold it until the central screen displays Trip A.
- Turn the ignition key back to the off position.
- Press and hold the reset button again as you turn the key back to the “On” position or push the start button once without pressing the brake.
- Continue holding the reset button until all the numbers start to flash 0 in the miles section of the odometer. Once the numbers start flashing, you should see the maintenance light turn off.
- Turn the key back to the “Off” position.
Resetting the Maintenance Light on a Toyota Corolla
- With the maintenance light off, you can reset the light, so start by turning the key to the “On” position or pressing the ignition button twice without your foot on the brake.
- Select the cog icon that resembles a gear on your infotainment center.
- Choose the “Scheduled Maintenance” option that appears on display.
- Choose “OK” on the screen that appears to confirm your selection and reset your maintenance light.
FAQ
How Often Will My Maintenance Light Come On?
The maintenance light should come on in your car every 5,000 miles to signify that it is time for an oil change. Maintenance checkups are also a good time to check your air filter, transmission fluid, steering fluid, and radiator fluid to make sure there are no developing problems.
Do I Change the Oil Myself?
If you have experience changing the oil and oil filter, you can do the work yourself and save a few dollars. However, most people will be better off taking the car to a licensed auto mechanic who can change the oils, check over the vehicle, and reset than maintenance light. Your car warranty may also require you to have the car serviced by a qualified technician.
Summary
Turning off and resetting the maintenance light on your Toyota Corolla is not difficult and only requires following a few steps. You can do it quickly, but it’s important to remember to perform the routine maintenance that the car requires, especially if it is still under warranty. You can expect the light to appear every 5,000 miles, though if you do a large amount of high-speed driving or towing, it might come on more often.
Featured Image Credit: Goodfreephotos_com, Pixabay
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