How do you reset the oil change needed light on a Toyota RAV4?

Mark Ziffra · 05 Jul 2010, 03:48 am

I changed my own oil but it doesn't tell you how to reset the light which is supposed to tell you an oil change is needed. Nothing in book and dealer says to bring it in.

legacy11 · 05 Jul 2010, 03:50 am

Yea, the dealer probably has to scan the computer and tell it there has been an oil change. That's the problem with those dummie lights and new technology. You can't do anything yourself anymore without a computer tellin you what or how to do somthing.

aj · 05 Jul 2010, 04:02 am

1.With the car started (ignition on), set the LCD odometer readout to total mileage (not trip A or B).

2.Turn the car off (ignition key to the OFF position).

3.Push in AND HOLD the button/knob that switches the odometer

4.Turn key to ON position without starting the car. You will notice the maintenance light blink and go out.

5.Release the odometer button/knob.

6.Turn key to OFF position.

7.That's it! The "MAINT REQD" light has been reset to warn you to change your oil in another 5,000 or 7,500 miles or so

mrvadeboncoeur · 05 Jul 2010, 04:05 am

At 4500 miles since last reset, the Maint Reqd light will blink at you on startup (very easy to miss seeing it). At 5000 miles since last reset, the Maint Reqd light will stay on solid.

It's just a reminder by miles that you are due for the next scheduled maintenance. It is not smart (doesn't go by time, or do any oil analysis), just a mile counter. Usually that is an oil change/tire rotation: http://smg.toyotapartsandservice.com/

Should your dealer forget to reset it, or you go to an independent mechanic or DIY, you can reset the light yourself.

On pages 122-123 of the US 2004 Prius Owner's Manual (Section 2-5 "Operation of Instruments and Controls: Gauges, Meters and Service Reminder Indicators", item (j) in the "Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers" section), is a description of the Maint Reqd light and instructions for turning it off. It should be in a similar section in your RAV4's owner's manual.

Usually it is a button dance involving the odometer reset button.

If you no longer have your owner's manual, you can view it online after signing up at Toyota's owner's site: http://www.toyotaownersonline.com/

How do you reset the oil change needed light on a Toyota RAV4?

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