What does it mean when the vehicle maintenance reminder light comes on?
2 Answers
When the vehicle maintenance reminder light comes on, it indicates that the car requires maintenance. As the vehicle reaches a certain mileage, the onboard computer detects that maintenance is needed, and the dashboard light will illuminate to alert the owner. To ensure the vehicle's reliability, it is recommended to perform maintenance immediately when the reminder light appears. Routine maintenance typically involves changing the engine oil, other fluids, oil filter, air filter, consumable rubber parts, and gradually wearing components. In addition to replacing these parts, a thorough inspection of the vehicle is also necessary. Owners can schedule maintenance based on their specific needs. Regular car maintenance helps maintain optimal performance, reduces the likelihood of repairs, and ensures driving safety, making timely maintenance very important.
Recently, the maintenance reminder light on my car came on, which immediately made me nervous. Based on my over ten years of driving experience, this light is the vehicle's way of reminding you that it's time for routine maintenance. The car's computer system automatically calculates the maintenance interval based on mileage or time, triggering it every 5,000 kilometers or six months, for example. If not addressed promptly, it could lead to increased engine wear, higher fuel consumption, or even damage to critical components. That one time I ignored the light for a week, the engine noise became louder, and the repair cost me over a thousand dollars. So now, as soon as the light comes on, I head straight to the 4S dealership for a comprehensive check-up, including routine items like oil and filter changes. Safety first—don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem to regret it. I’ve also made it a habit to keep track of maintenance dates to avoid driving beyond the recommended limits.
