"Maint Reqd" on your car's dashboard is a reminder from your vehicle's maintenance monitoring system that routine service is due. It is not typically a warning of an immediate, critical failure. The system calculates this based on factors like mileage, engine run time, and driving conditions. The most common trigger is the need for an oil change, but it can also signal that other routine services are due, such as tire rotation or fluid inspections.
This light is part of an Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS), which is more sophisticated than a simple mileage counter. Instead of just tracking miles, it analyzes your actual driving habits. For example, frequent short trips, towing, or driving in extreme temperatures can degrade oil faster than gentle highway commuting. The OLMS accounts for this, providing a more accurate service interval.
When the light illuminates, you should consult your owner's manual to determine the specific service required. It's a prompt to schedule service soon, but you generally have a small buffer of miles—often a few hundred—to do so. Ignoring it for an extended period can lead to increased engine wear and potential damage.
Here’s a general guideline for what the "Maint Reqd" light might indicate, though you must always refer to your specific vehicle's manual:
| Potential Service Needed | Typical Interval (Can Vary) | Why It's Important |
|---|
| Engine Oil & Filter Change | 5,000 - 10,000 miles | Reduces engine wear and maintains lubrication |
| Tire Rotation | 5,000 - 7,500 miles | Promotes even tire wear for longer tread life |
| Cabin Air Filter Replacement | 15,000 - 30,000 miles | Improves interior air quality and HVAC efficiency |
| Engine Air Filter Inspection/Replacement | 30,000 - 45,000 miles | Ensures optimal air flow for engine performance and fuel economy |
| Multi-Point Vehicle Inspection | With every oil change | Catches small issues before they become major problems |
After the service is performed, a technician will reset the maintenance light. The method for resetting varies by car model; sometimes it's a button sequence, other times it's done through the infotainment system. If the light comes back on shortly after service, it may not have been reset correctly.
