What does the small wrench on the car dashboard mean?
4 Answers
The small wrench that appears on the car dashboard is simply a maintenance indicator. The maintenance cycle of the vehicle is preset when the car leaves the factory, so the small wrench will appear every certain number of kilometers to remind the driver to perform timely maintenance. Typically, the maintenance cycle for a car is every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers, and the factory-set cycle is usually longer than 8,000 kilometers. Method to reset the small wrench indicator: 1. Insert the key, but do not turn it; 2. Press and hold the operating lever next to the odometer for 5 to 10 seconds, then turn the key to power on; 3. After another 5 to 10 seconds, start the car while continuing to hold the operating lever without releasing it. Generally, following these steps will clear the small wrench indicator. If it doesn't clear, repeat the same process a few more times.
Last time when this little wrench icon popped up on my car's dashboard, I was really confused. Later I learned it's the maintenance reminder light. Looking back now, it's quite interesting - this icon is like the car's alarm clock, reminding you it's time to visit the 4S shop or repair shop for maintenance. When I encountered it, I specifically checked the manual and found maintenance intervals vary between different car models - some are 5,000 kilometers while others are 7,500. After changing the engine oil and filter, the mechanic pressed a few buttons to clear the icon. I remember one time my friend kept driving for two months after seeing the wrench light on, and the engine sound became extremely loud - the repair cost thousands. So never ignore this reminder. Developing regular maintenance habits is really important, after all, cars need care too.
Don't panic when you see the wrench symbol on the dashboard—it's just the maintenance reminder light telling you it's time for vehicle care. As someone who frequently drives long distances, I pay close attention to the mileage when this light comes on, which is usually set by the manufacturer as the recommended service interval. Last time my car's light came on, I specifically checked the engine oil condition and noticed it had indeed turned black. Those who've changed their own oil know that modern vehicles require a manual system reset after maintenance—some models need you to hold two dashboard buttons for five seconds, while others require pumping the brake pedal several times. If unsure about the procedure, it's best to visit a professional shop. Regularly changing engine oil and filters keeps the engine in top shape and actually saves money compared to major repairs down the road.
Last month, I was troubled by the little wrench icon that suddenly flashed on the left side of the dashboard while driving. I called the 4S store customer service, and they told me this is a built-in maintenance reminder function in every car, just like the battery icon on a phone reminding you to charge. Most cars remind at intervals of 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, and my car triggers it every 7,500 kilometers. Later, when I went to the store for maintenance, the technician fixed it in just a few minutes with a computer. The customer service lady said it's important to always pay attention to various warning lights on the dashboard, especially if the oil can light or water temperature light comes on, you must stop immediately. She advised new car owners to keep the maintenance manual, which clearly explains all these signal lights.
