Service / Maintenance Required Light: what it means and what to do
Color: Amber/yellow or white (wrench icon)
Urgency: Not urgent: a reminder.
What it means
A scheduled maintenance interval (often oil change) is due based on mileage or the oil-life monitor.
Is it safe to drive?
Yes. It is usually a mileage or oil-life reminder, not a fault.
Likely causes
- Oil change due
- Scheduled service interval
- Reminder not reset after last service
Typical cost ranges
Rough general estimates for US shops (parts and labor). Your price depends on vehicle, region, and shop.
| Repair | Rough range |
|---|---|
| Oil change | $40–$130 |
| Reset | Free (often doable yourself from the owner's manual) |
What to tell the shop
Bring your owner's manual schedule. Ask the shop to separate manufacturer-required items from recommended extras.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Service / Maintenance Required Light mean?
A scheduled maintenance interval (often oil change) is due based on mileage or the oil-life monitor.
Is it safe to drive with the Service / Maintenance Required Light on?
Yes. It is usually a mileage or oil-life reminder, not a fault.
What causes the Service / Maintenance Required Light to come on?
Common causes include: Oil change due; Scheduled service interval; Reminder not reset after last service.
How much does it cost to fix the Service / Maintenance Required Light problem?
Rough general estimates: Oil change: $40–$130; Reset: Free (often doable yourself from the owner's manual). Actual costs vary by vehicle, region, and shop.
What should I tell the mechanic?
Bring your owner's manual schedule. Ask the shop to separate manufacturer-required items from recommended extras.
General information only, not professional mechanical advice. Check your owner's manual, and if in doubt, stop safely and call for help.