How To Reset The Maintenance Light On A Toyota Tacoma

A situation: you’re driving on a trusty Toyota Tacoma when a noticeable maintenance light suddenly appears on your dashboard even after the oil change. Don’t worry!  In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to reset the maintenance light on a Toyota Tacoma with several simple steps. Not, let’s say goodbye to this annoying reminder and take control of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule with ease.

What Does A Maintenance Required Light Mean On Toyota Tacoma? 

The main responsibility of the “maintenance light” on the Tacoma works as a reminder that scheduled maintenance is due (almost related to an oil change or inspection). The computer system will track the distance the vehicle has driven, the light will activate when the vehicle’s mileage meets the condition after 8,000 ~ 10,000 km. However, this system cannot consider other impact factors such as driving conditions such as load weight, towing capacity, or weather conditions. Therefore,  this reminder light can only notify when the specified mileage is reached. These are all important factors that affect the lifespan of engine oil.

While not an immediate cause for concern, it is essential to address the maintenance required promptly to keep your Tacoma running smoothly and avoid potential issues down the road.

The “Maintenace Required” light may not be an effective warning for those who frequently drive under heavy loads, or in inclement weather. Therefore, they need to change oil more frequently. However, this does not mean that these drivers should ignore it when this maintenance light comes on.

When the “Maintenance required” light illuminates, it is crucial to promptly arrange an appointment with a trusted dealership or garage to ensure proper maintenance of your vehicle. Toyota, in particular, offers a range of inspection services, spanning from basic to advanced, that are specifically designed to optimize the performance of your Tacoma and safeguard it against potentially expensive damages. By adhering to these recommended services, not only will you safeguard the engine, but you will also protect other vital components of your Tacoma, ensuring its smooth operation for years to come.

At this step, you’ll wonder whether the maintenance light will turn off after the maintenance schedule or not. Often not, after the vehicle has been serviced, the Maintenance Required light will need to be reset. Some mechanics may forget and ignore this. This may result in this light being activated again. This is not necessary once you have completed the maintenance process. So how to turn off “Maintenance Light” Toyota Tacoma?

>> Read more: Oil Change Time vs Mileage – What’s More Important?

How To Reset The Maintenance Light On A Toyota Tacoma?

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To reset the maintenance light on a Toyota Tacoma, follow these simple steps:

• Ensure that your Tacoma is parked and the engine is turned off.
• Locate the trip meter button on the dashboard. It is used to toggle between different trip meter displays and to reset the trip meter readings. The exact location of the trip meter button may vary slightly depending on the model year and trim level of the Tacoma, but it is generally positioned within easy reach of the driver, either on the instrument cluster or on the steering wheel.
• Press and hold the trip meter button.
• While holding the meter button, turn the ignition key to the “ON” position (do not start the engine).
• Continue holding the trip meter button for about 5-10 seconds until the maintenance light starts flashing and eventually turns off.
• Release the trip meter button.

That’s it! The maintenance light should now be reset. You can turn off the ignition and start your Toyota Tacoma as usual.

Can I Drive A Toyota Tacoma With The Maintenance Required Light On?

Yes, you can typically drive a Toyota Tacoma with the Maintenance Required light on. The Maintenance Required light is not an indication of an immediate mechanical failure or safety concern. It serves as a reminder that scheduled maintenance, such as an oil change or inspection, is due.

However, it’s important to address the maintenance required as soon as possible. Failure to do so could potentially lead to issues with your vehicle’s performance or even cause damage in the long run.

>> Related post: DIY Car Maintenance: Simple Tasks You Can Do Yourself to Save Time and Money

Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, knowing to reset the maintenance light on the Toyota Tacoma is a simple yet essential task to keep your vehicle’s maintenance schedule on track. By following the proper steps, you can effectively communicate to your Tacoma’s onboard computer that the required maintenance has been completed, ensuring accurate reminders for future service intervals.