When you see the “Maint Reqd” light illuminate on your dashboard, it signals that your vehicle needs attention. While it’s not an immediate cause for alarm, it’s wise to take your time and follow your car’s maintenance schedule.
Usually, this light flashes temporarily when you start the engine and then turn it off. However, after driving a few hundred miles, it returns and remains lit, reminding you to take your car, especially in popular Toyota models like Camry, Corolla, RAV4, and Tacoma for servicing. A flashing “maintenance reqd” light signals that you still have time before an urgent service is needed.
What Happens If You Ignore The “Maintenance Reqd” Light?
Does the “maintenance required” signal indicate the need for an oil change? Ignoring this warning can damage your car’s engine. Regular oil changes decrease wear and tear, extend the engine’s lifespan, and improve fuel efficiency. Timely servicing also helps maintain your car’s resale value. However, ignoring this warning might lead to engine failure, resulting in costly repairs.
While the “maintenance reqd” light doesn’t demand immediate attention, certain other dashboard lights should not be ignored:
- Check Engine: This light might indicate various issues, from catalytic converter problems to spark plug issues. It keeps a code that shows an error, and you can check it with diagnostic tools.
- Engine Oil Level: It indicates the need to refill engine oil or maybe there’s an oil leak, so you should check everything carefully.
- ABS Light: This light warns you if there’s not enough brake fluid or if there’s a problem with the ABS, which is crucial for your brakes to work properly.
- Door Open: This light tells you if any of your car doors are open, usually with a sound alert.
- Power Steering: This light may indicate low fluid or more severe power steering system issues.
- Airbag Light: If the airbag light is on, it’s essential to have a mechanic check it for safety reasons.
- Cooling System: Immediate attention is necessary to avoid engine overheating if this light comes on.
- Automatic Transmission System: While you can still drive, it should be checked for low fluid or high temperatures.
- Seat Belt Reminder: Buckle up when this light appears.
- Headlight System: Usually, it is a signal to replace a light bulb; driving with non-functioning lights could lead to fines.
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Is It Illegal To Avoid Car Servicing?
In many cases, there’s no immediate legal requirement to service your car, even if multiple dashboard lights are flashing. Though no specific service requirement exists, regular maintenance benefits safety, fuel efficiency, and prolonging your car’s life.
Most countries require car inspections every 12 to 24 months. Neglecting warning lights and severe car issues could lead to inspection failure. Timely servicing is advisable to avoid potential problems later.
How Do I Clear The Maintenance Required Light? Estimated Cost
For more severe problems, the bill might increase significantly.
Regular maintenance usually takes around an hour, while a comprehensive check of brakes, suspension, lights, wipers, belts, hoses, and the battery might take several hours.
The “maintenance reqd” light reminds you to care for your vehicle, ensuring smooth operations. This saves money in the long run and maintains your car’s value for potential future resale.
Resetting the Maint Reqd Light in Your Car:
Thinking about whether I can drive with the Maint REQD light on. Sometimes, it sticks around after a service or DIY maintenance. Resetting it is quite simple:
- Switch on the ignition.
- Make sure the Odometer/Trip Display shows ODO mode.
- Turn off the ignition.
- Hold down the trip meter ‘Reset’ button while turning on the ignition again.
- You’ll see the light stay on for three seconds, then blink for two seconds, and finally stay steady for one second.
- Release the trip meter ‘Reset‘ button.
- Switch off the ignition.
- Turn it back on and check if the maintenance-required light is gone.
Conclusion
The “Maintenance Reqd” light informs you that your car needs some attention. This is a friendly warning that your vehicle needs regular service, like oil changes, wheel rotations, and fluid checks. Ignoring this warning light could cause problems with your engine, making it less efficient. In addition to making the trip faster, safer, and longer, your quick answer to this message will keep everything moving smoothly.
