Your Toyota 4Runner will display a “MAINT” sign or “Service Required” message on the dash LCD when you need to perform regular inspections and fluid changes. These lights are usually triggered by an odometer reading (i.e. distance covered), and most frequently indicate it’s time for a yearly oil change. However, you will also get alerts for brake fluids, filters, and electrical checks.
Even if you maintain the car in top shape by yourself, you need to reset the maintenance light so the car notifies you properly if something goes wrong. Read on to learn more.
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Reset Maintenance Light Toyota 4Runner 2010-2024
With the 2010 facelift, the 4Runner received an LED display in the middle of the dash, which also provides helpful prompts on performing regular checks. Here’s how to reset the maintenance light in newer models:
- Turn the ignition on without starting the engine. For a key start, rotate the key as far as you can without resistance. For a push start, press the “Engine Start” button twice.
- Press the odometer stem that’s jutting out of the driver’s instrument dashboard until the screen reads “Trip A” in the bottom left.
- Turn off the ignition.
- Press and hold the odometer stem.
- Turn the ignition on again without the engine.
- The screen should tell you that it’s resetting maintenance information. Wait until the process completes.
- Release the odometer stem. Restart the car to check whether the maintenance light is off.
Repeat the process a few times if necessary. You need to ensure that you’re pressing the button while starting the car.
Reset Maintenance Light Toyota 4Runner 2003-2009
In the third-generation 4Runners, the odometer is controlled via two buttons on the left side of the dash. Follow these steps:
- Rotate the key into the “ON” position. This won’t start the engine.
- Hit the “ODO/TRIP” button until the odometer reads “ODO” in the left corner.
- Turn the ignition off.
- Press and hold the “RESET” button.
- Turn the ignition back to “ON.”
- The maintenance light should blink and then go off.
- Stop holding the “RESET” button and restart the car.
Sometimes, the process might not be complete on the first try. Repeat a few times if necessary. If there’s another alert that stays lit, it may be causing the maintenance notification to stay on. Check your manufacturer’s manual for more information.
Reset Maintenance Light Toyota 4Runner 1995-2002
Toyota 4Runners made before 2003 don’t have a separate maintenance required alert. However, the instrument cluster will display several notifications prompting you to check the appropriate system. Consult your owner’s manual and follow its instructions. You’ll usually need to get the car checked by a professional if a warning light persists.
The Light Stays On After the Reset
If the maintenance light refuses to turn off despite multiple reset attempts, your car may have an underlying issue. This can range from low oil pressure to a malfunctioning catalytic converter. The car needs to be inspected thoroughly to diagnose the problem and fix it. It may be best to take it to a qualified Toyota service technician.
Remember that resetting the maintenance light doesn’t actually solve any of the problems you have with the vehicle. Even if you perform regular oil changes, you may have missed a vital inspection that involves another car subsystem.
Go through your owner’s manual to check the exact odometer readings and intervals at which the oil light should come on. The interval will depend on the oil type you’re using – older oil types generally need more frequent changes. You’ll need to keep track of other inspection timings to ensure the car doesn’t develop other problems.
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