Maintenance Required Light: What It Means and What to Do
The Maintenance Required Light is a scheduled service reminder, usually for an oil change, based on mileage or an oil-life calculation.
- What it looks like
- The text MAINT REQD, or a wrench icon, depending on the vehicle.
- Color
- Amber/yellow or a text message. Common on Toyota and Lexus vehicles; other brands show similar oil-life or service-due messages.
Also called: MAINT REQD light, service due light, oil change reminder, maintenance reminder light, Toyota maintenance light
Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
Why the maintenance required light comes on
Some vehicles count miles since the last reset, while others calculate oil life based on engine revolutions, temperature, and driving patterns. When the interval is reached, the reminder appears. It does not detect oil level or engine problems.
Steady vs flashing
On many Toyota models the light blinks briefly at startup as service approaches and stays on when the interval has been reached.
Common causes
- Scheduled oil change interval reached
- Mileage-based maintenance reminder
- Reminder not reset after a recent service
- Time-based service interval reached on vehicles that track months as well as miles
What to do when the maintenance required light comes on
- Schedule an oil change and any service listed in the maintenance schedule.
- Check the engine oil level in the meantime.
- Reset the reminder after service using the procedure in the owner's manual.
- Keep service records with dates and mileage.
Symbols and colors vary by manufacturer; your owner’s manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Maintenance Required Light FAQ
What does the maintenance required light mean?
The Maintenance Required Light is a scheduled service reminder, usually for an oil change, based on mileage or an oil-life calculation.
Can I keep driving with the maintenance required light on?
Yes. It is a reminder, not a fault, but service the vehicle soon and reset the reminder afterward.
Is the maintenance required light serious?
No, it is a reminder. Ignoring service for long periods, however, can lead to engine wear.
How do I reset the maintenance required light?
The procedure varies by model and is listed in the owner's manual. Many use the trip meter or a settings menu.
Why did my maintenance light come back on after an oil change?
The reminder was likely not reset after service. Resetting it starts the interval again.
Other dashboard warning lights
Sources
- 49 CFR 571.101 (FMVSS No. 101) — Controls and displays: telltale symbols and colors
- NHTSA — Check for open safety recalls by VIN
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. When in doubt, stop in a safe place and follow your owner’s manual.