How to Reset the Oil Light on a 2003 Honda Accord
by Rex MolderThe 2003 Honda Accord is equipped with a "Maintenance Required" indicator located in the top-right corner of the instrument cluster. Its function is to alert you when it's time to change the Accord's engine oil. Once you have driven the car 10,000 miles (or 7,500 miles for 6 cyl. models) without resetting the indicator, it will come on and stay illuminated until it is reset. You must manually reset the "Maintenance Required" light. A mechanic can do it with her eyes closed, but you can do it yourself with your eyes open and spare yourself the time and expense.
Step 1
Turn off the Accord's engine and make sure the ignition switch is in the "Off" position.
Step 2
Press the "Select/Reset" knob and hold it. The knob is in the lower-right corner of the instrument cluster.
Step 3
Turn the ignition switch to the "On" position, without starting the car.
Step 4
Continue to hold the knob pushed in for approximately 10 seconds. The "Maintenance Required" light will turn off. Release the knob and turn the ignition off. The system is now reset.
References
Tips
- At an interval of 8,000 miles or less (or 6,000 miles if your Accord has a six-cylinder engine), the light will come on for two seconds each time the ignition is turned to the "On" position.
- For intervals between 8,000 and 10,000 miles (6,000 to 7,500 miles for six-cylinders), the light will come on for two seconds and then will flash for an additional 10 seconds. After 10,000 miles (7,500 miles for the six-cylinder), the light will stay lit.
Warnings
- The "Maintenance Required" indicator does not actually monitor oil changes. It is simply a reminder that you must reset for it to be accurate.
Writer Bio
Rex Molder began writing professionally in 1999 and specializes in automotive, technology and travel articles. His articles have appeared at iPad- and SEO-related websites. Rex holds a Bachelor of Arts in Asian studies from University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.
