If you own a Toyota or almost any modern automobile, you’ve likely seen the maintenance required or “MAINT REQD” light on your dashboard at some point in time. Although it can be a little alarming, the good news is that this is not an emergency warning light.
A maintenance required light is a mileage-based reminder that tells you it is time to perform the required maintenance on your vehicle.
Usually, this means it is time for an oil change, tire rotation, fluid level checks, & other scheduled maintenance to ensure your vehicle remains reliable.
What Does it Mean When the Maintenance Required Light is on?
Your car tracks the miles since your last reset, & it typically lights the maintenance required light every 5,000 miles.
When you see this light, it is time to get routine service performed, which may include all of the following:
- Change oil & oil filter
- Rotate tires
- Coolant, brake fluid, & transmission fluid levels checking
- Brake inspection
- Change the air & cabin filters
Toyota set up this system to help you perform routine maintenance before any wear creates serious issues later.
Similarly, Honda has a Maintenance Minder system that displays codes like “A” for an oil change or “1” for a tire rotation.
What Happens if You Ignore the Maintenance Required Light?
Although this light does not mean your car will suddenly break down, you are probably going to see costs associated with not following the recommendations of your service light:
- Diminished performance and fuel economy
- Increased wear on engine components due to the old oil in the engine
- Uneven wear on tires due to not rotating them properly
- Brake concerns from uninspected components
Your car may just keep going, but service will cost you more in the long run and shorten the life of your vehicle.
A Redditor raised a concern about their MAINT REQD light flashing between 5-10 times when they start their Toyota Camry. Another user replied, “Blinking is ‘Almost time’. Like when your gas light blinks before becoming solid.”
If you’re unsure, it helps to ask because it could save you from an unwanted surprise later on!
Maintenance Required Light vs. Check Engine Light
It’s easy to confuse the maintenance required light and the check engine light on your dashboard. But here are the differences:
| Dashboard Light | Meaning | Urgency | What to Do |
| Maintenance Required Light | Reminder for scheduled maintenance based on mileage | Not urgent | Schedule service soon |
| Check Engine Light | Indicates engine or emission system issues | Urgent or ASAP | Get a diagnostic check immediately |
A maintenance required light is preventative, while a check engine light indicates your car has a malfunction that requires attention.
Read Also: Car Dashboard Warning Signs: A Complete Guide
How to Reset the Maintenance Required Light in Your Toyota
After your scheduled maintenance is completed, you may notice the maintenance light is still on & needs to be reset manually. Here is an easy way to reset the light:
For Most Traditional Odometer Toyotas:
- Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to “On”, but do not start the vehicle.
- Then, press and hold the trip meter reset button.
- Now turn the key to the off position & then back to “On” while still holding the button.
- Keep holding until the maintenance light flashes & then turns off.
- Now release the button and start your car to confirm the light is off.
For Toyotas with a Digital Multi-Information Display:
- Turn the ignition on, but don’t start the engine. Press the start button twice if you have a push-start.
- Use the display to navigate to vehicle settings.
- Select “Scheduled Maintenance”.
- Select “Reset” and confirm.
- You should see the light turn off.
I’d highly recommend referring to your owner’s manual if you’re doing something like this for the first time to get the exact instructions. If you don’t want to take a chance on yourself, the dealer can reset it when you visit for your next service.
Now you know how to tackle this reminder light on your Toyota Tacoma, RAV4, or any modern vehicle with this feature.
How Much Does Maintenance Typically Cost?
A basic maintenance service of about 5,000 miles includes an oil change, a tire rotation, and a fluid check priced at around $50-150. It really depends on where you live & what kind of vehicle you drive.
As you reach higher mileages, your maintenance cost can range from $200 to $600+. Proper & regular maintenance is a small cost when compared to repairs that can occur if you don’t maintain your vehicle.
See Also: Average Cost To Maintain A Car
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep driving with the maintenance required light on?
Yes, you can drive, but you should not put off service forever. The light is a reminder that maintenance is due, which keeps your vehicle running properly, safely, & efficiently.
Does the maintenance required light mean I need an oil change?
The maintenance required light is often lit up to remind you about your oil change maintenance and scheduled upkeep.
Can I reset the maintenance required light myself?
Yes, resetting the maintenance required light is simple, & you can follow the steps above.
Is the maintenance required light the same as the check engine light?
No, the maintenance required light is a reminder for when service is needed, typically routine maintenance. The check engine light indicates an issue.
Final Thoughts
I always see people ignore the basic routine checks when they help their vehicle run longer. Not only does scheduling a timely maintenance help with the fuel economy, but it can also prevent breakdowns and maintain resale value. If you see the MAINT REQD light turn on, think of it as your car nudging you to get that quick tune-up, which pays for itself in the end.
