a man performing an oil change

How to Reset Your Ford Oil Change Light

DIY: Reset Your Ford Oil Change Light Indicator at Home 

If you’ve just completed an oil change on your Ford vehicle and the oil change light or “Oil Life” indicator is still showing on your dashboard, don’t worry; it’s easy to reset. At Akins Ford, located in Winder, Georgia, we’re here to help drivers from Winder, Athens, Atlanta, and the surrounding areas take proper care of their vehicles. Follow our guide to learn how to reset your Ford oil change light the right way. 



Important Reminder Before You Begin 

You should only reset the oil change light after changing your engine oil and oil filter. Resetting it without actually performing maintenance can lead to inaccurate service reminders and potential long-term engine damage. 


Step-by-Step: How to Reset Your Ford Oil Change Light 

  • Switch the ignition on: Do not start the engine. Just press the start button once without your foot on the brake or turn the key to the “on” position. 
  • Press the accelerator and brake pedals fully: Push both pedals all the way down at the same time. 
  • Keep both pedals pressed: Hold them down for about 25 seconds. 
  • Watch for messages on your dashboard: After about three seconds, you’ll see a message that says the reset is in progress. 
  • Wait for completion: When the system finishes, another message will confirm that the oil life reset is complete. 
  • Release both pedals and switch the ignition off. 
  • Turn your ignition back on to make sure the oil change light has cleared. 

Why It’s Important to Reset Your Oil Life Monitoring System 

Your car’s oil life monitoring system helps track engine conditions and mileage to alert you when it’s time for an oil change. If it isn’t reset, your system could remind you of a service that’s already been performed, or worse, it might not alert you when your next oil change is actually due. 

Resetting the oil life indicator ensures your vehicle’s maintenance schedule stays accurate and your Ford continues running smoothly for miles to come. 



a Ford technician performing an oil change

Visit Akins Ford for Expert Oil Change Service in Winder, GA 

If you’d prefer to have the professionals handle your next oil change or system reset, the certified service team at Akins Ford is here for you. We use genuine Motorcraft® oil and filters designed specifically for your Ford model. Whether you drive an F-150, Escape, Explorer, or Super Duty, we’ll keep your vehicle in top shape. 


Checkmark above #1 volume F-series dealer in the nation based on 2023 Ford retail sales report

#1 volume F-series dealer in the nation based on 2023 Ford retail sales report

checkmark above #1 volume Ford dealer in Georgia based on 2023 Ford retail sales report

#1 volume Ford dealer in Georgia based on 2023 Ford retail sales report

checkmark above #1 volume Ford dealer in the Southeast based on 2023 Ford retail sales report

#1 volume Ford dealer in the Southeast based on 2023 Ford retail sales report

Checkmark above #1 volume Ford dealer in the nation for the month of June 2024

#1 volume Ford dealer in the nation for the month of June 2024