How To Reset Oil Life On Honda Accord

Maintaining your vehicle is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance on the road. One essential aspect of routine maintenance is keeping track of when your car needs an oil change. For Honda Accord owners, this is made easier with the oil life indicator system. However, after an oil change, do you know how to reset the oil life on your Honda Accord?

The process of resetting the oil life indicator on a Honda Accord is straightforward and can be done in just a few simple steps. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step instructions for resetting the oil life on both newer and older Honda Accord models. We’ll also cover the importance of using the recommended oil type, why you shouldn’t reset the oil life without actually changing the oil, and answer other frequently asked questions.

Why is it Important to Reset the Oil Life Indicator?

The oil life indicator system in your Honda Accord is designed to monitor and calculate when your vehicle’s engine oil needs to be changed. It takes into account various factors such as mileage, driving conditions, and engine load to determine the optimal time for an oil change.

When you change your Accord’s oil, it’s crucial to reset the oil life indicator so that it can accurately track and notify you when the next oil change is due. Failing to reset the indicator after an oil change can lead to inaccurate readings, potentially causing you to miss important maintenance intervals.

Driving with old, dirty oil for too long can have severe consequences for your engine’s health. It can lead to increased wear and tear, sludge buildup, and decreased fuel efficiency. Resetting the oil life indicator ensures that you stay on top of this essential maintenance task, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of your Honda Accord’s engine.

What is the Recommended Honda Accord Oil Type?

Before we dive into the steps for resetting the oil life indicator, it’s essential to understand the importance of using the correct oil type for your Honda Accord. The manufacturer recommends using a synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20 motor oil, specifically designed for your vehicle’s engine.

Using the wrong oil type or weight can have detrimental effects on your engine’s performance and longevity. Incorrect oil can lead to increased wear and tear, decreased fuel efficiency, and even potential engine damage over time.

Always refer to your Honda Accord’s owner’s manual or consult with a professional mechanic to ensure you’re using the recommended oil type for your specific model and driving conditions.

How to Reset Oil Life on Newer Honda Accord Models (2017 and Later)

Honda has made resetting the oil life indicator on newer Accord models (2017 and later) a straightforward process that can be done through the vehicle’s infotainment system or steering wheel controls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Turn on your car to the accessory/run position without starting the engine. This can typically be done by inserting the key and turning it to the “ON” position or, in models with a push-button start, by pressing the engine start button twice without depressing the brake pedal.
Access the maintenance menu using the steering wheel controls or the center display. On the steering wheel, look for a button labeled “Menu” or with an “i” icon, and press it until you reach the maintenance menu. Alternatively, navigate to the maintenance menu through the center display’s settings.
Navigate to the “Oil Life” or “Engine Oil Life” reset option. Use the steering wheel controls or the center display’s touchscreen to scroll through the menu options until you find the one related to resetting the oil life.
Select the reset option and confirm that the oil life percentage resets to 100%. Once you’ve selected the reset option, the system should reset the oil life indicator to 100%, indicating that you’re starting fresh after an oil change.

Common Questions on Newer Models

What if the oil life doesn’t reset after following the steps? If the oil life indicator doesn’t reset after following the steps, there may be an issue with the system. In this case, it’s recommended to consult your Honda Accord’s owner’s manual or seek assistance from a professional mechanic.

Where is the oil life indicator located on the dash/display? The oil life indicator is typically displayed on the instrument cluster or the center display, depending on your Honda Accord’s model and year. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location in your vehicle.

Do I have to reset the oil life every time I get an oil change? Yes, it’s essential to reset the oil life indicator after every oil change to ensure accurate tracking and timely maintenance reminders.

How to Reset Oil Life on Older Honda Accord Models (Pre-2017)

For older Honda Accord models (pre-2017), the process of resetting the oil life indicator involves using a physical button or knob located on the dashboard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Insert the key and turn it to the run position without starting the engine. Alternatively, if your Accord has a push-button start, press the engine start button twice without depressing the brake pedal.
Locate the “Select/Reset”, “SEL/RESET”, or a similar button or knob on the dashboard. This button or knob is typically located near the odometer or trip computer display.
Press the button or knob repeatedly until the current oil life percentage is displayed. Keep pressing the button or knob until you see the oil life percentage on the dashboard display.
Hold the button or knob for 10-15 seconds until the oil life resets and shows 100%. Continue holding the button or knob until you see the oil life indicator reset to 100%, indicating that you’ve successfully reset the system after an oil change.

Common Questions on Older Models

What if the reset button or knob doesn’t seem to work, or the oil life won’t reset? If you’re having trouble resetting the oil life indicator on an older Honda Accord model, it’s possible that there may be an issue with the system. In this case, it’s recommended to consult your owner’s manual or seek professional assistance.

The oil life shows an incorrect percentage after resetting – what does that mean? If the oil life indicator displays an incorrect percentage after attempting to reset it, it may indicate a problem with the system. Double-check that you followed the correct steps for your specific model year, and if the issue persists, seek professional assistance.

Explanation of variances in reset method for different older model years While the general process of resetting the oil life indicator on older Honda Accord models involves using a physical button or knob, the exact location and steps may vary slightly between different model years. Always consult your owner’s manual for the specific instructions applicable to your vehicle.

The Importance of Not Resetting Oil Life Without an Oil Change

It’s crucial to understand that resetting the oil life indicator on your Honda Accord should only be done after you’ve actually changed the engine oil and oil filter. Resetting the indicator without performing an oil change can have severe consequences for your vehicle’s engine.

When you reset the oil life indicator without changing the oil, the system will assume that fresh, clean oil has been added to the engine. However, in reality, the old, dirty oil will remain in the engine, leading to accelerated wear and tear, sludge buildup, and decreased engine efficiency.

Driving with old, dirty oil for an extended period can cause irreparable damage to your engine, potentially leading to costly repairs or even engine failure. It’s essential to follow the recommended oil change intervals specified in your Honda Accord’s owner’s manual, which are typically between 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 to 12 months, depending on your driving conditions.

DIY Oil Changes vs. Professional Honda Service

When it comes to changing your Honda Accord’s oil, you have the option of either performing the task yourself (DIY) or taking your vehicle to a professional Honda service center.

Benefits of DIY Oil Changes

Cost savings: Changing your own oil can be significantly cheaper than taking your car to a professional service center, as you only need to pay for the oil and filter.
Convenience: DIY oil changes allow you to perform the maintenance on your own schedule, without the need for appointments or waiting times.
Learning experience: Changing your own oil can be a valuable learning experience, allowing you to gain a better understanding of your vehicle’s maintenance needs.

Advantages of Professional Oil Service

Expert mechanics: Professional service centers employ trained mechanics who have the expertise and specialized tools to perform oil changes and other maintenance tasks correctly.
Oil change sticker and paperwork: Professional service centers will typically provide you with an oil change sticker and paperwork, which can serve as a record of your vehicle’s maintenance history.
Warranties and service plans: If your Honda Accord is still under warranty or you have a service plan, professional oil changes may be included at no additional cost.

Proper Oil Disposal After DIY Change

If you choose to perform DIY oil changes, it’s essential to properly dispose of the used oil to avoid environmental hazards. Improper disposal of used motor oil can contaminate soil and water sources, posing a significant threat to ecosystems and human health.

Here are some tips for proper oil disposal after a DIY oil change:

Locate oil recycling centers in your area: Many auto parts stores, service stations, and municipal facilities offer used oil recycling services. Check with your local authorities or search online for nearby oil recycling centers.
Use dedicated containers: When draining the used oil from your Honda Accord, make sure to use a dedicated container specifically designed for holding used motor oil. These containers are typically made of durable plastic and have secure lids to prevent spills.
Transport oil carefully: Once you’ve collected the used oil in a suitable container, transport it carefully to the recycling center. Secure the container in your vehicle to prevent spills during transit.
Some auto parts stores accept used oil: Many auto parts retailers, such as AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and NAPA Auto Parts, offer used oil recycling services. You can typically bring your used oil to these stores for proper disposal.

Failing to dispose of used motor oil properly can result in hefty fines and legal penalties, depending on your local regulations. Additionally, it’s essential to prioritize environmental responsibility and prevent the contamination of natural resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my Honda Accord’s oil?

The recommended oil change interval for most Honda Accord models is typically between 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. However, it’s essential to consult your owner’s manual or speak with a professional mechanic, as these intervals can vary based on your specific driving conditions, such as frequent towing, extreme temperatures, or stop-and-go city driving.

What happens if I miss an oil change interval?

Driving with old, dirty oil for an extended period can have severe consequences for your Honda Accord’s engine. It can lead to increased wear and tear, sludge buildup, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially even engine failure. If you’ve missed an oil change interval, it’s crucial to have the oil changed as soon as possible and consider having your mechanic inspect the engine for any potential damage.

How do I locate the oil filter on my Honda Accord?

The location of the oil filter on your Honda Accord can vary depending on the model year and engine type. In general, the oil filter is typically located near the top or front of the engine, often accessible from the top or side of the engine bay. Consult your owner’s manual or seek assistance from a professional mechanic if you’re unsure of the exact location for your specific Accord model.

Other Honda Accord Maintenance Tips

While regular oil changes are essential for maintaining your Honda Accord, there are several other maintenance tasks that should be performed regularly to keep your vehicle in top condition:

Checking and topping up other fluids: Regularly check and top up fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid according to the recommended intervals in your owner’s manual.
Tire rotation: Rotating your tires at regular intervals (typically every 5,000 to 8,000 miles) can help ensure even wear and extend the life of your tires.
Air filter replacement: Replace the engine air filter according to the recommended intervals to ensure proper air flow and engine performance.
Belts, hoses, and battery replacement: Have your mechanic inspect and replace worn belts, hoses, and the battery as needed to prevent potential breakdowns or issues.

In Closing

Resetting the oil life indicator on your Honda Accord is a straightforward process that should be performed after every oil change. By following the step-by-step instructions for your specific model year, using the recommended oil type, and not resetting the indicator without actually changing the oil, you can ensure accurate tracking of your vehicle’s maintenance needs.

Consistent oil changes and staying on top of other routine maintenance tasks are essential for prolonging the lifespan of your Honda Accord and maintaining its optimal performance on the road. Whether you choose to perform DIY oil changes or rely on professional service, prioritizing proper maintenance will save you from costly repairs and breakdowns in the long run.