Is your Honda Fit flashing a maintenance reminder after that last oil change at Jiffy Lube? The Honda Fit, a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and reliability, uses a sophisticated system to estimate oil life based on driving conditions. Many owners find themselves asking how to reset the oil life on a Honda Fit after performing an oil change themselves or having it done. This process, although straightforward, differs slightly across model years, necessitating clear instructions. Fortunately, even if you are not an ASE certified mechanic, resetting the oil life indicator is a task you can easily accomplish with the right guidance, ensuring your Fit’s maintenance minder system accurately reflects your car’s oil condition and helps you avoid unnecessary trips to the dealership.
Resetting Your Honda Fit’s Oil Life: A Simple Guide
Keeping up with your Honda Fit’s maintenance is crucial for its longevity, and resetting the oil life indicator after an oil change is a key part of that. This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step process on how to reset the oil life on a Honda Fit, ensuring your car’s computer accurately tracks when your next service is due.
First, understand why resetting the oil life is important. Your Honda Fit uses a sophisticated system to estimate oil life based on driving conditions, mileage, and time. Failing to reset the system after an oil change means the car will continue using old data, potentially leading to premature service reminders or, conversely, running your oil longer than recommended.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps you’ll need to take. Note that the exact wording on your dashboard display might vary slightly depending on the year of your Honda Fit, but the overall process remains consistent.
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Preparation is Key: Ensure your Honda Fit is parked on a level surface with the engine turned off. The ignition should be in the "ON" position (two clicks forward) but the engine should not be running.
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Navigating the Information Display:
- Look for the "Info" button on your steering wheel. This button is typically located on the right-hand side and allows you to cycle through the different information screens on your dashboard.
- Press the "Info" button repeatedly until you find the screen displaying the "Oil Life" or "Maintenance" information. It usually shows the percentage of remaining oil life.
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Initiating the Reset:
- Once the "Oil Life" display is visible, press and hold the "Select/Reset" button (often located on the steering wheel, sometimes part of the "Info" button cluster). You might need to hold it for approximately 10-15 seconds.
- A message will typically appear, asking if you want to reset the oil life. Common prompts include "Reset Mode" or a similar variation.
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Confirming the Reset:
- Use the "Info" button to select "Yes" or "Reset" (depending on the wording displayed).
- Press the "Select/Reset" button again to confirm your selection.
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Verification:
- The display should now show that the oil life has been reset to 100%. If it doesn’t, repeat the steps above carefully.
- Turn the ignition off and then back on to double-check that the oil life reading is indeed at 100%.
| Step | Action | Expected Outcome | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ignition ON, Engine OFF | Dashboard lights up; engine remains off | Ensures you can access the menu without starting the car. |
| 2 | Press "Info" Button repeatedly | Oil Life/Maintenance Screen is displayed | Locate the screen showing the remaining oil life percentage. |
| 3 | Press & Hold "Select/Reset" Button | "Reset Mode" prompt appears on the display | Hold for about 10-15 seconds until the reset prompt appears. |
| 4 | Select "Yes" or "Reset" using "Info" Button | Option selected | Use the "Info" button to navigate and select the confirmation option. |
| 5 | Confirm with "Select/Reset" Button | Oil Life resets to 100% | This final click confirms your choice and resets the system. |
| 6 | Verify: Ignition OFF then ON | Display confirms 100% Oil Life | Double-check that the reset was successful by turning the car off and then on again. |
If you encounter difficulties, consult your Honda Fit’s owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model year. The manual will contain precise diagrams and instructions tailored to your vehicle. Alternatively, you can visit a reputable mechanic or your local Honda dealership for assistance.
FAQs: Reset Honda Fit Oil Life
What’s the point of resetting the oil life indicator?
The oil life indicator on your Honda Fit reminds you when it’s time for an oil change. Resetting it after you’ve changed the oil ensures accurate future reminders. Knowing how to reset the oil life on a Honda Fit prevents premature or delayed oil changes.
Why does my maintenance minder show a code after the oil change?
Sometimes other maintenance items are due along with the oil change. These codes appear on the display. If you only performed the oil change, reset the oil life, but ignore the other maintenance items, those specific codes will still be present.
Can I damage my car if I don’t reset the oil life after changing the oil?
No, not resetting the oil life won’t directly damage your car. However, the maintenance minder will continue to display that an oil change is needed, and you won’t receive accurate future reminders. Knowing how to reset the oil life on a Honda Fit helps the reminder system function correctly.
What if I can’t find the "Maintenance" or "Vehicle" information screen?
The exact menu names may vary slightly depending on the Honda Fit’s year. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. Referencing the manual will explain how to reset the oil life on a Honda Fit if the directions differ.
So, there you have it! Resetting the oil life on your Honda Fit is a breeze once you know the steps. Now you can get back on the road with peace of mind, knowing your maintenance reminder is accurate and your Fit is running smoothly. Happy driving!