What does it mean when the car service light is on?

The car service light being on is a reminder to the owner that it is time for maintenance. When this light stays on for a long time, the vehicle should be taken to a 4S dealership for servicing.

Different car models from various companies have different maintenance schedules, which should be based on the vehicle's user manual. After the maintenance is completed, the service light needs to be reset.

Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle.

Modern car maintenance mainly includes the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, power steering system, and other areas.

The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean, ensure normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent failures, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.

To ensure the vehicle's performance, car manufacturers stipulate that maintenance should be performed within specified time and mileage intervals. Car maintenance mainly involves changing the engine oil and oil filter.

To reset the service light, simply insert the car key, press the button under the dashboard, turn the key forward, hold for ten seconds, and then release the button.

When the car service light illuminates, it means your vehicle is due for routine maintenance as scheduled by the manufacturer. This light is triggered by mileage or time intervals and is unrelated to immediate faults or breakdowns. Ignoring it could lead to premature wear or voided warranties.

Modern cars track service intervals using onboard computers. For example, a Ford Focus may alert you every 10,000 miles, while a BMW iX calculates service needs based on driving conditions. The light resets after servicing, but some models require manual resetting via the infotainment system or a sequence of button presses.

Key maintenance tasks typically include:

1. Oil and filter changes – critical for engine longevity.
2. Brake fluid checks – moisture absorption reduces effectiveness over time.
3. Tyre rotation and pressure adjustments – ensures even wear and fuel efficiency.
4. Air filter replacement – prevents debris from entering the engine.

If the light flashes or appears alongside a warning symbol (e.g., an oil can), seek immediate attention—this indicates a fault rather than routine servicing. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.