Toyota added the maintenance light to the Tacoma to remind you when it’s time to change your oil, rotate your tires, or do other recommended maintenance tasks.
Why Is Toyota Tacoma’s Maintenance Light On?
The light comes on when you have driven 5,000 miles since the last maintenance reset. It serves to remind you to make an appointment with the dealership.
How Does the Maintenance Light Help the Driver?
It’s easy to forget the last time you changed the oil or rotated the tires on your truck, so this light is a visible reminder to take action on a maintenance item. A well-maintained Toyota Tacoma will last years.
Reset Toyota Tacoma Maintenance Light
Once you take care of the scheduled service – either by yourself or at the dealership – you may need to reset the maintenance light. Here are the instructions for resetting the light based on your model year.
2009 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
Toyota Tacoma 2011 and Earlier Models
- Put your key in the ignition;
- Turn it to the “off” position;
- Remove the key;
- Push the trip meter reset button and hold it in;
- Put the key back in and turn it to the “on” position;
- Hold the trip meter reset button for 10 seconds. The light will flash/beep, then go out;
- Release the trip meter reset button once the odometer says “zero”;
- Start the car once the light goes out.
If the light stays on, only repeat the process twice before getting help from your dealership. You may need other services.
Toyota Tacoma 2012-2017 Models
- Put your key in the ignition;
- Turn your key on to the first position – or use the “start button” without pressing the brake pedal;
- Make sure that the trip meter reset is on “A”;
- Turn your key off;
- Press the trip meter reset button down;
- SLOWLY turn the key back on to the first position while holding the reset button;
- Release and press the trip button until zero is on the odometer reading;
- Your light should be off now.
If the light does not go out, you may need another maintenance service.
2017 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
Toyota Tacoma 2018-2022 Models
- Put your foot on the brake;
- Press the “push to start button” twice to get to the “accessory mode”;
- Use the right side of your steering wheel and press the “back button” once;
- Use the arrows and arrow over to the “gear” icon;
- Once at the “gear” icon, go to “settings”;
- Arrow down until you reach “maintenance reset”;
- Press “maintenance reset”;
- Arrow up to “yes” to complete your maintenance reset.
If your maintenance light’s still on, ask your Toyota dealer what other services you need.
What oil should you use on your Toyota Tacoma?
The two types of oil used in cars include conventional oil and synthetic oil. Regular, traditional oil is mined and has been used since the beginning of engines. The synthetic oils are chemically refined for a longer-lasting and effective lubricant. This is the oil that most high-performance and off-road vehicles use since it performs better when the temperatures are higher. Synthetics may be a bit more expensive, but they last longer, meaning fewer oil changes and filters.
2011-2015 Models
Toyota recommends SAE 0W-20 and 5W-30 with the API Certification Seal.
2020 Model
Toyota recommends a synthetic grade SAE 0W-20 or SW 5W-20 oil in the newer trucks. The first oil they recommend is Toyota Genuine oil, while Castrol GTX 0W-20 high mileage is the second choice. They also recommend Mobil 1 Extended Performance 0W-20 synthetic.
2021 and 2022 Models
Like the 2020 models, Toyota recommends a synthetic grade SAE 0W-20 or SW 5W-20 oil. The first oil they recommend is Toyota Genuine oil, while Castrol GTX 0W-20 high mileage is the second choice. They also recommend Mobil 1 Extended Performance 0W-20 synthetic.
How long does my engine oil last?
Engine oil usually lasts more than the recommended time frame, but most manufacturers say to change the oil between 3,000 and 5,000 miles if you’re using conventional oil. The synthetic oil can last between 7,500 to 10,000 miles. Always change your oil filter whenever you change your oil.
How long can you drive a car without oil?
Your engine must have oil in it to run since the oil lubricates the parts and keeps them from grinding together. If there is no oil, the parts will immediately become damaged, even if it seems like the engine has been running long. Even if the engine still has some oil, it is a thin layer between parts that will quickly wear off.
Why Does My Maintenance Light Stay ON after an Oil Change?
You may need other maintenance if your maintenance light is still on after an oil change. You might need your tires rotated or your brakes checked for wear. If you’ve done all the maintenance, you may have a battery connection like corrosion. If you have any questions, you can always check with your Toyota dealer.
How Often Does the Maintenance Light Come On?
The maintenance light comes on every 5,000 miles since that is the standard mileage interval recommended by Toyota for basic servicing like oil and filter changes (when you use conventional oil) and an overall inspection of other fluids, tire pressure, brake checks, and belt tension.
Clearing a maintenance light is not hard on the Tacoma, but always remember to do the recommended service before you clear the light. It is a reminder to keep your Tacoma in top condition by doing all the scheduled services in the owner’s manual.
