018 Chevy Equinox Oil Light On? Here’s How to Reset It Easily!

The dreaded oil light. It’s a universal symbol of car trouble, and it can send even the most experienced driver into a panic. But fear not! While a flashing oil light typically signals a serious issue, a steady oil light often simply means it’s time for an oil change. Once you’ve taken care of the oil change, you’ll need to reset the light on your 2018 Chevy Equinox.

This blog post will walk you through the process of resetting the oil light on your 2018 Chevy Equinox, providing a clear and concise guide to help you get back on the road with confidence.

Understanding the Oil Light

Before we dive into the resetting process, it’s essential to understand why the oil light comes on in the first place. The oil light is connected to a sensor that monitors the oil level in your engine. When the oil level drops below a certain threshold, the light illuminates, alerting you to a potential problem.

Why Reset the Oil Light?

Resetting the oil light is crucial after an oil change for several reasons:

• Accurate Monitoring: The light serves as a critical indicator of your engine’s health. Resetting it ensures that you receive accurate notifications about future oil level changes.
• Avoiding False Alarms: A non-reset oil light can trigger unnecessary warnings, potentially leading to unnecessary anxiety and even unnecessary maintenance.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your oil light is properly reset provides peace of mind and allows you to focus on enjoying your drive.

The Reset Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the importance of resetting the oil light, let’s get down to the actual process. Here’s how to reset the oil light on your 2018 Chevy Equinox:

1. Start the Engine: Turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine. This will power up the dashboard and allow you to access the necessary menus.

2. Access the Information Center: Locate the information center on your dashboard. This is typically a small screen that displays various vehicle data, including the oil life percentage.

3. Navigate to the Oil Life Menu: Use the steering wheel controls or the buttons on the dashboard to navigate to the “Oil Life” menu. The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your Equinox’s model and trim level.

4. Reset the Oil Life: Once you’ve reached the “Oil Life” menu, you’ll see a percentage indicating the remaining oil life. Press and hold the “SET” button on the steering wheel or the button on the dashboard until the oil life percentage resets to 100%.

5. Confirmation: The oil light should now be off, and the oil life percentage should be reset to 100%. You can confirm this by checking the information center again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the reset process is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Turning the Key to “On”: Ensure that you turn the ignition key to the “On” position before attempting to reset the oil light.
• Using the Wrong Button: Double-check the button used to reset the oil life. It’s usually the “SET” button on the steering wheel or a dedicated button on the dashboard.
• Not Holding the Button Long Enough: You need to hold the “SET” button until the oil life percentage resets to 100%.

What if the Oil Light Doesn’t Reset?

If you’ve followed the steps above and the oil light remains on, there might be a more serious issue at hand. Here are some potential reasons why the light might not reset:

• Faulty Sensor: The oil level sensor might be malfunctioning, preventing the light from resetting.
• Electrical Problem: A problem with the electrical system connected to the oil light could be preventing it from turning off.
• Oil Change Not Performed Properly: If the oil change was not performed correctly, the oil level sensor might not be detecting the proper oil level.

If you suspect a problem beyond a simple reset, it’s essential to consult a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Maintaining Your Equinox’s Engine

Resetting the oil light is just one aspect of maintaining your 2018 Chevy Equinox‘s engine. Here are some essential tips for keeping your engine running smoothly:

• Regular Oil Changes: Follow the recommended oil change intervals outlined in your owner’s manual.
• Use the Right Oil: Use the type of oil recommended by Chevrolet for your Equinox.
• Check Oil Levels Regularly: Regularly check your oil level using the dipstick and top it off as needed.
• Inspect Filters: Replace your oil filter during each oil change.

Keeping Your Engine Running Smoothly

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily reset the oil light on your 2018 Chevy Equinox and ensure that you’re receiving accurate notifications about your engine’s health. Remember to perform regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, to keep your engine running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I reset the oil light without changing the oil?

A: No, resetting the oil light without changing the oil is not recommended. The light serves as a reminder that your oil needs to be changed, and ignoring this warning can lead to engine damage.

Q: How often should I change the oil in my 2018 Chevy Equinox?

A: The recommended oil change interval for your 2018 Chevy Equinox is typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. However, it’s best to consult your owner’s manual for the specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Q: What happens if I drive with the oil light on?

A: Driving with the oil light on can lead to serious engine damage. Without sufficient lubrication, engine parts can wear down and eventually fail, resulting in costly repairs or even a complete engine replacement.

Q: Can I reset the oil light using a code reader?

A: While some code readers can reset oil lights, they are not universally compatible with all vehicles. It’s best to consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic to determine the best method for resetting the oil light on your 2018 Chevy Equinox.