Discover the Surprising Trick to Reset Your 2018 Honda Ridgeline Oil Light

The “Oil Change Required” light on your 2018 Honda Ridgeline is a crucial indicator that it’s time for a vital maintenance procedure. This light serves as a reminder to change the oil and oil filter, ensuring your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. While the process of resetting the oil light is straightforward, understanding the steps involved is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s health. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of resetting the oil light on your 2018 Honda Ridgeline, empowering you to handle this task confidently.

Why Is It Important to Reset the Oil Light?

The oil light on your 2018 Honda Ridgeline serves as a reminder to change the oil and filter. This is crucial for several reasons:

• Engine Lubrication: Oil provides essential lubrication for moving engine parts, reducing friction and wear. Regular oil changes ensure optimal lubrication, preventing damage and extending engine life.
• Heat Dissipation: Oil helps dissipate heat generated by the engine, preventing overheating and potential damage.
• Cleaning and Protection: Oil acts as a cleaning agent, removing contaminants and debris that can clog engine components. It also provides a protective barrier against corrosion.

Ignoring the oil light can lead to serious engine problems, including:

• Reduced Engine Performance: Thickened oil can hinder engine performance, causing sluggish acceleration and decreased fuel efficiency.
• Increased Engine Wear: Inadequate lubrication leads to increased friction and wear on engine parts, potentially causing premature failure.
• Engine Damage: Severe oil neglect can lead to engine damage, requiring costly repairs or even engine replacement.

Understanding the Oil Light System

The oil light system in your 2018 Honda Ridgeline is designed to monitor the oil life based on several factors, including:

• Engine Operating Conditions: Factors like driving style, engine load, and ambient temperature influence oil degradation.
• Oil Quality: The type of oil used and its quality impact its lifespan.
• Oil Change Interval: Honda recommends specific oil change intervals for the 2018 Ridgeline, which are typically displayed on the instrument cluster.

How to Reset the Oil Light on Your 2018 Honda Ridgeline

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to reset the oil light on your 2018 Honda Ridgeline:

1. Start the Engine: Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position without starting the engine.

2. Access the Trip Odometer: Locate the trip odometer button on your steering wheel or instrument panel. Press and hold this button until the “Trip A” or “Trip B” display appears.

3. Navigate to the Oil Life Display: Continue pressing the trip odometer button until the “Oil Life” percentage appears. This percentage indicates the remaining life of the oil.

4. Reset the Oil Life: With the “Oil Life” display active, press and hold the trip odometer button for about 10 seconds. You should see the percentage reset to “100%”.

5. Confirm Reset: After releasing the button, the oil light should be extinguished, and the “Oil Life” display should show “100%.”

Additional Tips for Oil Light Resetting

• Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Refer to your 2018 Honda Ridgeline owner’s manual for specific instructions and any additional information about oil change intervals and maintenance procedures.
• Oil Change Frequency: While the oil light indicates when to change the oil, it’s generally recommended to follow the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals, which are typically 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.
• Use the Right Oil: Always use the oil type and viscosity recommended by Honda for your 2018 Ridgeline. Using the wrong oil can harm your engine.
• Check Other Fluids: When changing the oil, it’s also a good practice to check other fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.

Maintaining Your 2018 Honda Ridgeline

Resetting the oil light is just one aspect of maintaining your 2018 Honda Ridgeline. Here are some additional maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections by a qualified mechanic to catch potential issues early.
• Tire Maintenance: Regularly check tire pressure and tread depth. Rotate tires as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Fluid Levels: Monitor fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, and top them off as needed.
• Battery Maintenance: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is properly secured.
• Air Filter Replacement: Replace the air filter at the recommended intervals to ensure proper airflow to the engine.

Time to Drive with Confidence

Understanding how to reset the oil light on your 2018 Honda Ridgeline empowers you to take control of your vehicle’s maintenance. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your Ridgeline continues to run smoothly and reliably for years to come. Remember to always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Ridgeline Rolling

Resetting the oil light is a quick and easy task that can save you time and money in the long run. By staying proactive with your vehicle’s maintenance, you can enjoy a smooth and trouble-free driving experience.

What You Need to Know

Q: What happens if I don’t reset the oil light?

A: The oil light will remain illuminated, serving as a constant reminder to change the oil. While it won’t directly harm your engine, it can be a nuisance and a reminder that you need to perform routine maintenance.

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

A: It’s not recommended to reset the oil light without changing the oil. The light serves as a reminder that the oil needs to be replaced. Resetting it without changing the oil will not accurately reflect the oil’s remaining life.

Q: How often should I change the oil in my 2018 Honda Ridgeline?

A: Honda recommends oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, consult your owner’s manual for the specific recommended interval for your vehicle.

Q: Is it safe to drive with the oil light on?

A: It’s not advisable to drive with the oil light on for an extended period. It indicates that the oil needs to be changed, and driving with low oil levels can damage your engine. If the light comes on, pull over as soon as it’s safe and address the issue.