How to Reset the Toyota Highlander Oil Light in Two Minutes

Check Which Warning Light Is Glowing Before You Drive

When a warning lights up on your Toyota Highlander dashboard screen, look closely at the color and symbol before reacting. A yellow or amber message reading "MAINT REQD," "Maintenance Required," or "Maintenance Required Soon" is a routine mileage counter. It triggers automatically every 5,000 miles to remind you that an oil change, tire rotation, or fluid check is due. It does not measure oil cleanliness, thickness, or level. If someone recently changed your oil but forgot to reset the system, the light still turns on right on schedule. You can safely finish your drive without risking engine damage.

A red oil can symbol is a completely different situation. That red icon warns of low engine oil pressure or a severe loss of oil. Engine oil creates a protective barrier between fast-moving metal parts like pistons, bearings, and camshafts. When pressure drops, metal parts grind together, causing severe heat and friction that can destroy an engine within minutes. If that red oil can icon lights up while driving, pull over safely, turn off the ignition, and let the vehicle rest. Check the engine dipstick under the hood. If the dipstick is dry, add oil before starting the car again. If the red light stays on even with full oil, do not drive; call a tow truck immediately. Dashboard buttons cannot clear a red oil pressure warning, because it only turns off when mechanical pressure returns to normal.

Use Your Steering Wheel Controls to Clear Newer Dashboard Screens

Third and fourth generation Toyota Highlanders (built from 2014 through 2026) manage maintenance reminders digitally through menus on the central dashboard screen. You do not have to touch any physical pins on the gauge face. Instead, you navigate the system using the directional keypad and the center OK button on your steering wheel.

Before starting, shift into Park, set the parking brake, and close all doors. An open door message will block access to the maintenance menu. Follow these steps to reset the counter:

1. Turn the vehicle on without starting the engine. With a physical key, turn it two clicks forward to the run position. With a push-button start, press the ignition button twice with your foot off the brake pedal. The dashboard screen will turn on, but the engine will remain off.
2. Dismiss any active alerts. If a warning like an open door or low washer fluid appears, press the return arrow button on the steering wheel to clear it.
3. Navigate to settings. Press the left or right arrow button on your steering wheel until you highlight the gear icon at the top of the screen.
4. Open vehicle settings. Press the down arrow until you reach "Vehicle Settings," then press the center OK button.
5. Select maintenance data. Scroll down to highlight "Scheduled Maintenance" (labeled "Maintenance Data" on some model years), then press OK.
6. Confirm the reset. The screen will ask "Reset Data?". Use the up arrow to highlight "Yes," then press the center OK button.
7. Verify the reset. The dashboard screen will display "The Data Has Been Reset." Turn the vehicle off, wait a few seconds, and start the engine to confirm the reminder message is gone.

Hold Down the Trip Button for Older Dashboards

First and second generation Highlanders (built from 2001 to 2013) use a mechanical reset sequence. You complete this using the odometer stem (a small plastic trip button on the dash sticking through the gauge cover). This single button cycles between mileage screens and triggers the reset sequence in the computer.

Highlanders made between 2001 and 2007 generally reset from the main odometer screen, while models from 2008 to 2013 require setting the display to Trip A first. If you are unsure which mode your year uses, start with Trip A. Follow these steps to clear the light:

1. Power up the electrical system with the engine off. Turn the key two clicks forward, or tap the start button twice with your foot off the brake.
2. Set the mileage display. Tap the small plastic trip button on the dash until the screen shows "Trip A." (If Trip A fails later on a 2001 to 2007 model, repeat using the "ODO" mileage screen instead).
3. Turn the ignition switch completely off. Leave the key in the ignition, or keep your smart key fob inside the cabin.
4. Press and hold down the small plastic trip button on the dash. Keep holding it down firmly.
5. Turn the ignition back to the run position with your other hand while holding the button. Do not start the engine.
6. Watch the screen. A series of small horizontal dashes will appear across the odometer display. These dashes will blink and disappear one by one from left to right.
7. Wait for zeros. Once the dashes disappear, a row of zeros will flash, followed by your normal mileage returning.
8. Release the trip button. Turn the ignition off, then start the engine to confirm the "MAINT REQD" light stays off.

Keep Your Foot Off the Brake When Cycling the Push Button

Failed reset attempts on push-button start Highlanders usually happen because of small timing or pedal errors. The smart key system responds differently depending on your brake pedal position. Keep these practical tips in mind:

• Keep both feet off the pedals. Pressing the brake pedal tells the vehicle to start the engine when you press the button. The reset sequence only works in accessory or ignition ON (car powered up with engine off).
• Press the start button twice deliberately. The first press turns on accessory power for the radio. The second press turns on full ignition power, lighting the dashboard screen and climate controls. That second press is what you need for the reset.
• Coordinate both hands on 2008 to 2013 push-button models. On these models, hold down the small plastic trip button on the dash with one hand before pressing the engine start button twice with the other hand. Pausing too long between taps causes the system to drop out of mode.
• Watch for weak smart key batteries. If your key fob battery is dying, the vehicle may cut power halfway through the countdown. If dash lights shut off mid-reset, hold the key fob directly against the start button while cycling power.

Look for Underlying Engine Faults If the Reminder Returns Immediately

If the maintenance light stays on or returns immediately after you finish the steps, one of these common issues is usually the cause:

• You reset the wrong trip odometer. On older dashboards, holding the button while on Trip B only clears your Trip B mileage, leaving the maintenance timer untouched. Always verify the display shows Trip A before turning off the car.
• The trip button was released too early. The countdown dashes take five to seven seconds to clear. Releasing the button while dashes are still vanishing aborts the reset. Hold it until the zeros flash and your mileage returns.
• An engine fault code is stored in the computer. If an amber Check Engine Light is illuminated alongside your maintenance notice, the car has detected an engine or emissions problem. Active fault codes often keep service notices displayed until the underlying issue is fixed.
• The light was flashing instead of glowing solid. When your Highlander reaches 4,500 miles past its last reset, the light blinks for about fifteen seconds at startup to signal upcoming service. Once you cross 5,000 miles, it stays on solid. You can reset the counter during either stage.

If you use your Highlander for road trips or camping, having reliable interior lighting makes cabin tasks and maintenance checks much simpler. Using the best camping LED strip lights gives you clean interior illumination that will not drain your starter battery. For custom cargo or van builds, following the power setup of the best LED strip lights for van travel keeps your 12V accessories safely separated from vehicle computer circuits.

Keep a Basic Diagnostic Scanner Handy for Persistent Engine Codes

For routine oil changes, you do not need to buy any diagnostic tools or pay a repair shop to clear your dashboard screen. Built-in steering wheel buttons and odometer stems clear the maintenance light for free in under two minutes.

However, if the maintenance light refuses to clear, or if an amber check engine light glows alongside it, an entry-level diagnostic scanner is a helpful tool to keep in your vehicle. These handheld code readers plug directly into the diagnostic port beneath your steering wheel and draw power straight from the car. They communicate with the vehicle computer to read engine fault codes that trigger warning lights.

When choosing a scanner for home maintenance, look for a compact model with a clear, backlit screen that displays code definitions directly, rather than just raw numbers. A reliable reader should read and clear standard engine trouble codes, helping you determine whether an alert comes from a loose gas cap or a part that requires professional repair.

1

ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  9.2
• Brand
  ANCEL

Key specs2

OBDII Protocol Support

• Covers KWP2000, J1850 VPW, and ISO9141
• Supports J1850 PWM and standard CAN networks

Power Source

Direct vehicle OBDII port power

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Draws power directly through the vehicle OBDII port with no internal batteries or external charger required
• Features a 2.5-foot cable with heavy insulation to withstand garage floor drops
• Displays freeze frame data, live sensor feeds, and emissions readiness status directly on screen

Cons

• Focuses solely on engine emissions codes and lacks ABS, SRS, or oil reset functions
• Requires verifying compatibility before purchase because protocol support varies on older imports

2

VDIAGTOOL VD10 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool Engine

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  9.2
• Brand
  VDIAGTOOL

Key specs2

Code Library

Built-in database with over 3,000 code definitions

Warranty Coverage

3-year manufacturer warranty

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Built-in library of over 3,000 fault codes displays definitions directly on the TFT screen
• Backs basic diagnostics with a 3-year manufacturer warranty
• Retrieves generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes alongside freeze frame sensor data

Cons

• Does not perform dedicated oil maintenance service resets or advanced brake calibrations
• Screen size and exact display resolution are unstated in the listing

3

Innova 5210 OBD2 Scanner & Engine Code Reader, Battery Tester,

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  9.0
• Brand
  Innova

Key specs2

Oil Service Reset

Supported for oil maintenance reminder clearing

App Connectivity

Pairs with the RepairSolutions2 mobile application via Bluetooth to access verified repair recommendations without subscription fees.

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Includes a dedicated oil maintenance reset function to turn off service reminders after oil changes
• Reads and clears anti-lock brake codes alongside standard check engine faults
• Pairs via Bluetooth with the RepairSolutions2 mobile app for repair guidance without monthly fees
• Monitors alternator and battery charging health directly through the vehicle diagnostic port

Cons

• ABS code diagnosis varies by vehicle make and requires verification via the Innova coverage checker
• Transmission and airbag system diagnostic functions are not supported

4

OBDMATE OBD2 Scanner with ABS SRS Transmission, Reset Fault Lights

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  9.0
• Brand
  OBDMATE

Key specs2

System Coverage

• Engine control module (ECM)
• Transmission control module (TCM)
• Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
• Supplemental restraint system (SRS)

Enclosure and Accessories

Comes with an impact-resistant silicone protective bumper, a zip-up hard storage case, and a USB-C update cord.

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Covers four major vehicle systems including engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS airbag modules
• Equipped with a 3.5-inch color display and a dedicated one-touch emissions readiness button
• Includes a protective silicone sleeve, hard-shell storage case, and USB-C connection cable
• Monitors 16-pin DLC port voltage and main battery voltage levels directly

Cons

• Does not include dedicated maintenance resets like oil interval or electronic parking brake resets
• Screen resolution and internal memory capacity are not specified

5

BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader Engine ABS SRS

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  8.8
• Brand
  BLCKTEC

Key specs2

Maintenance Service Resets

• Oil maintenance and fluid change resets
• Electronic parking brake and ABS bleeding
• Throttle relearn and battery initialization
• Steering angle calibration and TPMS relearn

Diagnostic Breadth

All-system ECU scanning with 4-stream live data

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Provides 12 workshop service resets including oil reminder, throttle relearn, and electronic parking brake
• Scans all available electronic vehicle modules beyond standard four-system diagnostics
• Features AutoVIN scanning and graphs up to four real-time data streams simultaneously
• Connects with the free RepairSolutions2 mobile application for repair guidance and service schedules

Cons

• Specific service reset functions vary by vehicle year and model, requiring verification before purchase
• Physical display dimensions are not provided in the listing specifications

6

AVAPOW AV-D600 4 Systems OBD2 Scanner Engine/Transmission/SRS/ABS Diagnostic Tool, Oil

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  8.4
• Brand
  AVAPOW

Key specs2

Software Update Method

Direct onboard Wi-Fi without a computer

Integrated Service Modes

• Oil maintenance reset
• Electronic parking brake (EPB) reset
• Battery registration and matching

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Delivers built-in oil reminder, electronic parking brake, and battery registration reset functions
• Connects directly to Wi-Fi for lifetime software and code library updates without needing a computer
• Scans four vital vehicle areas covering the engine, transmission, ABS, and airbag systems
• Features automated VIN retrieval to identify vehicle details instantly

Cons

• Does not perform specialized functions like steering angle calibration or diesel particulate filter regeneration
• Screen size and exact dimensions are omitted from the technical specifications

7

VEHPOW Car Code Reader OBD2 Scanner for Check Engine Light

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  8.4
• Brand
  Vehpow

Key specs2

Display and Protection

Features a 2.8-inch readout screen encased in a thick silicone bumper to guard against garage drops.

System Limitations

Engine and OBDII only; no ABS or transmission

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Features a dedicated oil light reset capability alongside standard emissions diagnostics
• Equipped with a 2.8-inch display screen wrapped in an impact-resistant silicone protective sleeve
• Includes an insulated 2.5-foot diagnostic cable that draws direct power from the vehicle OBD port
• Displays real-time sensor streams including engine revolutions, temperature, and fuel trims

Cons

• Explicitly does not scan or clear ABS brakes or transmission control modules
• Weighs 1.77 pounds, making it bulkier and heavier than basic handheld code readers

8

OBDMATE OBD2 Scanner for Toyota/Lexus/Scion, OM701 All Systems Diagnostic Tool

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  8.2
• Brand
  OBDMATE

Key specs2

Brand Focus

Engineered with deep system-level diagnostic routines for Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles from 1996 to 2023.

Special Service Capabilities

• Oil service interval reset
• Electronic throttle body relearn
• Anti-lock brake bleeding
• Battery management system reset

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Provides full-system manufacturer diagnostics specifically tailored for Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles
• Supplies 15 maintenance functions including oil interval resets, throttle relearns, and ABS bleeding
• Includes lifetime free software updates without annual fees or subscription costs
• Backed by a 3-year manufacturer quality warranty

Cons

• TPMS feature only accepts manual sensor ID entry and cannot trigger or relearn sensors directly
• Full-system scanning is limited to Toyota family brands while other makes only receive basic engine coverage

9

Aupoko Reset Oil Service Tool, 20 Pins Socket OBD Oil

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  8.0
• Brand
  Aupoko

Key specs2

Connector Interface

Proprietary 20-pin round under-hood diagnostic plug

Vehicle Compatibility

Dedicated exclusively to vintage 1986 to 2001 BMW 3, 5, and 7 series chassis; does not connect to Toyota 16-pin ports.

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Plugs directly into vintage 20-pin under-hood diagnostic ports without requiring external batteries
• Resets service intervals and inspection lights on compatible older vehicles in a few simple steps
• Compact, lightweight build at under 6 ounces makes it easy to keep inside a glove compartment

Cons

• Completely incompatible with Toyota Highlander models or standard 16-pin OBDII ports
• Engineered strictly for select BMW models manufactured between 1986 and 2001

10

AICEL TPMS Relearn Tool for Car Tire Sensor, EL-50448 Tire

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  7.2
• Brand
  AICEL

Key specs2

Primary Application

Tire pressure monitoring system sensor activation

Operating Conditions

Functions in ambient temperatures ranging from -20 to 80 degrees Celsius using an external 9-volt power supply.

Pros & cons33

Pros

• Activates and relearns tire pressure monitoring sensors during rotations or sensor replacements
• Compact ABS plastic handheld housing operates across temperatures from -20 to 80 degrees Celsius
• Triggers tire pressure sensors within one to two minutes when placed near the valve stem

Cons

• Does not reset engine oil lights, read diagnostic trouble codes, or connect to vehicle OBDII ports
• Requires a separate 9-volt battery that is not permanently integrated into the tool
• Not designed for heavy commercial trucks

11

OBD2 Scanner Check Engine Light Car Code Reader Clear Error

View on Amazon

• LFR Score

  LFR Score is a ranking system developed by lightfansreviews.com. LFR Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

  7.2
• Brand
  AFS QIORE

Key specs2

Toyota System Diagnostics

• Engine and electronic transmission control
• Anti-lock braking and supplemental airbags
• Steering angle sensor and tire pressure monitoring

Onboard DTC Library

100,000+ trouble codes with built-in screen definitions

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Performs full system scans across Toyota vehicles from 1996 through 2024 model years
• Covers engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, steering angle, and tire pressure monitoring systems
• Features a 2.8-inch color TFT display paired with a built-in library of over 100,000 code definitions
• Generates shareable vehicle diagnostic reports capable of downloading via cloud print

Cons

• Deep multi-system access is restricted to Toyota, Honda, Acura, and select Lincoln models
• Warranty duration is not stated in the technical specifications

Last update on 2026-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQs

Do I need a special tool or scanner to turn off the regular maintenance light?

No, you do not need any scan tools or computer software to clear the standard maintenance reminder. Every generation of the Toyota Highlander includes a free manual reset procedure using either the steering wheel buttons or the small plastic trip button on the dash. You only need a diagnostic scanner if a separate check engine light is also glowing on your dashboard.

Will resetting the oil light clear my radio presets or trip odometer?

Resetting the maintenance reminder only resets the 5,000-mile countdown timer stored in the vehicle computer. Your radio stations, Bluetooth pairings, clock settings, and personal preferences remain completely unchanged. If you drive an older Highlander that uses Trip A for the reset, that specific trip counter will drop to zero, but your main odometer and audio settings stay untouched.

Why does the maintenance required light flash when I first start the car?

A flashing maintenance light means you are approaching your next scheduled service interval. Toyota programs the system to blink the light for about fifteen seconds at startup once you drive 4,500 miles past your last reset. After you reach 5,000 miles, the light stops blinking and stays on continuously until you perform the manual reset procedure.

Can I reset the maintenance reminder before the light actually comes on?

Yes, you can reset the maintenance counter at any time, which is helpful if you change your oil earlier than the standard 5,000-mile interval. Simply follow the exact button procedure for your model year even if the dashboard light is not illuminated. The vehicle computer will restart the 5,000-mile countdown from the moment you complete the reset.