Steps to Reset the Honda Odyssey Maintenance Light (2011-2018)
Press the start button twice without your foot on the brake to put the Honda Odyssey into run mode (engine off) OR start the engine.
Press the SETTINGS button under the information display screen.
Use the Scroll wheel and joystick to select VEHICLE SETTINGS.
Scroll down and select MAINTENANCE RESET.
The information display screen will show B: Oil & Filter and 1: Tire Rotation. Use the scroll wheel and PUSH IT DOWN.
Select RESET.
A message will appear “Would you like to reset maintenance information?”
Select RESET
If successful the oil life percentage will reset to 100%.
The 2011-2018 Honda Odyssey Service Required Maintenance reminder should only be reset after changing the oil and oil filter on the car.
Why It's Important to Reset the Honda Odyssey Maintenance Light
Resetting the maintenance light and oil life percentage in your Honda Odyssey is crucial for monitoring the timing of your next oil change and assessing the condition of the engine oil. This reset also assists in planning when to schedule your upcoming vehicle service.
KEEP A PERSONAL RECORD OF ALL MAINTENANCE
Keeping a personal log of each oil change and associated maintenance tasks is advantageous. Collect and organize all relevant service records of your Honda Odyssey. This practice ensures optimal upkeep for your Honda Odyssey and establishes a well-documented history of consistent maintenance, which could be beneficial if you decide to sell the vehicle later on.
Honda Odyssey Oil Type and Quantity
The 2011-2018 Honda Odyssey 3.5L V6 requires 4.5 Quarts of 0W-20 Synthetic oil.
Synthetic or Conventional Oil?
The Honda Odyssey’s engine requires synthetic motor oil. Generally, it is advisable to continue using the same type of engine oil as all your previous oil changes. If your Odyssey has been using synthetic oil, stick with it. Otherwise, if you’ve been using conventional or a synthetic blend, keep using that.
TIP: Bring your own oil to your local shop to save money on oil mark-ups.
How Often Should You Change the Oil on Your Honda Odyssey?
It is highly recommended to perform oil changes on your Honda Odyssey every 3,000 miles. While some experts, service centers, and dealerships may suggest longer intervals, sticking to the 3,000-mile routine is vital. Regular adherence to this schedule is key to ensuring your Honda Odyssey’s engine remains in excellent condition and to avoid any potential problems. Routine oil changes contribute to maintaining engine performance and provide an opportunity for a detailed check-up of the vehicle with each service. Engaging in this habit is crucial for early detection and resolution of minor issues before they escalate into larger problems.
What to Do If the Honda Oil Life Reset Procedure Does Not Work?
If you encounter challenges while trying to reset the maintenance light on your Honda Odyssey, consider restarting the process completely. Initially, shut off the engine and the ignition and then begin the reset sequence anew. Make sure the hood and all doors are firmly shut before proceeding.
Why is the Honda Odyssey Maintenance Required Still On After An Oil Change?
Simply changing the oil and oil filter won’t automatically deactivate or reset the maintenance light or the oil life percentage in the Honda Odyssey. If the oil life percentage in your Honda Odyssey doesn’t reset post oil change, it usually indicates that the reset procedure wasn’t executed after changing the oil.
Honda Odyssey Maintenance Tips
Check Tire Pressure and Tire Tread
The recommended tire pressure for your Honda Odyssey is listed on a white sticker on the door panel, which can be seen when you open the driver’s side door. To prevent overinflation, it’s best to inflate the tires when they are cold, meaning either three hours after the vehicle has been driven or before you start driving. For evaluating the wear of the tire tread, utilize either the penny test or a tread depth gauge.
Rotate Your Tires
We advise rotating the tires of your Honda Odyssey with every other oil change, assuming you’re following our suggested 3,000-mile oil change interval, or otherwise every 6,000 miles.
TIP: If your local shop or dealership recommends tires on your Honda Odyssey, check your tire tread yourself with a tire tread depth gauge!
Check the Coolant Level
Make sure the coolant level is within the correct range in the coolant reservoir, sitting between the minimum and maximum indicator marks. Employing a flashlight can assist in better visibility inside the coolant container. Since the coolant system is sealed, a significantly low coolant level could suggest a leak. Conducting a pressure test on the system is an effective method for detecting any possible leaks.
Check the Brake Pads and Rotors
Inspect the brake pad thickness on both front and rear brakes of your Honda Odyssey to confirm they have enough pad material. Utilize a brake pad measuring tool for an accurate thickness assessment. Additionally, examine the rotors for any rust or anomalies. When your Honda Odyssey is elevated on a jack or lift, rotate each wheel manually (with the parking brake disengaged) to check for smooth rotation. Resistance in any wheel’s movement could indicate an issue with the brake caliper or jammed slider pins in the caliper.
Check Brake Fluid Reservoir
It’s essential to maintain a full brake fluid reservoir in your Honda Odyssey. Discovering an unusually low level of brake fluid typically implies a leak in the system. In this event, first replenish the brake fluid reservoir and pump the brake pedal, then proceed to examine the brake calipers and lines for any indications of leaks.
Check Washer Fluid Level
Refill your washer fluid reservoir. During winter, choose a washer fluid with antifreeze properties to avoid freezing inside the container.
Check the Engine and Cabin Air Filters
Access the air filter box in your Honda Odyssey and extract the air filter. If it looks dirty, clean it using compressed air, a vacuum, or by shaking out the dust and debris. In case of excessive dirtiness, replace it with a new one. If it appears fairly clean, just put it back in place. Don’t forget to inspect the cabin air filter located behind the glove box, which purifies the air inside the cabin. Change this filter if it’s unclean or has not been replaced before.
Check Power Steering Fluid
Ensure that the power steering fluid in your Honda Odyssey is at the ‘full’ level on the reservoir. A lower than normal fluid level might point to a leak in the power steering system. Should the level be low, refill the fluid and proceed to inspect the power steering rack and lines for any possible leaks.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
Throughout my ten years as an automotive technician in both dealership and independent shop settings, I’ve observed that vehicles without regular maintenance tend to encounter more frequent and serious problems. Although some car makers suggest oil change services every 5,000 to 25,000 miles, I recommend a 3,000-mile oil change schedule for the Honda Odyssey, regardless of the manufacturer’s guidance. This approach is crucial for sustaining optimal performance and extending the Honda’s life. Regular oil changes play a vital role in reducing engine wear and can improve fuel efficiency by up to 2%. They also help in keeping the engine clean and preventing the build-up of harmful deposits that could shorten the engine’s lifespan.