If you drive a 2018 Jeep Renegade, you may have seen the “Change Oil” light come on your dashboard. This light is a helpful reminder, but sometimes it stays on even after you have changed your oil. Driving with warning lights can be distracting and worrying. Thankfully, you don’t need special tools or a trip to the dealership to reset the change oil light. With a few simple steps, you can turn it off and keep your dashboard clear. This guide will walk you through the process, explain why the light appears, and share tips to avoid common mistakes.
Why Does The Change Oil Light Come On?
The change oil light is part of the Jeep’s maintenance reminder system. It uses data from your engine, such as mileage and driving conditions, to decide when oil changes are needed. For the 2018 Renegade, this usually happens every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your driving style.
Sometimes, the light stays on after changing the oil. This happens because the car’s computer does not know you have completed the service unless you reset it manually.
Ignoring this light after an oil change can lead to confusion about your next service date.
How To Turn Off Change Oil Light On 2018 Jeep Renegade
Resetting the oil light is a simple process that most drivers can do in under five minutes. Here’s how:
- Turn the ignition to ON (do not start the engine). Press the start button without your foot on the brake. The dashboard lights should come on, but the engine remains off.
- Fully press the gas pedal three times within 10 seconds. Make sure you press the pedal all the way down and release it each time.
- Turn the ignition to OFF. Wait a few seconds.
- Restart your Jeep to check if the light has turned off. If not, repeat the steps.
Key Tips For Success
- Press the gas pedal quickly and smoothly. Taking too long may cause the reset to fail.
- Make sure your foot is off the brake when you turn the ignition to ON.
- If the light does not reset after several tries, check that the oil change was completed correctly and that the oil level is proper.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Many owners find that the reset does not work the first time. Here’s why:
- Not pressing the pedal fully: The system requires the pedal to be pressed all the way down.
- Timing errors: All three presses must happen within 10 seconds.
- Starting the engine accidentally: Only turn the ignition to ON, not START.
If you keep having trouble, check your car’s manual for specific instructions or visit a trusted mechanic.
When Should You Reset The Light?
Only reset the oil light after an oil change. Resetting it without changing the oil can lead to engine damage. The system will think your oil is fresh, even if it is old and dirty.
How Often Should You Change The Oil?
For a 2018 Jeep Renegade, oil changes are usually recommended every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. However, if you do a lot of city driving or drive in hot weather, you may need to change your oil more often. Always use the oil type and viscosity recommended by Jeep.
Understanding The Change Oil Light Vs. Check Engine Light
These two dashboard lights have different meanings. The change oil light is a reminder for routine maintenance. The check engine light signals a problem with your engine or emissions system.
| Light Name | Color | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Change Oil Light | Amber/Yellow | Oil change needed soon |
| Check Engine Light | Amber/Yellow | Engine or emissions problem |
If both lights come on, address the check engine light first, as it may signal a more serious problem.
Dealer Vs. Diy Oil Light Reset
You do not need to visit a dealer for an oil light reset. The DIY method is quick and free.
However, if the light stays on after several attempts, or if you are not sure you performed the oil change correctly, a professional mechanic can help.
| Method | Cost | Time Needed | Special Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Reset | $0 | 2-5 minutes | No |
| Dealer Reset | $20-$50 (service fee) | 30-60 minutes (including wait) | No |
Non-obvious Insights Drivers Often Miss
- Battery voltage matters: If your battery is weak or has been disconnected, the system may not reset properly. Make sure your battery is in good condition.
- Oil type can affect reminders: Using the wrong oil type or skipping the oil filter change can cause the light to come back sooner than expected.
Additional Maintenance Reminders
Besides the oil change light, your Jeep Renegade uses other reminders for tire rotation, brakes, and fluids. Keeping up with these helps your car last longer and keeps you safe.
When To Get Professional Help
If your change oil light stays on after several reset attempts, or if you notice oil leaks, smoke, or unusual engine noise, visit a mechanic. This could signal a larger problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Oil Change Was Done Correctly?
Check the oil level with the dipstick and make sure the oil is clean. The oil filter should also be replaced. If unsure, ask the shop for details about the service performed.
Can I Drive With The Change Oil Light On?
You can drive for a short time, but do not ignore the light for long. It is a reminder that maintenance is due. Delaying oil changes can damage your engine.
What If The Light Comes Back After Resetting?
If the light returns soon after resetting, check for leaks, oil quality, and make sure you used the correct oil type. If the problem continues, a mechanic can run a diagnostic.
Is It Safe To Reset The Light Before Changing The Oil?
No, always change the oil before resetting the light. Resetting without an oil change can harm your engine and void your warranty.
Where Can I Find More Information?
For more details, see the 2018 Jeep Renegade owner’s manual or visit Jeep’s official site.
Turning off the change oil light on your 2018 Jeep Renegade is a quick and easy task once you know the correct steps. By following this guide, you can keep your dashboard clear, stay on top of maintenance, and avoid unnecessary trips to the dealership.
Remember, regular oil changes are one of the best ways to protect your engine and keep your Jeep running smoothly for years to come.
