Ever seen that annoying “Oil Change Required” message pop up on your Dodge Dart’s dash? You’ve changed the oil but the light won’t go away. Don’t worry – resetting your Dodge Dart’s oil change indicator is something you can handle yourself in just a few minutes, saving you a trip to the dealership.
Why Your Dodge Dart’s Oil Change Light Needs Resetting
When your Dodge Dart’s oil change light illuminates, it’s not actually measuring your oil quality. Instead, it’s using an algorithm that tracks your driving habits, engine temperature, and mileage to estimate when maintenance is needed.
After changing your oil, the system needs to be manually reset to start its calculations fresh. If you don’t reset it, you’ll keep getting those pesky reminders even with fresh oil!
Understanding Your Dodge Dart’s Oil Monitoring System
The Dodge Dart’s oil monitoring system tracks several factors to determine when an oil change is needed:
- Engine running conditions
- Temperature cycles
- Driving habits (short trips vs. highway driving)
- Engine load and RPM patterns
When the system calculates your oil has reached the end of its useful life, it triggers the “Oil Change Required” message on your instrument cluster along with a warning chime.
How to Reset Oil Change Light on Different Dodge Dart Models
The reset method varies slightly depending on your Dart’s model year and whether you have a basic instrument cluster or the upgraded TFT display. I’ll cover all the methods below.
Method 1: Accelerator Pedal Reset (Works for Most 2013-2016 Models)
This is the most universal method that works on virtually all Dodge Dart models:
- Turn the ignition to RUN position (don’t start the engine)
- Slowly press the accelerator pedal to the floor three times within 10 seconds
- Turn the ignition off
- Start the engine to verify the message is gone
Pro tip: The timing matters! Press too quickly and it won’t register.
Method 2: For Darts with Digital Displays (2014-2016)
If your Dart has a digital display in the instrument cluster:
- Turn the ignition to RUN (don’t start the engine)
- Use the steering wheel RIGHT arrow to access “Vehicle Info” menu
- Scroll to “Oil Life” using UP/DOWN arrows
- Press and hold the OK or RIGHT arrow button until oil life resets to 100%
This method is particularly common on 2015 and 2016 Dodge Dart models with the upgraded EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center).
Troubleshooting: When Your Dodge Dart Oil Reset Fails
Sometimes the reset procedure doesn’t take. Here are the most common issues and fixes:
Common Reset Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Light remains on | Make sure you’re in RUN position, not START |
| Reset didn’t work | Press accelerator pedal more slowly and evenly |
| Message reappears | Complete the reset sequence before starting engine |
| System glitch | Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset all systems |
Specific Fixes by Model Year
| Model Year | Common Issue | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Accelerator timing too fast | Count “one-one-thousand” between presses |
| 2014-15 | Wrong menu selection | Ensure you’re in “Vehicle Info” not “Vehicle Settings” |
| 2016 | Button confusion | Use RIGHT arrow (not OK) for final reset hold |
Model-Specific Reset Instructions for Dodge Darts
2013 Dodge Dart Oil Reset
The 2013 Dart primarily uses the accelerator pedal method:
- Turn key to RUN position (dashboard lights on, engine off)
- Press accelerator pedal slowly to floor and release 3 times within 10 seconds
- Turn ignition off completely
- Restart to verify reset
2014 Dodge Dart Oil Reset
The 2014 model introduced two different methods depending on your trim level:
Base Models:
- Use the accelerator pedal method (same as 2013)
Models with Digital Display:
- Turn to RUN position
- Navigate to “Vehicle Info” using steering wheel controls
- Select “Oil Life” from menu
- Press and hold the steering wheel RIGHT arrow until reset completes
2015-2016 Dodge Dart Oil Reset
Both 2015 and 2016 Dodge Dart models offer the same two reset options:
Method 1 (All Models):
- Use the accelerator pedal method
Method 2 (With EVIC Display):
- Turn to RUN position
- Navigate to “Vehicle Info” using arrows
- Select “Oil Life”
- Press and hold RIGHT arrow until percentage shows 100%
When Should You Change Your Dodge Dart’s Oil?
Despite having an oil monitoring system, Dodge recommends:
- Change oil every 8,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) under normal conditions
- Change every 4,000 miles if you do a lot of:
- Short trips (less than 10 miles)
- Stop-and-go driving
- Extreme temperatures
- Towing
Always use the manufacturer-recommended oil type:
- 2013-2014: 5W-20 synthetic blend
- 2015-2016: 5W-30 synthetic blend
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure for Dodge Dart
While this guide focuses on resetting the light, here’s a quick reference for changing your Dart’s oil:
- Warm up engine for 5 minutes
- Lift and secure vehicle safely
- Remove oil drain plug (15mm socket)
- Drain old oil completely
- Replace drain plug (tighten to 20 ft-lbs)
- Remove old oil filter (located on passenger side of engine)
- Lubricate new filter gasket with fresh oil
- Install new filter (hand-tight plus 1/4 turn)
- Add 4.5 quarts of correct oil through fill cap
- Start engine and check for leaks
- Reset oil change light using methods above
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Your Dodge Dart
Regular oil changes keep your Dart running smoothly. Here are some additional maintenance tips:
- Check oil level every other gas fill-up
- Inspect air filter every 15,000 miles
- Replace spark plugs at 60,000 miles
- Flush cooling system every 100,000 miles
- Replace transmission fluid at 60,000 miles (severe duty) or 100,000 miles (normal)
Why Proper Oil Maintenance Matters for Your Dodge Dart
The Dodge Dart’s engines (1.4L turbo, 2.0L, and 2.4L) have different oil needs, but all benefit from regular maintenance. Proper oil changes:
- Prevent premature engine wear
- Maintain fuel economy
- Reduce harmful emissions
- Prevent overheating
- Extend engine lifespan
The 1.4L turbo engine is particularly sensitive to oil quality and timely changes due to the turbocharger’s additional heat and stress on the oil.
Advanced Reset Techniques for Persistent Problems
If standard reset procedures don’t work, try these advanced methods:
- Battery Reset Method:
- Disconnect negative battery terminal
- Press brake pedal for 30 seconds to drain residual power
- Reconnect battery
- Perform standard reset procedure
- Multiple Ignition Cycle Method:
- Turn key to RUN (not start)
- Perform pedal reset procedure
- Turn key off
- Repeat entire sequence three times
- Start engine on fourth cycle
Understanding Warning Messages on Your Dodge Dart
Your Dart may display several different oil-related messages:
| Message | Meaning | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| “Oil Change Required” | Scheduled maintenance due | Change oil and reset system |
| “Oil Pressure Low” | Critical issue – insufficient oil pressure | Stop driving immediately and check oil level |
| “Check Oil Level” | Oil level sensor detects low oil | Add oil to proper level |
Only the “Oil Change Required” message requires the reset procedure – the others indicate actual problems that need addressing.
Tools Needed to Change Oil and Reset Dodge Dart Oil Light
To perform a complete oil service on your Dodge Dart, you’ll need:
- Oil filter wrench
- Socket set (including 15mm socket)
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Jack and jack stands
- 4.5-5 quarts of correct oil
- New oil filter
- Shop rags
- Torque wrench (optional but recommended)
No special tools are required for the reset procedure itself – just your key and fingers!
Keep Track of Your Dart’s Maintenance Schedule
Create a simple maintenance log to track your oil changes:
| Date | Mileage | Oil Type | Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM/DD/YY | 12,345 | 5W-30 Full Synthetic | Mopar FL400S | Reset with pedal method |
This helps you maintain proper service intervals regardless of whether the oil light has been triggered.
Final Thoughts on Dodge Dart Oil Change Reset
Resetting your Dodge Dart’s oil change light is simple once you know the correct procedure for your specific model. The system is designed to help you maintain proper service intervals, but remember it’s just an estimate based on driving conditions.
By following the reset procedures outlined in this guide, you’ll keep your Dart’s monitoring system accurate and avoid unnecessary warning lights. And remember – the most important part isn’t resetting the light, but actually changing your oil regularly!
