Is your Lexus dashboard flashing that pesky “Maintenance Required” reminder? Don’t worry – you can easily reset it yourself after completing the necessary service. Whether you drive a classic ES or the latest RX model, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to clear that indicator and get back on the road worry-free.
What Does the Lexus Maintenance Required Light Mean?
The “Maintenance Required” light in your Lexus isn’t actually signaling a problem – it’s simply a scheduled reminder system. This light typically illuminates every 5,000 miles to remind you that basic maintenance (usually an oil change) is due.
It’s different from the more serious “Check Engine” light, which indicates potential mechanical issues. The maintenance reminder is just Lexus’s way of helping you keep track of routine service intervals.
How to Reset Maintenance Light on Older Lexus Models (Pre-2016)
If you own a Lexus manufactured before 2016 (like 2008-2015 IS models, 2010-2015 RX 350s, or similar), you’ll use the odometer/trip meter button method:
- Make sure your vehicle is parked safely
- Turn the ignition to position II (ON position) without starting the engine
- Check that your odometer is displaying the “ODO” reading (not trip A or B)
- Turn the ignition OFF completely
- Press and hold the trip meter reset button (usually labeled “ODO/TRIP”)
- While holding the button, turn the ignition back to position II (ON)
- Continue holding the button until the maintenance light starts blinking and eventually disappears (about 5-10 seconds)
- Release the button when the light goes out
This sequence works consistently across most pre-2016 Lexus vehicles, including IS 250/350 models and earlier RX crossovers.
How to Reset Maintenance Light on Newer Lexus Models (2016-Present)
For newer Lexus vehicles (2016 and beyond), the process uses the multi-information display system instead:
- Press the Engine Start/Stop button twice without pressing the brake pedal (puts car in accessory mode)
- Use the steering wheel controls to navigate through the multi-information display
- Find the “Settings” or “Gear” icon menu
- Select “Vehicle Settings” (sometimes called “Vehicle Customize”)
- Navigate to “Scheduled Maintenance” or “Maintenance Reset”
- Select “Yes” or “Reset” to confirm
- Verify the maintenance message has disappeared
This digital menu method applies to newer Lexus models including 2016+ RX 350, UX models, and the new GX550.
Model-Specific Reset Instructions
For Lexus ES Models
The ES lineup typically follows the standard reset procedures, but with slight variations:
- ES 350 (2007-2012): Use the odometer button method while ensuring the trip display shows “ODO” before beginning
- ES 350/300h (2013-2018): Press and hold trip meter reset while turning ignition on; continue holding until the maintenance light flashes and disappears
- ES 350/300h (2019+): Navigate through the multi-information display using steering wheel controls to find “Vehicle Settings” → “Scheduled Maintenance” → “Reset”
For Lexus RX Models
The RX series has been a bestseller for Lexus and follows these reset patterns:
- RX 350/450h (2010-2015): Use the odometer button method with the display showing either ODO or Trip A
- RX 350/450h (2016-2023): Access the multi-information display settings by pressing the menu button on the steering wheel, then navigate to Vehicle Settings → Scheduled Maintenance → Reset
For Lexus IS Models
The sporty IS lineup requires these specific steps:
- IS 250/350/F (2006-2013): Turn ignition to ON position, switch to ODO display, turn ignition OFF, press and hold trip meter button while turning ignition back ON until light resets
- IS 250/350/200t (2014-2020): Similar to older models but may require holding the button longer (up to 10 seconds) until dashes appear and then zeros
For Lexus GX/LX SUVs
Lexus’s larger SUVs have their own reset procedures:
- GX 460 (2010-2022): Use the standard odometer button method from the older model section
- GX 550 (2024+): Use the new multi-information display method through Vehicle Settings menu
- LX Models: Follow similar procedures but consult your owner’s manual for exact button locations, as dashboard layouts differ slightly
Common Reset Issues and Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble resetting your maintenance light, try these troubleshooting steps:
Light Won’t Reset Using Standard Methods
- Double-check your sequence: Make sure you’re following the steps in the exact order
- Confirm ignition position: Many failed resets happen because the ignition isn’t in the correct position
- Battery issues: A weak battery might prevent electronic systems from resetting properly
- Try alternative button: Some models have the reset button on either the instrument panel or steering wheel controls
Digital Menu Not Showing Maintenance Reset Option
If your newer Lexus doesn’t show the maintenance reset option in the menu:
- Make sure you’re in the “Vehicle Settings” section, not the general settings
- Check if you need to press and hold the “OK” or “Enter” button on your steering wheel
- Some models require navigating to a separate “Information” menu first
- If all else fails, consult your owner’s manual for model-specific menu navigation
Why You Should Only Reset After Completing Maintenance
It’s crucial to only reset your maintenance light after actually completing the required service. The Lexus maintenance reminder system is designed to help you maintain your vehicle at appropriate intervals for optimal performance and longevity.
Resetting without performing maintenance can lead to:
- Engine oil degradation beyond safe limits
- Reduced fuel economy
- Premature engine wear
- Potential voiding of warranty coverage
- Decreased vehicle resale value
A Lexus typically requires basic maintenance every 5,000 miles, with more comprehensive service at 10,000-mile intervals. The maintenance required light helps you track these important service milestones.
Using OBD-II Scanners as an Alternative Reset Method
If the manual reset methods aren’t working, you can use an OBD-II scanner as an alternative:
- Locate your vehicle’s OBD-II port (usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side)
- Connect a compatible OBD-II scanner
- Turn the ignition to ON position
- Navigate through the scanner menu to find “Maintenance Reset” or similar option
- Select your vehicle make and model when prompted
- Choose the “Reset Oil Life” or “Reset Maintenance” option
- Follow the scanner’s prompts to complete the reset
This method works on many Lexus models, but not all scanners can reset maintenance reminders (as opposed to just clearing check engine lights), so verify your scanner has this capability.
Maintenance Schedule to Prevent Future Lights
To avoid unexpected maintenance lights, follow this basic Lexus maintenance schedule:
| Mileage | Recommended Service |
|---|---|
| 5,000 | Oil change, tire rotation, fluid checks |
| 10,000 | Cabin and engine air filter inspection, brake inspection |
| 15,000 | Oil change, tire rotation, fluid checks, brake inspection |
| 30,000 | More comprehensive inspection including transmission fluid |
| 60,000 | Major service including timing belt inspection on applicable models |
Staying ahead of these maintenance intervals ensures your Lexus remains in top condition, potentially avoiding more serious issues down the road.
What About Other Dashboard Warning Lights?
It’s important to distinguish between the “Maintenance Required” light and other warning indicators:
- Maintenance Required: Yellow light indicating scheduled service interval
- Check Engine Light: Orange/amber light indicating potential engine issues requiring diagnostic
- VSC/Traction Control: Indicates stability control system engagement or malfunction
- Brake Warning Light: Red warning for brake system issues, parking brake engagement, or low fluid
Only the maintenance required light can be reset using the methods described in this article. For other warning lights, you’ll need to address the underlying issue and possibly use an OBD-II scanner to clear the code.
Digital Maintenance Tracking in Newer Models
The newest Lexus models (2020+) feature enhanced digital maintenance tracking systems that provide:
- Detailed maintenance history in the vehicle’s infotainment system
- Specific notifications about which maintenance items are due
- Ability to schedule service directly through the Lexus app
- More personalized maintenance schedules based on driving habits
These advanced systems still use the same reset procedures through the multi-information display, but provide much more detailed information about your vehicle’s maintenance needs.
The Bottom Line on Lexus Maintenance Reset
Resetting your Lexus maintenance required light is a simple DIY task that takes just a minute or two after you’ve completed the necessary service. The exact method varies slightly by model year and vehicle type, but generally falls into one of two categories:
- The odometer button method for pre-2016 models
- The multi-information display method for 2016+ models
By following the specific steps for your vehicle, you can easily clear that reminder and start fresh until your next service interval. Just remember – only reset after actually performing the required maintenance to keep your Lexus running smoothly for years to come.
