Oil Change Required
Ford Vehicle
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Oil Change Required is a maintenance reminder — the oil life monitor has counted down to 0%. Get an oil change, then reset the monitor. This is not an error — it is a scheduled maintenance reminder.
Affected Models
- Ford F-150
- Ford Explorer
- Ford Escape
- Ford Edge
- Ford Fusion
- Ford Bronco
- Ford Mustang
Common Causes
- Oil life monitor reached 0% based on driving conditions
- Oil change was done but the monitor was not reset
- Reset procedure not completed fully
How to Fix It
-
Get an oil change if you have not had one recently.
Ford recommends oil changes every 7,500-10,000 miles with synthetic oil. The oil life monitor adjusts based on your driving habits.
-
Reset the oil life monitor after the oil change.
For most Fords (2012+): 1. Turn ignition to ON (do not start). 2. Press gas pedal 3 times within 10 seconds. 3. The message should clear.
-
For Fords with touchscreen: Settings > Vehicle > Oil Life Reset.
Newer Fords with SYNC allow resetting through the infotainment menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ford use synthetic oil?
Most modern Fords use full synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-20 oil. Check your owner's manual for the exact specification.
Can I drive past the Oil Change Required alert?
For a short time, yes. But do not delay too long — old oil loses its protective properties. Get the change done within 500 miles of the alert.