How to Reset the Maintenance Light on a Hyundai Elantra (All Years)
You just finished changing your Elantra’s oil, stepped back to admire your handiwork, and then you see it—that little wrench icon or “Service Required” message still glowing on the dashboard like a stubborn reminder of work you already did. So, how do you make it disappear?
If this scene feels familiar, you’re in good company. Every Hyundai Elantra owner eventually faces this minor annoyance. The maintenance light is a helpful nudge when it’s time for service, but it becomes a nuisance once the work is done. The good news? Resetting it is almost always a simple DIY task that takes about 60 seconds. Let’s walk through the methods for every generation, from the 2000s models to the latest 2026 versions, so you can clear that light and get on with your day.
TL;DR: Resetting the maintenance light on a Hyundai Elantra is a straightforward process that varies slightly by model year. For most 2011+ models, turn the ignition to ON (engine off), use the steering wheel buttons to navigate to the “Service Interval” menu, select “Reset,” and confirm . Older models (pre-2011) often use a physical “RESET” or “TRIP” button on the dashboard—hold it while turning the key to ON . For 2021+ models with infotainment screens, you might find the reset option in “Vehicle Settings” . If the light blinks and stays on after reset, it usually means the system needs a professional diagnostic tool . The maintenance light is just a reminder, not a warning light—green means normal, yellow suggests attention, and red indicates an immediate issue .
Key Takeaways
- Know Your Generation: Fourth-gen (2007-2010) uses physical dashboard buttons. Fifth-gen and newer (2011+) use steering wheel controls and menu navigation .
- Ignition Must Be ON: For almost all reset methods, the ignition needs to be in the “ON” position (dashboard lights up) but the engine should not be running .
- The “Trip” Button Trick: On many older Elantras, the trip odometer reset button doubles as the maintenance light reset button—hold it while turning the key .
- Infotainment Reset: Some newer models allow reset through the touchscreen under “Vehicle Settings” or “Maintenance” menus .
- Safety First: Never attempt to reset the maintenance light while driving. Always park the vehicle, engage the parking brake, and ensure you’re in a safe location before starting the procedure.
- Light Won’t Reset? If DIY methods fail, a mechanic can reset it with a professional OBD-II scanner—this might also reveal underlying issues the light was trying to signal .
Understanding Your Elantra’s Maintenance Light
Before we dive into reset procedures, let’s clarify what that light actually means—and what it doesn’t mean.
The maintenance light (sometimes called “Service Required” or shown as a wrench icon) is simply a mileage-based reminder programmed into your Elantra’s computer. It typically illuminates at 7,500-mile or 15,000-mile intervals to remind you that routine service is due . It is not the same as a check engine light or a warning light indicating mechanical failure.
Here’s an important distinction from one mechanic: “A red light is a warning light, indicating a possible malfunction—do not drive under these conditions. A yellow light is an indicator light, suggesting a possible partial malfunction—check the system promptly. A green light indicates normal operation” . The maintenance light is typically yellow or green, meaning it’s informational, not an emergency.
Common reasons the light appears include:
- Scheduled maintenance due (oil change, tire rotation)
- Oil change reminder based on driving conditions
- Post-service oversight (mechanic forgot to reset it)
Reset Methods by Model Year and Generation
Hyundai Elantra models have used several different reset procedures over the years. Find your generation and follow the appropriate steps.
Fourth Generation (2007-2010) — Physical Button Method
These older Elantras typically use a physical button on the dashboard or instrument cluster to reset the maintenance light. There are a few variations, so try these in order:
Method A: The “Clock” Button Technique
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position (engine off) .
- Locate a button resembling a clock on the left side of the dashboard—this is the maintenance light reset button .
- Press and hold this button, then press the ignition switch (or turn the key to ON) while holding it .
- Wait for the maintenance light on the dashboard to start flashing, then release the button .
- Press the left-side dashboard button again until the maintenance light turns off completely .
Method B: The Trip Button Technique
- Ensure the engine is off and the key is removed .
- Locate the trip reset button on the dashboard in front of the steering wheel (labeled TRIP or RESET) .
- Press and hold this button, then turn the key to the ON position (dashboard lights up, engine off) .
- Keep holding the button for 10-15 seconds until the maintenance light flashes a few times and disappears .
- Release the button—the reset is complete .
Method C: The “SET” Button Method
- Turn the ignition switch OFF .
- While pressing the clock adjustment button “SET,” turn the ignition switch to ON .
- Release the “SET” button, then press it once more .
- Turn the ignition OFF, then ON again to verify the light has reset .
Fifth and Sixth Generations (2011-2020) — Steering Wheel Controls
For most 2011 through 2020 Elantras, the reset process uses the steering wheel buttons to navigate menus in the instrument cluster.
Method for 2011-2016 Models:
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine not running) .
- Use the steering wheel control buttons to navigate through the instrument cluster menu until you find the “Service Required” or “Maintenance” page .
- Select the “Reset” option to set the maintenance mileage to zero .
- Confirm the reset by pressing “OK” or “Yes” when prompted .
- Turn off the ignition to complete the reset .
Method for 2017-2020 Models:
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position .
- Navigate through the instrument cluster menu using steering wheel buttons to “User Settings” .
- Scroll to “Service Interval” and press “OK” .
- Select “Reset” and confirm by pressing “Yes” .
- The system will clear the light and begin tracking from the current mileage .
Seventh Generation (2021-2026) — Digital Cluster and Infotainment
The newest Elantras feature more advanced digital instrument clusters and infotainment systems, offering multiple reset paths.
Instrument Cluster Method:
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off) .
- Locate the button under the instrument cluster designed to access the maintenance menu .
- Press and hold this button until the service menu appears on the display .
- Use the same button to scroll to the option that allows resetting the service reminder .
- Press the button again to confirm the reset .
- Turn the ignition off and on again to verify the light is gone .
Infotainment Screen Method (if available):
- Turn the ignition to the ON position .
- Access the “Settings” or “Vehicle Settings” menu through your touchscreen interface .
- Look for a “Service” or “Maintenance” section .
- Select “Reset Service Interval” and follow any on-screen prompts .
Note: This method isn’t available on all models, so the instrument cluster method remains the most reliable .
Visualizing Reset Methods by Generation
This chart helps you quickly identify which reset method applies to your Elantra based on its model year.
Hyundai Elantra Maintenance Light Reset Methods by Generation
This chart shows the primary reset method for each Elantra generation. Physical buttons dominate older models, while newer generations rely on steering wheel controls and digital menus.
*Method complexity increases with newer generations, but all are DIY-friendly with the right instructions.
Why Won’t My Maintenance Light Reset?
Sometimes the DIY methods don’t work. Here’s what might be happening and what to do about it.
Common Reset Failures
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Light blinks but stays on | System detected an actual issue, not just mileage | Have the vehicle scanned with a professional OBD-II scanner |
| No response to button presses | Wrong button or procedure for your specific year | Consult your owner’s manual—variations exist even within generations |
| Light returns immediately after reset | Maintenance interval not actually completed, or sensor issue | Verify required service was performed; check for other warning lights |
| Cannot find menu option | Some base models lack menu-based reset | Try physical button method or dealer visit |
When Professional Help Is Needed
If your DIY attempts fail, it might be time to call in reinforcements. Here’s when to seek professional help:
- Persistent Light After Multiple Attempts: If you’ve tried the correct procedure several times and the light remains, there may be an underlying issue the system is detecting .
- Blinking or Flashing Light: A flashing maintenance light can indicate a system malfunction rather than a simple reminder .
- Accompanied by Other Warning Lights: If the maintenance light appears alongside check engine or other warning indicators, professional diagnosis is warranted.
- Model Requires Specialized Tools: Some Hyundai models—particularly certain years—require proprietary diagnostic equipment for reset .
Dealership technicians have access to factory diagnostic tools that can communicate directly with your Elantra’s computer systems. They can identify any underlying mechanical problems that may have triggered the light and perform resets according to manufacturer standards .
Preventing Future Maintenance Light Headaches
Once you’ve successfully reset the light, here’s how to keep things running smoothly.
Stay on Schedule
The maintenance light is your friend, not your enemy. Regular maintenance according to Hyundai’s recommended schedule extends your Elantra’s lifespan and prevents unexpected breakdowns . Keep track of:
- Oil changes (typically every 5,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type)
- Tire rotations and pressure checks
- Fluid inspections and replacements
- Filter changes
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Hyundai’s Blue Link App: If your Elantra is equipped with Blue Link, the app can send customized maintenance reminders based on your exact vehicle data and driving patterns .
Third-Party Apps: Apps like Fuelly, GasBuddy, and Car Maintenance Reminder offer user-friendly interfaces to track service intervals based on your car’s make, model, and mileage .
Calendar Reminders: Set recurring reminders on your smartphone for annual services that aren’t mileage-based .
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of all maintenance performed. This creates a reliable history that helps you stay on track with required services and adds value when it’s time to sell your vehicle .
FAQ: Your Elantra Maintenance Light Questions Answered
Q: What’s the difference between the maintenance light and the check engine light?
A: The maintenance light (wrench icon or “Service Required”) is a mileage-based reminder for routine service like oil changes. The check engine light indicates a potential mechanical or emissions problem that requires diagnostic attention .
Q: How often does the maintenance light come on?
A: Typically every 7,500 miles or 15,000 miles, depending on your Elantra’s service schedule and how the previous reset was performed .
Q: Can I drive with the maintenance light on?
A: Yes, the maintenance light itself doesn’t indicate an immediate problem—it’s just a reminder. However, you should schedule service soon, and if you notice other symptoms (strange noises, poor performance), investigate further .
Q: Will disconnecting the battery reset the maintenance light?
A: Sometimes, but it’s not recommended. Disconnecting the battery can reset the light temporarily, but it also resets radio presets, clock, and learned engine parameters. The proper menu-based reset is better .
Q: Why did my maintenance light come on right after service?
A: The mechanic likely forgot to reset the indicator. The onboard computer continues tracking mileage from the previous interval until manually reset . Now you know how to do it yourself!
Q: Does resetting the light erase my service history?
A: No, it only clears the current reminder and starts the countdown to the next interval. It doesn’t affect any stored service history in the system.
Q: My 2023 Elantra doesn’t have any buttons—how do I reset it?
A: Newer models with full digital clusters often use steering wheel controls or infotainment menus. Try the “Vehicle Settings” menu on your touchscreen, or consult your owner’s manual for the exact procedure .
Have you reset the maintenance light on your Elantra? What year is your car, and which method worked for you? Drop your experience in the comments—real-world tips help other owners figure out what works. And if you’re staring at a stubborn light right now and nothing seems to work, ask away. I’ll help you troubleshoot.
References:
- Hyundai Elantra Reset Service Required Light – Absolute Auto Repair
- Resetting the Maintenance Light for Hyundai Elantra – BitAuto
- How to reset the maintenance light on a Hyundai Elantra – BitAuto
- Come resettare la spia “Service” di una Hyundai Elantra – ScegliAuto
- How to reset the maintenance light on a Hyundai Elantra – SuspensionParts.net
- Maintenance Light Reset Method – OK.com
- How to Reset the Maintenance Reminder for the Elantra – OK.com
