Driving off-road, like with the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, can wear out engine oil faster. Dust and dirt can get into the engine, mixing with the oil and reducing how well it protects your engine.
Running the engine at high speeds or under heavy loads, like towing or off-roading in dusty conditions, can shorten the life of engine oil.
Luckily, Jeep’s Oil Life monitoring system alerts you when it’s time for an oil change, even if it’s earlier than usual. If the oil needs changing, you’ll see a “Change Oil” message on your dashboard each time you start the vehicle, along with a chime. This alert will stay on until the system is reset.
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How to Reset the Oil Life in a Jeep with the Engine On
Starting with 2017, Jeep’s owner manuals include DIY procedures, so you can handle this simple task yourself without visiting the dealership or a repair shop.
Step 1: Turn the vehicle on
To reset the Oil Life on Jeep’s Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer, turn on the accessories (without starting the engine). Press the start button with your foot off the brake, putting the vehicle in On/Run mode.
Step 2: Access the Oil Life menu
Once the Jeep is running, the main menu on the display shows various options. Use the arrow buttons on the steering wheel to navigate to “Vehicle Info.” Select it and then find the “Oil Life” option.
Step 3: Hold to reset
To reset the Oil Life, press and hold the OK button. After resetting, the gauge will show 100% again.
The Oil Life Reset Option for Other Jeeps
To reset the Oil Life monitor on the Jeep Compass, Renegade, or Cherokee, follow a similar but distinct process.
To reset the oil change reminder, turn on the vehicle but keep the engine off. Press the accelerator pedal fully three times within 10 seconds before turning off the vehicle. You’ll know it’s worked if the “Oil Change Required” message goes away the next time you start the vehicle.
You can also reset the Oil Life monitor on the Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer using this method.