What Does Wrench Light Mean on Honda? How to Reset it?

Ever been behind the wheel of your trusty Honda and spotted the wrench light blinking on your dashboard?

Wondering what it’s trying to tell you?

We’ve all been there.

In this article, I’ll unravel the meaning of the wrench light in Honda vehicles and provide guidance on how to reset it.

So, let’s dive in!

What Does a Wrench Light Mean on Honda?

In Honda vehicles, the wrench light can serve as a maintenance reminder, signaling that it’s time for scheduled maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, or other routine tasks.

However, the specific meaning of warning lights can vary between Honda models, so consulting your owner’s manual is crucial for understanding their precise significance.

In some newer Honda models, the maintenance minder system uses maintenance codes to represent different due maintenance tasks instead of just displaying a generic wrench light.

These codes typically consist of a letter followed by a number.

You can find detailed information about the maintenance tasks associated with each code in your Honda’s owner’s manual or in the table below.

CODE	Maintenance Main Items
A	● Replace engine oil
B	● Replace engine oil and oil filter ● Inspect front and rear brakes ● Inspect these items: - Tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and boots - Suspension components - Driveshaft boots - Brake hoses and lines (including ABS/VSA) - All fluid levels and condition of fluids - Exhaust system - Fuel lines and connections

CODE	Maintenance Sub Items
1	● Rotate tires
2	● Replace air cleaner element ● Replace dust and pollen filter ● Inspect drive belt
3	● Replace transmission fluid
4	● Replace spark plugs ● Inspect valve clearance
5	● Replace engine coolant
6	● Replace rear differential fluid
7	● Replace brake fluid

For example, the maintenance code A1 means that it’s time for your Honda’s oil change and tire rotation.

Additionally, many modern Honda models include an oil life percentage, which precisely measures your engine oil’s condition. It displays a percentage representing the remaining useful life of the oil.

100%: Fresh, effective engine oil.
15%: Oil change needed soon.
5%: Oil change is due.
0%: Overdue for an oil change.

Remember to schedule an oil change when it reaches 15% or lower to maintain your engine’s performance and longevity.

Can I Drive with the Wrench Light on Honda?

Yes, you can generally continue to drive your Honda for a short period of time when the wrench light is illuminated.

However, it is important to address the maintenance or repair needs indicated by the wrench light as soon as possible. Ignoring the warning and continuing to drive without addressing the underlying issue could potentially lead to further damage or safety concerns.

Therefore, it is advisable to schedule the necessary maintenance or seek professional assistance promptly to prevent any potential problems.

How to Reset the Wrench Light on Honda

The exact procedure may vary depending on your Honda’s model and year, so it’s essential to consult your owner’s manual for precise instructions.

However, I can provide you with a general outline of the steps that are often used:

Turn the ignition on: Ensure that the ignition is in the “On” position without starting the engine.
Press and hold the reset button: Press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds until the maintenance code and oil life percentage start blinking.
Release and press the reset button again: Release, then hold it down for five seconds. This action should reset the maintenance codes or oil life percentage to 100%.
Start the engine: Turn off the ignition, and then start the engine to see if the wrench light has been reset. It should no longer be illuminated if you’ve successfully reset it.

Keep in mind that this procedure is a general guideline and may not apply to all Honda models. If you’re unsure or have difficulty resetting the wrench light, it’s advisable to consult your owner’s manual or contact your local Honda dealership or a qualified mechanic for assistance.

Additionally, ensure that you’ve addressed any underlying maintenance issues or concerns before resetting the light to maintain your vehicle’s performance and safety.

What’s Next?

In conclusion, the wrench light in Honda vehicles serves as a maintenance reminder for scheduled tasks. Consulting the owner’s manual is crucial as the specific tasks can vary among models.

By understanding its messages and promptly addressing them, you can ensure your Honda remains a reliable companion on the road.

Regular maintenance not only extends your car’s lifespan but also contributes to safer and more efficient driving.

If you encounter other lights on your Honda dashboard, you can utilize my Dash Lights lookup to understand what that light means. Alternatively, using a suitable code reader for your Honda can help you pinpoint the exact problem when the light illuminates.