How to reset jeep cherokee oil life

You get your 2016 Jeep Cherokee back from the garage for an oil change, and the dash is still telling you it is time to have it done.

Is there a way to turn off that annoying light? Is there a reason why it is still on? You can reset it using just a few quick steps.

What do I do to reset the oil light on the 2016 Jeep Cherokee? 

Put your key into the ignition and turn it to the Run/On position. Do not turn the key all the way over to start the engine. With the key in the Run position, completely pump the gas pedal three times in about 10 seconds. The oil light should go out. The counter is reset. 

Now you are ready to roll! But you might be wondering why that light didn’t shut off by itself after you changed the oil and filter. Is there something wrong? Keep reading for complete FAQ on your oil life monitor and how it works.

How Does the Oil Life Counter Work in the 2016 Jeep Cherokee?

Some people actually call the oil life counter or monitor a sensor, which is misleading. There is no sensor in the engine compartment of the Jeep Cherokee that tests the viscosity of the oil.

Instead, the onboard computer records how hard the engine is working, how long it idles, and how many miles it can travel. Using a mathematical equation, it determines at which point the oil will no longer be able to provide the proper lubrication for moving parts.

When it reaches 10% of oil life left, the driver information center illuminates a Change Oil message each time that you start the car. When the oil is changed, the counter must be reset, so the computer can begin a new computation.

If you drive through severe road conditions such as dust, desert or heavy pollution, you will not want to wait for the oil life monitor to tell you it is time for a change. Instead, schedule your next oil and filter change every 4,000 miles.

How Do I Reset the Counter with the Passive Enter N’ Go System?

A few of the higher trim levels on the 2016 Jeep Cherokeeinclude the Enter N’ Go system that does not need a key to turn the ignition. If this is like your car, follow these steps to reset the oil life monitor for your Cherokee Limited.

• Sit down in the driver’s seat with your key fob in your pocket.
• Press the Start button long enough for it to highlight the Run/On display, but do not actually start the engine.
• Use the DOWN arrow on your steering wheel to scroll through the menu of your vehicle information center until you reach Vehicle Info.
• Scroll right to reach the Oil Life screen.
• Hold down the OK button to reset.
• The display should read 100% when it is reset.
• Exit out of the Vehicle Info system.

Learn more about how to care for your 2016 Jeep Cherokee by downloading your owner’s manual.

I Did not Change the Oil. Can I Reset the Oil Counter Anyway?

Nothing will stop you from resetting the oil life counter any time that you want. However, if you wait for your SUV to remind you that it is time for an oil change, you could end up causing some serious harm to your engine. It really is best to only reset the counter immediately after you have had the oil and oil filter changed.

Why Does The 2016 Jeep Cherokee Need an Oil Change Every 7,500 Miles?

Even today’s synthetic oils will eventually degrade and break down, especially in the extremely hot environment of your engine. If you leave old oil in the engine, it can lead to scratches in the cylinders and valves. These in turn can become a leak, which in severe cases will cause the engine to seize.

When that happens, you need a new engine.

The recommended 7,500-mile maintenance schedule for oil changes on your Jeep Cherokee is simply an average based on oil performance and common driving habits. You can drive up to 10,000 miles or 12 months between changes, but that may be harming your engine. The oil change reminder is the best way to keep your engine running for years in the future.

What Happens if I Do not Reset the Oil Life Monitor?

Your 2016 Jeep Cherokee will keep running just fine if you have changed the oil but forgot to reset the oil light. The computer will not stop the car from running, but it also will never take a break from telling you about your oil change.

The oil monitor is a valuable, convenient reminder. If it has been less than 1,000 miles since the oil change, go ahead and reset! Otherwise, you may want to wait until you get the oil done at the 3,500-mile mark.

How Do I Know if the Jeep Cherokee I Want to Buy Had its Oil Changes Done on Time?

Before you make an offer on that Jeep Cherokee that is on the pre-owned lot downtown, make sure that it has been properly maintained. Enter the VIN of the SUV at VehicleHistory.comand get a complete background report on your potential ride.