How to Easily Reset Dodge Journey Oil Change Light: Complete Guide

If you drive a Dodge Journey, you know it’s a reliable SUV that blends comfort with performance. But like any vehicle, it needs regular maintenance to keep running smoothly — and that starts with timely oil changes. Here’s something many drivers overlook though: after changing the oil, you must reset the oil change light.

That little dashboard indicator isn’t just a blinking reminder; it’s your car’s way of tracking maintenance intervals. If you forget to reset it, your Dodge Journey’s computer won’t know you’ve already replaced the oil. This can lead to inaccurate alerts, missed maintenance schedules, and even unnecessary stress down the line.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to reset the Dodge Journey oil change light step-by-step — using simple, everyday language. Whether you’re doing it for the first time or you’ve tried before and couldn’t quite get it right, this guide will make it feel effortless.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Oil Change Light

Before jumping into the reset steps, let’s quickly understand what the oil change light really means.

When you see this light on your dashboard, it doesn’t always mean your engine oil level is low. It’s a programmed reminder that tracks mileage and driving conditions to estimate when an oil change is due.

Here’s what happens under the hood:

The engine control module (ECM) monitors how far you’ve driven and how hard the engine’s been working.
When it detects that oil quality might be deteriorating, it triggers the light.
Once you change your oil, the system expects you to manually reset it — so the countdown can start fresh.

If you skip this step, the system will continue to think your oil is dirty, potentially displaying false alerts in the future. Think of it like forgetting to reset your fitness tracker after a new workout routine — it simply won’t give accurate feedback.

Step 1: Start Your Dodge Journey

Let’s start with something simple: turn on your Dodge Journey’s engine.

Let the engine run for about a minute or two. This helps the internal sensors and the computer system initialize properly. While the engine runs, keep an eye on your dashboard lights — they’ll flash briefly as part of the system check.

This step might seem too basic, but it’s crucial. The reset won’t register if your car’s electronics haven’t fully woken up. I’ve seen many people skip this, then wonder why their reset didn’t work. Think of it as giving your vehicle a little time to “wake up” before performing a quick system refresh.

Step 2: Locate the Trip Odometer Button

Once your Journey is running smoothly, find the trip odometer button.

You’ll usually find it near the speedometer, either on the instrument cluster or just below it. In most Dodge models, it’s a small button that toggles between different display modes like mileage, trip distance, or fuel economy.

If you’ve never noticed it before, take a second to look closely — it’s easy to overlook because it blends in with the dashboard. In newer models, this function might even be on the steering wheel controls, labeled as “Trip” or “Info.”

Pro tip: Familiarize yourself with this button now because it’s the main tool you’ll use to reset the light.

Step 3: Turn the Ignition Off

Now, here’s where timing matters. While your Journey is still running, go ahead and turn the ignition off.

Don’t press the brake pedal — that’s important. Just turn the key to the OFF position or press the start/stop button once if you have a push-start model. This allows the system to power down safely without resetting any other dashboard functions.

Many first-timers accidentally hold the brake, which starts another ignition cycle and messes up the process. So, relax your foot — let the car rest for a few seconds.

Think of this as a quick “pause” before you officially tell the system you’ve completed your oil change.

Step 4: Press and Hold the Trip Odometer Button

Now for the key part of the process.

With the ignition still OFF, press and hold the trip odometer button. You can use your finger, a pen tip, or a small tool if it’s recessed. While holding it down, turn your ignition back to the ON position — but again, don’t start the engine.

Keep holding the button for about 10 seconds. Watch the dashboard closely. The oil change light or “maintenance required” indicator should start flashing.

This flashing is your sign that the system recognizes your command. It’s like your vehicle’s way of saying, “Got it, we’re updating the maintenance log.”

Step 5: Release the Button and Confirm the Reset

Once the maintenance light starts flashing, you can release the trip odometer button.

You’ll see the light turn off briefly, then flash again — and that’s your confirmation. In most cases, this means the oil change light reset was successful.

It’s a simple moment, but it feels satisfying — like closing all your tabs after finishing a big task. You’ve officially told your Dodge Journey’s computer that the oil change is complete and it can restart its countdown.

If the light doesn’t go off, don’t panic. It might take a second attempt. Sometimes the system can be finicky depending on how long you held the button or how quickly you turned the ignition.

Step 6: Start the Engine and Double-Check

Now for the final step: start your Dodge Journey’s engine again.

Look at your dashboard carefully — the oil change light should be gone. If it’s still there, repeat the process from Step 1 through Step 6. It usually takes only one or two tries.

Once the light disappears, congratulations — you’ve done it! You just saved yourself a trip to the dealership and maybe $50 in labor fees.

To keep things smooth, jot down the date and mileage of this oil change. That way, you’ll have a manual record even if the system gets reset later for other maintenance.

Why Resetting the Oil Change Light Is So Important

You might wonder — why bother resetting it at all? The car runs fine either way, right?

Well, not exactly. The oil change reminder system is more than a convenience feature. It plays a role in the maintenance tracking of your Dodge Journey.

Here’s why it matters:

Accurate tracking: Your car’s onboard computer logs when the last oil change occurred. Resetting ensures future reminders are based on the correct data.
Avoid confusion: If you skip the reset, the light will stay on, making you think something’s wrong even after maintenance.
Protects engine health: Timely oil changes reduce friction and heat buildup, keeping your engine in top shape.
Supports resale value: A properly maintained car with accurate records tells buyers you’ve cared for it responsibly.

Skipping this step might seem harmless, but it’s like forgetting to update your calendar — sooner or later, you’ll miss something important.

When Should You Change Oil in a Dodge Journey?

Every vehicle has its own rhythm, and so does your Dodge Journey.

In general, you should change the oil every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or about every six months, depending on your driving style and environment. If you do a lot of city driving, frequent idling, or drive in extreme heat or cold, it’s safer to lean toward the lower end of that range.

You can check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s official recommendation — but here’s a simple rule of thumb:

Driving Condition	Suggested Oil Change Interval
Normal driving (mostly highways)	7,500 miles
Heavy traffic or short trips	5,000–6,000 miles
Extreme heat/cold or towing	4,000–5,000 miles

Remember, engine oil is like your car’s bloodstream. It keeps everything lubricated and cool. Neglecting it can cause internal wear, sludge buildup, and eventually expensive repairs.

What Type of Oil Should You Use?

Your Dodge Journey deserves the right kind of oil to perform its best.

Most models work well with synthetic 5W-20 or 5W-30 motor oil, but it’s always best to double-check your owner’s manual. Synthetic oil lasts longer, offers better temperature resistance, and provides superior engine protection — especially if you drive long distances or in varying weather.

If you’re unsure, here’s a quick comparison:

Oil Type	Pros	Cons
Synthetic	Better performance, lasts longer, protects in extreme temperatures	Slightly more expensive
Conventional	Cheaper, works fine for older engines	Needs frequent changes, less protection
Synthetic blend	Good balance between cost and protection	May still degrade faster than full synthetic

Personally, I’ve noticed smoother engine performance and slightly better fuel economy since switching to full synthetic oil. It’s a small investment that pays off with fewer oil changes and less wear on your engine over time.

Common Mistakes When Resetting the Oil Change Light

Even though the process seems simple, many people get tripped up by small details. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when resetting your Dodge Journey oil change light:

Pressing the brake pedal while turning the ignition — this starts the engine and interrupts the process.
Not holding the trip button long enough — it takes around 10 seconds, not 3 or 4.
Skipping the “ON” position — remember, the ignition should be ON but the engine OFF during the reset.
Forgetting to start the engine afterward — always verify the light is gone by restarting the car.

A little patience goes a long way. If it doesn’t work on the first try, don’t get frustrated. The Dodge Journey’s system can be sensitive to timing, but once you’ve done it once, it becomes second nature.

Step 7: Using the Accelerator Pedal Method (Alternative Reset)

For some newer Dodge Journey models, there’s an alternative method to reset the oil change light that doesn’t involve the trip odometer button. This is especially handy if your model year slightly differs from the standard procedure.

Here’s how it works:

Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position without starting the engine.
Fully press the accelerator pedal three times within ten seconds.
Turn the ignition off, then start the engine.

If done correctly, the maintenance light should now be reset. I like this method because it’s quick and avoids any awkward pressing or holding of dashboard buttons. Just be sure to complete the three presses firmly and in a timely sequence — otherwise, the system might not register the reset.

Benefits of Regular Oil Changes

While the light is useful, it’s only a reminder — the real benefit comes from changing your oil regularly. Think of engine oil as the lifeblood of your Dodge Journey. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps your engine run efficiently.

Skipping oil changes can lead to sludge buildup, reduced fuel efficiency, and even costly engine damage. Conversely, a well-maintained oil schedule can:

Extend engine life by reducing wear and tear.
Improve fuel efficiency, saving money at the pump.
Enhance engine performance, giving smoother acceleration and quieter operation.

Regular oil changes combined with a properly reset oil change light ensure your Dodge Journey remains reliable for years to come.

Tips for Maintaining Your Dodge Journey

Resetting the oil change light is just one small part of maintenance. To keep your SUV running at its best, consider these tips:

Check fluid levels regularly: Beyond oil, monitor coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.
Rotate tires: This helps prevent uneven wear and extends tire life.
Replace air filters: Clean air filters improve fuel efficiency and engine health.
Listen to your vehicle: Unusual sounds or smells can be early signs of problems.

A little proactive maintenance goes a long way in preventing expensive repairs later. I personally schedule a monthly quick check of fluids and tires — it takes only 10 minutes but saves a lot of headaches.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, even after following the reset steps, the oil change light may stay on. Don’t panic. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Double-check the model year instructions: Some Dodge Journey models have slightly different reset procedures. Always consult your owner’s manual.
Try the reset again: Timing is critical, so repeating steps often resolves the issue.
Check the battery: A weak or dying battery can affect the system’s ability to register a reset.
Visit a certified service center: If the light persists, a professional can run a diagnostic to ensure there’s no underlying problem with sensors or the ECM.

These minor hiccups are normal and usually don’t indicate serious engine problems — it’s often just a timing or procedural issue.

FAQs About Resetting the Dodge Journey Oil Change Light

1. How often should I reset the oil change light?
Reset it every time you perform an oil change. This ensures accurate tracking for future maintenance intervals.

2. Can I reset the light without changing the oil?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The light is there to remind you of engine maintenance. Resetting it without changing oil could lead to engine damage.

3. What if the light comes back immediately after reset?
This may indicate the oil sensor is malfunctioning or the reset process wasn’t completed properly. Repeat the reset steps, and if it persists, have a professional check your vehicle.

4. Is it safe to reset the light at home?
Absolutely. The reset procedure is simple, doesn’t require special tools, and can save you a dealership trip. Just follow the steps carefully.

5. What type of oil is best for the Dodge Journey?
High-quality synthetic or conventional motor oil meeting the manufacturer’s specifications is recommended. Synthetic oils are preferable for longevity and engine protection.

6. Can I combine oil change and other maintenance resets?
Yes, some models allow you to reset other maintenance reminders simultaneously using the trip odometer or accelerator methods. Check your manual for details.

7. What should I do if I forget to reset the oil change light?
Your vehicle will continue to display the reminder until reset. Simply follow the steps during your next maintenance session — it won’t harm your engine in the short term.

Conclusion: Keep Your Dodge Journey Running Smoothly

Resetting the Dodge Journey oil change light is more than a simple dashboard trick — it’s a vital part of vehicle maintenance. By following the steps outlined above, you ensure that your car accurately tracks its oil changes and reminds you when it’s time for the next one.

Regular oil changes paired with timely light resets help maintain your engine’s health, improve fuel efficiency, and prevent expensive repairs. Whether you’re a long-time Dodge Journey owner or a new driver, these small maintenance steps save money and prolong the life of your SUV.

Remember, your Journey is more than a vehicle — it’s a reliable partner on countless adventures. Treat it well, and it will continue to perform at its best for years to come.