Question

What does it mean when a wrench light comes on in a Honda?

The wrench light on Honda automobiles is just a maintenance reminder. So, you should not be concerned if you see it on your dashboard.

The illuminated wrench is a feature of your car’s self-care system. Your car’s sensors can tell you if it requires maintenance, and this system relays that information and lets you know when your model should get serviced. A wrench icon and a maintenance alert will appear on the dashboard. The purpose of this message is to alert you to the fact that your car requires maintenance. 

Based on your driving habits, more recent Honda vehicles calculate how frequently you should service your car. Honda’s wrench indicator illuminates automatically when the oil life reaches 15%. And it remains on until the oil life is reset. 

Newer Honda models, like the new CR-V, can display specific details based on oil life percentage:

• 15% – A wrench indicator and a maintenance code appear on the dashboard with the list of items that need to be serviced.  
•  5% – Service is due now.
•  0% – Service is overdue. The number of miles overdue (with a negative sign next to it) will also appear on the dashboard. The reminder will remain on the dashboard until the vehicle has been serviced. 

Can I drive with the wrench light on in a Honda? 

While the Honda wrench light symbol on your dashboard is nothing but a service maintenance reminder, it is okay to drive with it, but it is always advised to find the cause for the blinking light and not keep it on for longer.

In addition, stick to Honda’s recommended maintenance schedule if you want to keep the Honda wrench light from blinking on the dashboard. So, if you have a Honda and the dashboard displays a wrench icon, it is time for your next scheduled maintenance appointment.