In a 2013 Honda Accord, you mostly reset only a few indicators after service—most notably the Maintenance Minder (oil life) and, once tire pressures are corrected, the TPMS light. Other warning lights generally require addressing the underlying issue rather than a simple reset.
This article walks you through the common resets you might need, explains what you can and cannot reset, and offers practical tips to avoid confusion or inadvertent clears. Read on for step-by-step instructions and cautions.
Resetting the Maintenance Minder (Oil Life)
Use the instrument cluster controls to cycle to the Oil Life display and reset it to 100% after an oil change.
- Turn the ignition to ON with the engine OFF.
- Use the SEL/RESET or trip/select control on the instrument cluster to cycle through the displays until you highlight “Oil Life.”
- Press and hold the SEL/RESET button (about 5 seconds) until the Oil Life reads 100% or the display confirms a reset.
- Turn the ignition OFF, then start the engine to verify the Oil Life reads 100%.
Resetting the Oil Life is appropriate only after an oil change. If the oil hasn’t been changed, resetting Oil Life will give a misleading indication of maintenance status.
Resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
After inflating all tires to the recommended cold pressures, the system may relearn automatically. Some trims offer a manual reset option; follow the steps below and consult your owner’s manual for trim-specific details.
- Ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended cold pressure (found on the door jamb placard or owner’s manual).
- Drive at steady speeds (typically above 30 mph) for 10–15 minutes or more to allow the system to relearn.
- If your model has a TPMS reset control, with the ignition ON and the engine OFF, press and hold the TPMS reset button (often located under the dashboard on the driver’s side or in the glove box) until the TPMS light blinks or you hear a chime, then release. Drive to complete the relearn.
- If the TPMS warning remains after correcting pressures and attempting a relearn, the sensor(s) may be faulty or out of range and should be inspected by a professional.
The modern TPMS relies on sensor data from each wheel. A reset without addressing tire pressure won’t resolve the warning, and sensor faults require service.
Other dashboard lights and display settings
Not every dash light is designed to be reset by the driver. Some indicators point to genuine problems that require repair, while others are simply display settings you can adjust.
- Instrument panel brightness: Adjust with the dimmer control near the headlight switch to set a comfortable level; there is no separate reset for brightness beyond this.
- Check Engine, ABS, or other fault lights: These should not be cleared without addressing the underlying fault. If such a light comes one, diagnose the issue or consult a mechanic.
- Maintenance reminders unrelated to oil life (if applicable in your trim): Some warnings may require service before they clear; refer to the owner’s manual for specifics.
Gently adjusting display brightness or acknowledging non-critical reminders is safe, but persistent or recurring warning lights generally signal service needs rather than a simple reset.
What to do if lights won’t reset or keep returning
If you’ve followed the standard reset steps and the lights persist, or a warning light returns after a reset, it’s a sign to investigate the root cause. Below are practical steps to take.
- Consult the owner’s manual for model-specific reset methods and icons you’re seeing on the dash.
- Check for service bulletins or recalls that might affect your model year.
- Schedule a diagnostic with a trusted mechanic or Honda dealer, especially for lights like Check Engine, ABS, or airbag warnings.
Addressing the underlying issue is essential; a successful reset without correction can mask a problem that could affect vehicle performance or safety.
Summary
Resetting dashboard indicators on a 2013 Honda Accord mainly covers the Maintenance Minder (oil life) after an oil change and TPMS after tire pressures are corrected. Other warning lights require diagnosis and repair rather than a simple reset. For brightness, use the dimmer control. If warning lights persist, seek professional inspection to ensure safe operation of the vehicle.