How to Reset Oil Life on Honda Civic 2020

Resetting the oil life indicator on your 2020 Honda Civic is quick and simple, but it’s often misunderstood. This guide walks you through the exact steps using the dashboard controls, explains why it matters, and offers tips to keep your car in top shape.

Owning a 2020 Honda Civic means enjoying a reliable, fuel-efficient compact car packed with modern features—one of which is the intelligent Maintenance Minder system. This system monitors your driving habits, engine load, temperature, and mileage to calculate when your oil needs changing. Unlike older cars that rely solely on a fixed mileage interval (like every 3,000 or 5,000 miles), the Civic’s system gives you a dynamic oil life percentage that decreases over time. When it hits 15%, you’ll see a yellow wrench icon and “Oil Life” message. At 5%, it turns red and may flash—this is your cue to get an oil change soon.

But here’s the thing: once you’ve had your oil changed—whether at a dealership, independent shop, or DIY—you need to reset the oil life indicator. If you don’t, the system will keep counting down from the old value, potentially warning you too early or too late next time. And while it might seem like a small detail, skipping this step can lead to confusion, unnecessary service visits, or even engine wear if you delay changes based on inaccurate data. The good news? Resetting the oil life on your 2020 Honda Civic is straightforward, takes less than two minutes, and requires nothing more than your hands and attention to the dashboard.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding How To Reset Oil Life On Honda Civic 2020: Provides essential knowledge

Understanding the Honda Maintenance Minder System

The 2020 Honda Civic uses what Honda calls the “Maintenance Minder” system—a smart, algorithm-driven tool designed to take the guesswork out of routine maintenance. Instead of relying on a simple odometer reading, this system analyzes real-world driving conditions. For example, if you frequently drive short distances in stop-and-go traffic (which stresses the engine and degrades oil faster), the system will recommend an oil change sooner than if you mostly cruise on highways at steady speeds.

This system displays oil life as a percentage, starting at 100% after a reset and decreasing over time. It also provides specific service codes (like A1, B12, etc.) that tell you exactly what needs attention—oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, etc. The oil life percentage is shown in the instrument cluster, usually near the speedometer or in the multi-information display (MID). You can cycle through different menus using the steering wheel controls to view it anytime.

Why does this matter for resetting? Because the system doesn’t just track oil—it tracks *your car’s health*. Resetting the oil life correctly ensures the next countdown is accurate. If you reset it without changing the oil, you’re essentially lying to your car’s computer, which could lead to poor engine performance or even damage over time. So always reset only after a proper oil change.

When Should You Reset the Oil Life?

Timing is everything when it comes to resetting the oil life on your 2020 Honda Civic. The reset should happen immediately after your oil has been changed—no sooner, no later. Here’s a practical breakdown:

If you’re doing the oil change yourself, reset the system right after you’ve installed the new oil filter and poured in the fresh oil. Make sure the engine is off and the key is in the “ON” position (or the car is powered up without starting the engine). If you’re taking your Civic to a service center, ask the technician to reset the oil life as part of the service. Most reputable shops do this automatically, but it never hurts to confirm.

Avoid resetting the system if you haven’t actually changed the oil. Some drivers mistakenly think resetting will “clear” the warning without needing service—but that defeats the entire purpose of the Maintenance Minder. Doing so could mean driving with degraded oil, which reduces lubrication, increases engine wear, and lowers fuel efficiency.

Also, note that the oil life indicator may appear even if you’ve recently changed the oil—especially if you didn’t reset it last time. This is common and not a sign of a malfunction. Just follow the reset procedure below to sync the system with your current oil condition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Oil Life on 2020 Honda Civic

Now for the main event: how to actually reset the oil life. Don’t worry—it’s easier than tying your shoes. All you need is access to the steering wheel controls and about 60 seconds of patience. Follow these steps exactly as written:

Step 1: Turn the Ignition to “ON”

Sit in the driver’s seat and turn the key to the “ON” position—or press the Start button twice without pressing the brake pedal (if your Civic has push-button start). The dashboard lights will illuminate, and the instrument cluster will power up. Do not start the engine. You should see all warning lights briefly flash, including the oil life indicator if it’s active.

Step 2: Navigate to the Oil Life Display

Use the steering wheel controls on the left side (usually labeled with arrows or “INFO”) to scroll through the menu options in the multi-information display. Press the “▼” (down arrow) or “INFO” button repeatedly until you see “Oil Life” displayed as a percentage. It might show something like “Oil Life 15%” or “Oil Life 5%” depending on your last reset.

Step 3: Press and Hold the Select/Reset Button

Once the oil life percentage is showing, press and hold the “SELECT/RESET” button (often located at the end of the steering wheel control stalk or integrated into the arrow buttons). Keep holding it down. After about 5–10 seconds, the oil life percentage should start blinking.

Step 4: Confirm the Reset

While the percentage is blinking, press and hold the “SELECT/RESET” button again for another 5–10 seconds. You’ll see the percentage reset to 100%, and the “Oil Life” message will disappear or return to normal display mode. Release the button.

Step 5: Turn Off the Ignition

Turn the key back to “OFF” or press the Start button once to power down the vehicle. The reset is now complete. The next time you start the car, the oil life should show 100%, and the Maintenance Minder will begin tracking anew.

Pro Tip: Double-Check Your Work

After resetting, start the engine and let it idle for a minute. Check the instrument cluster—if the oil life shows 100% and no warning lights are on, you’re good to go. If the light remains or the percentage hasn’t changed, repeat the steps carefully. Sometimes a slight delay or missed button press can interrupt the process.

Troubleshooting Common Reset Issues

Even with clear instructions, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

The Oil Life Won’t Reset

If the percentage doesn’t blink or reset after holding the button, make sure the ignition is in the “ON” position—not “ACC” or “START.” Also, verify you’re pressing the correct button. On some 2020 Civics, the “SELECT/RESET” function is combined with the arrow keys—try holding the center button or the one labeled “SEL/RESET.”

The Dashboard Shows “—” or “ERR”

This usually means the system didn’t register the reset properly. Turn the car off completely, wait 30 seconds, then try again. In rare cases, a weak battery can cause communication issues with the instrument cluster—ensure your battery is in good condition.

Warning Light Stays On After Reset

If the oil life or maintenance light remains illuminated after a successful reset, it could indicate a deeper issue—like low oil level, a faulty sensor, or incomplete oil change. Check your oil dipstick to confirm the level is correct. If everything looks fine, consult a Honda technician.

Different Trim Levels, Slightly Different Controls

The 2020 Civic comes in several trims (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, Touring). While the reset process is nearly identical across all models, the exact location of the “SELECT/RESET” button may vary. Touring models with larger displays might have additional menu layers—just keep scrolling until you find “Oil Life.”

DIY vs. Professional Oil Changes: Does It Matter?

One question we hear often is: “Does it matter who changes the oil—me or a mechanic?” The short answer is no—what matters is that the oil is changed correctly and the system is reset. Whether you’re a weekend warrior with a wrench or you trust your local Honda dealer, the reset procedure remains the same.

That said, professional service centers often include the reset as part of their standard oil change package. If you’re paying for full-service maintenance, expect them to handle it. But if you’re doing it yourself, don’t skip this step—it’s just as important as tightening the drain plug.

For DIYers, here’s a bonus tip: keep a small notebook or use a free app (like “MyCarDoesWhat” or “Honda Maintenance Tracker”) to log each oil change. Note the date, mileage, oil type (e.g., 0W-20 synthetic), and whether you reset the system. This builds a maintenance history that boosts resale value and helps you spot patterns—like if your oil life drops faster in winter months.

Why Regular Oil Changes Still Matter

Even with a smart Maintenance Minder, regular oil changes are non-negotiable for engine health. Oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, cools the engine, and carries away contaminants. Over time, it breaks down, loses viscosity, and collects sludge—especially in turbocharged engines like the 1.5L in many 2020 Civics.

Honda recommends using Genuine Honda Motor Oil or an equivalent API-certified synthetic blend (typically 0W-20). Stick to the oil specified in your owner’s manual—using the wrong grade can void your warranty and harm performance. Most 2020 Civics can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between changes under normal driving, but severe conditions (towing, extreme heat/cold, frequent short trips) may require more frequent service.

Resetting the oil life isn’t just about clearing a light—it’s about respecting your engine’s needs and staying proactive with maintenance.

Final Thoughts and Best Practices

Resetting the oil life on your 2020 Honda Civic is a small task with big implications. It keeps your Maintenance Minder accurate, prevents unnecessary worry, and ensures your engine gets the care it deserves. Think of it as a digital handshake between you and your car—acknowledging that you’ve done your part.

To make this process even smoother, adopt these best practices:
– Always reset immediately after an oil change.
– Use high-quality oil and filters.
– Keep a maintenance log.
– Don’t ignore other service codes (like tire rotation or brake checks) that may appear alongside oil life.
– If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual—it’s your car’s instruction booklet for a reason.

And remember: your Civic is designed to last. With proper care—and yes, timely oil life resets—it can easily surpass 200,000 miles. So take two minutes today to reset that indicator, and drive with confidence tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reset the oil life without changing the oil?

No, you should never reset the oil life unless you’ve actually changed the oil. Resetting without service misleads the Maintenance Minder and could result in driving with degraded oil, which harms engine performance and longevity.

What if my 2020 Civic has a touchscreen instead of physical buttons?

The 2020 Honda Civic does not use a touchscreen for oil life resets—even on higher trims. The process always involves the steering wheel controls and instrument cluster. The touchscreen (if equipped) is used for infotainment, not maintenance functions.

How often should I change the oil in my 2020 Civic?

Under normal driving conditions, every 7,500 to 10,000 miles is typical. However, the Maintenance Minder system will tell you exactly when based on your driving habits. Always follow its recommendations rather than a fixed schedule.

Will resetting the oil life affect my warranty?

No, resetting the oil life properly after a legitimate oil change supports warranty compliance. In fact, failing to maintain proper records—including resets—could complicate warranty claims if an engine issue arises.

What does the “B12” code mean when it appears with oil life?

The “B12” code means you need an oil change (B), tire rotation (1), and inspection of brakes, suspension, and steering (2). It’s common to see multiple codes together—address each item listed to keep your Civic in top condition.

Can a dead battery prevent the oil life from resetting?

Yes, a weak or dying battery can cause electrical glitches in the instrument cluster, making it difficult to reset the oil life. If you’re having trouble, check your battery voltage or try jump-starting the car before attempting the reset again.