On most RAM, Jeep and Dodge vehicles you can clear the oil change light two ways: through the Uconnect or instrument-cluster settings menu, or with the classic ignition-and-accelerator-pedal trick. Only reset it after the oil and filter have actually been changed. The light is a maintenance reminder, not an oil-level gauge.
Before You Reset: Change the Oil First
The oil change indicator is a service reminder, not an oil-level sensor. It counts down based on the kilometres and conditions you drive in, then flags when service is due. Resetting it without changing the oil just hides the reminder while your engine keeps running on worn-out oil. Always finish the oil and filter change first, then clear the light.
Method 1, Uconnect Touchscreen or Instrument Cluster Menu
Newer RAM, Jeep and Dodge models let you reset through the on-screen menus:
- Turn the ignition to ON/RUN without starting the engine (or start the engine if your manual calls for it).
- On the Uconnect touchscreen, open Settings, then Vehicle.
- Select the Oil Life or Oil Change reset option and confirm when prompted.
- If your truck uses the instrument-cluster display instead, scroll to the Vehicle Info menu, choose Oil Life, and press and hold OK until it returns to 100%.
Exact menu names vary by model and Uconnect version, so follow the closest matching option on your screen.
Method 2, Ignition + Accelerator Pedal
This method works on most RAM trucks even without a touchscreen:
- Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, but do not start the engine. (Push-button start: press START/STOP once without your foot on the brake.)
- Slowly press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor three times within about 10 seconds.
- Turn the ignition OFF (push-button: press START/STOP once).
- Start the engine to confirm. If the message reappears, repeat the steps. It usually means the pedal wasn’t pressed fully.
Done correctly, this resets the oil life back to 100%.
What the Oil Change Light Actually Means
Your RAM, Jeep or Dodge tracks engine hours, kilometres and driving conditions to estimate when the oil has broken down. An “Oil Change Required” or “Oil Life 0%” message means you’ve reached that interval, it’s a reminder to service the engine, not a warning that you’re low on oil. If a separate low-oil-pressure light appears, stop and check your oil level right away.
A Note on Model Years
Steps differ by model year and trim. Trucks from roughly 2019 onward usually reset through the Uconnect or cluster menu, while older models rely on the accelerator-pedal method. When in doubt, your owner’s manual lists the exact procedure for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the oil change indicator mean?
It’s a maintenance reminder. Your RAM, Jeep or Dodge estimates oil life from the kilometres driven and your driving conditions, then displays “Oil Change Required” when service is due. It does not measure how much oil is in the engine.
How often does a RAM need an oil change?
It depends on the engine, model year and how you drive. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual and the oil life indicator rather than a fixed number, and service sooner under severe-duty conditions like towing.
Can I reset the oil light without changing the oil?
You can, but you shouldn’t. Resetting only clears the reminder. It doesn’t refresh the oil. Running on degraded oil accelerates engine wear, so change the oil and filter first.
Why did the oil light come back after I reset it?
Usually the reset didn’t take, the accelerator wasn’t pressed fully, or the menu step wasn’t confirmed. Repeat the procedure. If it keeps returning right away, have the system checked.
Book Your Next Oil Change at Sherwood Dodge
Prefer to skip the steps? Our service team will change your oil and filter and reset the indicator for you. Visit Sherwood Dodge at 230 Provincial Ave, Sherwood Park, AB T8H 0E1, or call 780-410-4100 to book your next oil change.
More owner how-tos: how to connect your phone to Uconnect and how to set the tire fill alert.
