2005 Toyota Tundra Maintenance Required Light
Problem:
So I figured I would ramble about good documentation. I just got my oil changed on my 05 Toyota Tundra (Mmmm double cab, V8, 4×4… beast….) and have noticed in the manual it tells me that when the MAINT REQD light is on that means you need to change your oil. The manual makes it seem that changing the oil will remedy the problem. BULLPOOPY!! No seriously… as I sit here and ponder the MAINT REQD light I now think something is wrong with my lovely truck. Well, it turns out that the light has to be reset MANUALLY.
Solution:
To fix this you need to make sure you odometer is pointed to the odometer (i.e. Not trip A or B). Turn you key to the off position and then hold the trip reset button down. Turn your key to the on position and you will see about 5-6 hyphens that will count down. Once they have finished counting down… walla!! The light goes out.
Now, what tells this light to come on you say? Every 5,000 miles +-400 the light will come on and then you have to repeat the process. Most places you get your oil changed will know this… (mine had the new guy).
Why I am bitching??
Documentation is key when you are passing a product from the creator to the user. Average Joe will most likely look to the manual for reference when they find an issue. The issue should be clearly explained and if there is a human way to fix the issue, it should also be clearly explained. It really is that simple.