2012–2017 2nd generation
How to Reset the Oil Life Indicator on a 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox
Reset the oil life or maintenance reminder on the 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox in 5 steps, using only the controls already in the car. No scan tool needed.
Last verified
Reset procedure, 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox
High confidence- Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off (push-button cars: press START without touching the brake)
- Use the MENU button on the turn-signal stalk to select the Vehicle Information menu, then scroll to "Remaining Oil Life" with the thumbwheel
- Press and hold the SET/CLR button until the display resets to 100%
- Alternative: with ignition ON and engine off, slowly press the accelerator pedal to the floor and release it 3 times within 5 seconds, the oil life resets to 100%
- Turn the ignition off, then start the engine and confirm the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message is gone
The GM Oil Life Monitor is an algorithm, not an oil-condition sensor. Reset it only after actually changing the oil. If the pedal method doesn't take, repeat it, timing matters.
Which Chevrolet Equinox model years does this cover?
These oil life reset specifications apply to every Chevrolet Equinox built from 2012 through 2017 — the 2nd generation, compact/mid-size crossover suv (theta platform). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2012Last year for the 3.0L LFW V6 option
- 20133.6L LFX V6 (301 hp) replaces the 3.0L; MyLink touchscreen infotainment added
- 2016Facelift begins: new projector-beam headlights across the lineup with LED running lamps on LT/LTZ; Teen Driver mode and an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot added GM-wide this model year
- 2016–2017Facelift: new front/rear fascias, grille and wheels; mechanical specs (oil, filters, wipers, bulbs) carry over unchanged
- 2017Final year of the 2nd generation: carries over with minimal changes after 2016's refresh; LTZ trim renamed Premier, new Midnight Edition and Sport appearance packages added
2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox oil life reset: common questions
How do you reset the oil life on a 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
- 5 steps, using only the controls in the car, the full sequence is above.
Do you need a scan tool to reset the oil light on a 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
- No. The procedure above uses the vehicle's own controls. A scan tool is only necessary if the reset does not take, which usually points at a different fault.
Why won't the oil light reset on a 2012–2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
- Almost always a timing problem in the sequence, a step held too briefly, or the ignition in the wrong position. Repeat it exactly, with the engine off and the key in accessory rather than run, unless the steps say otherwise. The GM Oil Life Monitor is an algorithm, not an oil-condition sensor. Reset it only after actually changing the oil. If the pedal method doesn't take, repeat it, timing matters.
Sources
- AMSOIL product lookup, 2013 Equinox 2.4L LEA (oil viscosity/capacity/torque)
- AMSOIL product lookup, 2015 Equinox 3.6L LFX (6 qt, 5W-30)
- NHTSA TSB library, GM Special Coverage N192291100, excessive oil consumption
- ClassAction.org, Equinox/Terrain oil-consumption settlement details (SCA 15285)
- NHTSA recall 16V-582, 2013 Equinox windshield wiper motor
- NHTSA recall report 22V-165, 2014–2015 Equinox/Terrain wiper module
- TirePressure.org, 2013 Equinox placard tire sizes and pressures
- fueleconomy.gov, 2014 Equinox EPA ratings
- FinditParts, ACDelco PF457G cross-reference (Wix 57082, Baldwin P7442)
- TerrainForum, GM bulletin on ACDelco PF63E filter for high-feature V6
- Turan-Foley Chevrolet, Equinox lug nut torque (140 lb-ft) by year