How to Reset the Oil Life Indicator on a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer

Which Ford Explorer model years does this cover?

These oil life reset specifications apply to every Ford Explorer built from 2012 through 2019 — the U502 (5th generation), mid-size 3-row crossover suv (unibody, fwd/awd). 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 2012–2019 Ford Explorer

• 20122.0L EcoBoost joins as an FWD-only economy option (no tow package)
• 2013Explorer Sport added: 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, AWD, 352mm brakes, 20-in wheels
• 2014Essentially unchanged: a few new exterior colors added; Limited trim gains standard heated second-row seats
• 2015Essentially unchanged: Limited trim adds an available adaptive cruise control option, with second-row heated seats offered as an option lineup-wide
• 2016Major facelift: new front/rear styling, 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost replaces the 2.0L, Platinum trim (3.5L EcoBoost) added, SYNC 3 arrives mid-cycle; low-beam bulb changes to H11
• 2018–2019Minor updates; carryover mechanicals in the final years before the RWD-platform redesign

How do you reset the oil life on a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?

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 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?

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 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?

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. Cars without the menu (base clusters) use the pedal method: ignition ON engine off, press and hold both the accelerator and brake pedals fully for about 25 seconds until the cluster shows "oil life reset" complete. The Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor counts down from 100% based on operating conditions, capped at 10,000 mi / 1 year.