Ok, at first it was flashing a few times right after i started the car. after about a week it stays on permantely now. Before i take it in, what could be some of the reasons it would be on? thanks for the help.

 

The light comes on at regular scheduled intervals. How many miles do you have on?

 

right around 50k

 

It might just be an oil change interval. 60k is the next scheduled maintenance interval I believe. Change oil, check brakes, tires, alignment, then reset the light.

 

alright, thanks for the help.

 

The intervals might be by mileage not by the advised service schedule. For example 3000miles no light, the light comes on around 6000miles. This is assuming the car is maintained to the schedule and the light is reset after a service, not just an oil change. Confused? Me too.

I recommend getting the full service closest to your mileage and having the light reset so you can actually use it as a guage for when servies are required.

 

just reset it and keep on top of your maint. thats what most owners do. i think it comes on every oil change or 7,500 miles...

 

every 7500 miles is right, but I can't recall the service schedule off the top of my head. This was taken from a post by member "bryant"

-replace engine oil
-Check tire inflation and condition
-Inspect front and rear brakes
-check pads and calipers
-check parking brake adjustment. (9-13 clicks when pulled up)
-Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots
-check rack grease
-check fluid line for damage and leaks
-check boots for damage and leaking grease.
-inspect suspension components
-check bolts for tightness
-check condition of ball joints boots for deterioration and damage
-inspect driveshaft boots
-check boots for cracks and boot bands for tightness
-inspect brake hoses and lines including ABS
-check master cylinder, proportioning control valve, and ABS modulator for damage and leakage
-inspect all fluid levels and conditions of fluids
-manual transmission fluid
-engine coolant
-brake fluid
-clutch fluid
-differential fluid
-windshield washer fluid
-inspect cooling system hoses and connections
-check for damage, leaks, and deterioration's
-check for proper fan operation
-inspect exhaust system
-check catalytic converter heat shield, exhaust pipe, and muffler for damage, leaks, and tightness
-inspect fuel lines and connections
-check for loose connections, cracks, and deterioration; retighten loose connections and replace damaged parts.
-inspect drive belts, for cracks and damage
-alternator compressor belt: inspect auto tensioner indicator. needs no adjustment

 

service schedule really depends on how you drive the car...

the main service you should worry about is:

valve adjustment...
tranny fluid change...
oil change...
diff fluid change...
brakes...
tires...

 

the light wont come on for oil changes. it comes on for the maintenence you SHOULD do at the scheduled intervals.