2013 Ford Escape How To Reset Oil Light

2013 Ford Escape: Oil Life Reset Procedure

Maintaining the proper oil level and scheduling regular oil changes are critical for the longevity of your 2013 Ford Escape's engine. The oil life monitoring system provides a convenient reminder, but requires manual resetting after each oil change.

Understanding the Oil Life Monitoring System

The 2013 Ford Escape utilizes an intelligent Oil Life Monitoring System (IOLM). This system doesn't directly measure oil quality. Instead, it uses an algorithm that considers various operating conditions to estimate oil degradation. Factors like engine temperature, driving habits (stop-and-go vs. highway driving), and mileage contribute to the calculated oil life percentage.

When the system determines that the oil life has reached a low threshold (typically below 5%), a "Change Oil Soon" message will appear in the information display on the instrument panel. This is your prompt to perform an oil change and subsequently reset the IOLM.

Step-by-Step Reset Procedure using the Steering Wheel Controls

This procedure is applicable to 2013 Ford Escape models equipped with steering wheel-mounted controls for the information display.

Note: Ensure the vehicle is in "Park" (P) and the engine is off. The ignition should be in the "On" position, but without starting the engine (Accessory or Run mode).

Step 1: Access the Information Display Menu.

Use the directional buttons on the steering wheel (typically up/down arrow buttons) to navigate through the available menus on the information display. The goal is to find the "Settings" or "Vehicle Settings" menu.

Step 2: Select "Oil Life Reset".

Once in the "Settings" or "Vehicle Settings" menu, use the directional buttons to scroll through the options until you locate "Oil Life Reset".

Step 3: Initiate the Reset.

With "Oil Life Reset" highlighted, press and hold the "OK" or "Reset" button on the steering wheel. You may need to hold the button for several seconds (typically 5-10 seconds) until the display confirms the reset. The display should show a message such as "Oil Life Resetting" or "Oil Life Set to 100%".

Step 4: Confirmation.

After the reset process is complete, the display should indicate that the oil life has been reset to 100%. You can verify this by navigating back to the main display screen and checking for the absence of the "Change Oil Soon" message.

Alternative Reset Procedure (If Steering Wheel Controls Are Unavailable)

Some 2013 Ford Escape models may not be equipped with steering wheel controls for the information display. In these cases, the reset procedure involves using the controls located on the instrument cluster itself.

Note: As with the previous method, ensure the vehicle is in "Park" (P) and the engine is off. The ignition should be in the "On" position, but without starting the engine (Accessory or Run mode).

Step 1: Locate the Trip/Reset Button.

Identify the trip odometer reset button on the instrument cluster. This button is usually a small, black button located near the speedometer or tachometer.

Step 2: Navigate to Oil Life Display.

Turn the ignition key to the "On" position (without starting the engine). Repeatedly press the trip/reset button until the oil life percentage is displayed on the information screen.

Step 3: Initiate the Reset.

Once the oil life percentage is displayed, press and hold the trip/reset button. Continue holding the button until the oil life resets to 100%. This may take several seconds.

Step 4: Confirmation.

Release the trip/reset button after the oil life has been reset. The display should now show 100% oil life. Verify by turning the ignition off and then back on to confirm the "Change Oil Soon" message is no longer present.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter difficulties resetting the oil life monitoring system, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Incorrect Ignition Position: Ensure the ignition is in the correct position (On, but engine not running).
• Button Hold Duration: Make sure you are holding the "OK", "Reset", or Trip/Reset button for the required duration (typically 5-10 seconds).
• Software Glitches: In rare cases, a software glitch may prevent the reset. Disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it can sometimes resolve this issue. However, this should be done with caution as it may reset other electronic settings.
• Underlying Mechanical Issues: If the "Change Oil Soon" message reappears shortly after resetting the IOLM, it could indicate an underlying engine problem requiring professional diagnosis. Examples include excessive oil consumption or contamination.

The Importance of Regular Oil Changes

While the oil life monitoring system provides a helpful guideline, it's essential to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals, even if the system hasn't yet indicated a need for a change. Consult your 2013 Ford Escape's owner's manual for the recommended oil type, viscosity, and service intervals. Generally, changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles is a good practice, depending on driving conditions.

Using the correct type of oil, as specified in the owner's manual, is crucial for proper engine lubrication and performance. Ignoring recommended oil change intervals can lead to:

• Increased engine wear and tear.
• Reduced fuel economy.
• Engine sludge buildup.
• Potential engine damage.

Professional Assistance

If you are uncomfortable performing an oil change or resetting the IOLM yourself, or if you suspect an underlying engine problem, it is always recommended to seek assistance from a qualified automotive technician. A professional mechanic can accurately assess your vehicle's condition and provide the necessary maintenance or repairs.

Additionally, some quick lube facilities may offer oil change services that include resetting the oil life monitoring system as part of their standard procedure.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Resetting the oil life monitoring system in your 2013 Ford Escape is a simple but important task after each oil change. Properly resetting the system ensures accurate monitoring of oil life and helps prevent premature or unnecessary oil changes.

• The 2013 Ford Escape uses an intelligent Oil Life Monitoring System (IOLM) to estimate oil degradation.
• Resetting the IOLM is necessary after each oil change.
• Two methods exist for resetting the IOLM: using steering wheel controls or the instrument cluster button.
• Consult your owner's manual for recommended oil change intervals and oil type.
• Seek professional assistance if you are uncomfortable performing the reset or suspect engine problems.