Maintenance Indicator Reset

Engine Oil Life System

When to Change Engine Oil

Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you must reset the system every time the oil is changed. When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is necessary. A CHG OIL message in the message center will come on. Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the oil life system may not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, the engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. It is also important to check the oil regularly and keep it at the proper level. If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must change the oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.

How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System

The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change the engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Anytime the oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change the oil prior to the CHG OIL message being turned on, reset the system.

After changing the engine oil, reset the system by doing the following:

1. Press and release the trip/reset button until the OIL LIFE message is displayed.
2. Then press and hold the trip/reset button until a chime sounds five times, and RESET is displayed in the message center. When the system is reset, the odometer will again be displayed in the message center.
3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.

If the CHG OIL message comes back on when you start your vehicle, the engine oil life system has not reset. Repeat the procedure.

Your vehicle has a unique oil filter element. When installing the filler cap do not exceed 18 lb-ft (25 Nm). Inspect the condition of the O-ring and replace if damaged. See your Saturn retailer for additional information.

What to Do with Used Oil

Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products. Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of used oil, ask your retailer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.