Owners of a 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander quickly learn that maintaining the vehicle’s health involves more than just filling the gas tank. Staying on top of scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, is essential for ensuring the S-AWC drivetrain and the 2.4-liter MIVEC engine run smoothly for years. While the process of changing the oil is straightforward, resetting the oil life monitor afterward is a critical step that often leaves drivers puzzled.
Understanding the Oil Life Monitor System
The 2018 Outlander does not rely on a fixed calendar or mileage interval; instead, it uses an Oil Life Monitor (OLM) system. This computer algorithm tracks driving conditions such as engine speed, temperature, and climate to calculate when the oil actually needs changing. Resetting this system after an oil change is necessary because the dashboard alert will continue to remind you of the upcoming service until the counter is manually cleared.
Tools and Preparation for the Reset
Before beginning the reset procedure, ensure you have completed the physical oil change and filled the engine with the correct viscosity and capacity. You will need a clean microfiber cloth and access to the vehicle’s ignition. The 2018 model requires the engine to be off during the initial steps, so parking on a level surface and ensuring the parking brake is engaged is the standard safety practice.
Step-by-Step Reset Procedure
To reset the oil life, turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine. This should illuminate all the dashboard warning lights. Within seven seconds of turning the key, you must press the accelerator pedal to the floor and release it exactly three times. Following this, hold the pedal to the floor for approximately ten seconds. The Oil Life indicator on the dashboard should blink three times, signaling that the system has been successfully reset.
Verifying the Reset
After completing the sequence, turning the ignition off and then back to the "ON" position will show the current oil life percentage on the dashboard display. If the percentage does not reset or the system reverts immediately, it usually indicates that the pedal was not pressed firmly enough or the timing of the presses was inaccurate. Double-checking the sequence ensures the maintenance reminder stays accurate for the next service interval.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Some drivers report that the oil life monitor does not reset even after following the steps correctly. This is often due to a loose battery connection or a glitch in the vehicle's computer. Disconnecting the negative battery terminal for a few minutes acts as a hard reboot for the system. However, it is important to note that a reset will not clear a P0562 code if the vehicle’s charging system is actually malfunctioning.
Schedule and Best Practices
While the reset allows you to customize the monitoring window, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations is vital. Driving in severe conditions, such as frequent short trips or extreme heat, degrades oil faster. Resetting the monitor should only occur after confirming the physical oil has been changed; otherwise, you risk running the engine with contaminated lubricant, which could lead to costly internal damage.
