Many late model vehicles have an oil change reminder light that comes on when the engine computer estimates the oil needs to be changed.
The calculations are based on hours of engine operation, vehicle speed, ambient temperatures and other operating conditions. You do NOT have to change the oil immediately, but neither should you postpone the recommended maintenance too long. Oil should be changed every 3,000 miles for short trip city stop and go driving (especially during cold weather), or every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for mostly highway driving.
Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for the recommended service intervals.Many service reminder lights have a RESET button that allows you to turn off the light and reset the interval period. On some, though, a diagnostic computer is required for a service light reset.