I didn't recieve an owners manual when I purchased my car used. My service engine light has recently changed color. I'm not completely stupid, I know this isn't a good thing, but my car seems to be running fine. Any idea what this light could be indicating?

 

Maintanence required light? <--(did i spell that right?)
or check engine light?

 

It's the maintenance required light. A friend of mine said he has something similar on his Mercedes, and that all it means is they recommend it's time for a tune up. Is that all this light indicates?

 

The odometer is coming up on a point when maintenance is recommended. (Could mean anything from an oil change on up). If you're caught up on your maintenance, just reset the reminder light.

 

it could be just for an oil change.

 

The maintenance required light serves this function and only this function:

At 6,000 miles since it was reset last it will flash for 10 seconds when you start the car.

At 7,500 miles since it was reset last it will turn on and stay on.

It's to remind you of the factory oil change interval. I find it useful and only change my oil by this indicator, but I realize a lot of you do not use it. It does not mean anything else. It doesn't indicate a mechanical problem, doesn't indicate any higher service than an oil change.

If you need an oil change, have it done. Afterwards follow these steps:

1. While ignition is off, press and hold the SELECT and RESET buttons.
2. While continuing to hold them, turn the ignition to the ON position, but do not start engine.
3. Keep holding SELECT and RESET until the light finishes flashing and goes out.
4. Turn ignition off, then back on - the light should come on for a second and go out as normal.