Ford Kuga Service Reset: Complete Guide to Resetting the Oil Change and Maintenance Reminder

Understanding the Ford Kuga Service Reminder System

The Ford Kuga’s oil change and service reminder indicator is designed to alert drivers when routine maintenance is due. After an oil change is completed, the system must be manually reset; otherwise, the “Service: Oil Change Required”, “Service: Oil Reset in Progress”, or “Service: Oil Reset Complete” messages may continue to appear. We provide a fully updated, step-by-step guide covering all Kuga model years from 2008 to 2019, including push-button-start vehicles.

Oil Reset Procedure for Ford Kuga (2008–2012)

These early models use a basic pedal-press method that allows the system to detect when both pedals are fully held while the ignition is in the ON position.

Steps to Reset the Service Reminder

1. Close all doors and ensure the gear selector is in Park (P).
2. Turn the ignition to ON (position II) without starting the engine.
3. Fully press and hold both the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time.
4. Continue holding for approximately 25 seconds until the dashboard displays “SERVICE: OIL RESET COMPLETE”.
5. Release both pedals.
6. Turn the ignition OFF. The reset is now successfully completed.

Oil Reset Procedure for Ford Kuga (2013–2019)

Later Kuga generations use a slightly updated system. Both pedal inputs must be detected, and the digital cluster will display progress as the reset is carried out.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Close all doors and place the gear selector in Park (P).
2. Turn the ignition to ON.
   • For key models: turn the key to position II.
   • For push-button models: press and hold the Start/Stop button for two seconds without pressing the brake.
3. Press and hold the accelerator and brake pedals simultaneously.
4. Keep both pedals fully depressed for 20–25 seconds.
5. The display will show “SERVICE: OIL RESET IN PROG.”
6. Continue holding until the cluster updates to “SERVICE: OIL RESET COMPLETE”.
7. Release both pedals.
8. Turn the ignition OFF. The oil change reminder is now fully reset.

Why the Ford Kuga Oil Light Must Be Reset After Maintenance

Resetting the service indicator ensures:

• Accurate tracking of the next oil change interval
• Proper functionality of the engine management system
• Prevention of unnecessary service warnings
• Fuller maintenance history for the vehicle

Failure to reset may lead to premature warnings, confusion over real service intervals, and incorrect oil-life calculations.

Troubleshooting When the Oil Reset Does Not Work

In some cases, the message may fail to clear. Below are the most common reasons.

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The Reset Will Not Start

• One pedal was not fully pressed
• The ignition was not in the correct ON position
• The process was not held long enough
• The battery voltage is low

The Reset Freezes on “In Progress”

• A door opened during the procedure
• The brake pedal was released too early
• There is a fault stored in the engine control module

The Warning Returns After Driving

• The oil change was not recorded correctly
• A sensor is malfunctioning
• The instrument cluster has incomplete communication with the PCM

In these cases, repeating the full procedure typically resolves the issue. If not, a diagnostic scan may be required.

Ford Kuga Oil Change Reset Timing by Generation

We summarise the reset behaviour across Kuga generations for quick reference.

Additional Tips for a Perfect Reset

Keep the Cabin Still

Movement—especially opening a door—interrupts the body control module while detecting pedal input.

Ensure Pedals Are Fully Pressed

The Kuga requires a precise full stroke of both pedals. Light pressure will not register.

Check for Stored Fault Codes

If the vehicle has an engine oil pressure or sensor-related fault, the reset may not complete.

Allow the Cluster to Finish Processing

After the message appears, wait at least two seconds before switching off the ignition.

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Ford Kuga Maintenance Reminder Logic

The Kuga calculates oil life using:

• Engine temperature patterns
• Start-stop cycles
• RPM load
• Distance travelled
• Time since last reset
• Driving style

Because of this, resetting the system after each service keeps the calculations accurate and ensures the maintenance computer delivers correct predictions for future oil change intervals.

When to Reset the Oil Service Light

Reset the indicator only after an actual oil change. Resetting without performing maintenance can mask engine wear, contaminate future readings, and potentially cause oil degradation issues.

Service Reset Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I hold the pedals during a Ford Kuga oil reset?

Approximately 20–25 seconds until the cluster confirms completion.

What message appears when the reset begins?

The display typically shows “SERVICE: OIL RESET IN PROG.”.

What confirms a successful reset?

You will see “SERVICE: OIL RESET COMPLETE” on the instrument cluster.

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Will the warning disappear immediately?

Yes. The moment the reset completes, the light goes off.

Does this reset work for both diesel and petrol Kuga engines?

Yes. All 2008–2019 Ford Kuga petrol and diesel engines use the same reset procedure.

If you want to know other articles similar to Ford Kuga Service Reset: Complete Guide to Resetting the Oil Change and Maintenance Reminder you can visit the category Service and Parts.