Symptoms
- Wrench-shaped icon lit on the dash
- Car may drive normally, or feel sluggish/underpowered depending on the cause
- Sometimes paired with 'reduced power' or a stability control light
Likely causes
- CommonRoutine maintenance reminderOn many models this is simply a scheduled service alert, similar to an oil change light.
- PossibleElectronic throttle control faultOn some brands (notably certain Nissan/Infiniti models) this wrench means a real drivetrain issue and often comes with reduced power.
- PossibleTransmission or other drivetrain faultCan indicate a more serious problem depending on the manufacturer.
What to do
- Check your owner's manual to see what the wrench icon specifically means for your make and model.
- Note whether the car feels normal or sluggish/underpowered, which points to a real fault versus a reminder.
- If it's a maintenance reminder, schedule the next service and reset the light as usual.
- If the car feels different to drive, avoid highway speeds and hard acceleration until checked.
- Have the code read at a shop if the icon is paired with any reduced power or drivetrain symptoms.
- Get any flagged sensor or drivetrain component repaired based on the scan results.
Tools and parts
- OBD-II code reader (optional)
When to call a pro
See a mechanic if the wrench light comes with reduced power or unusual driving feel, since on some models it flags a real drivetrain fault, not just maintenance.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.