How to reset service/oil on a VW Amarok & disable ESC
How do I reset the service light on a Gen 1 VW Amarok?
Press and hold the ODO/SET button while turning the ignition from off to on (without start). The dash will then say "are you sure you want to reset oil service?", Proceed to press OK.
This is a 2 part process, don't forget the below if applicable.
How do I reset the inspection reminder on a First Gen VW Amarok?
Turn the Hazard lights on then press and hold the ODO/SET button while turning the ignition from off to on (without start). The dash will then say "are you sure you want to reset inspection?", Proceed to press OK.
How to completely disable Traction Control / ESC on a First Gen VW Amarok
- Open door
- Close door
- Turn ignition to on (do not start)
- Click in the seatbelt
- Turn on hazards
- Press accelerator all the way to the floor 5 times
This will reset to normal after turning the car off.
How to change a VW Amarok Gen 1 CV
Check the full step-by-step written guide with torque specs and part numbers, or watch the how to video here.
Tools Required to Change VW Amarok CV:
- 17mm Socket
- 19mm Socket
- 21mm Socket
- 27mm Socket
- M12 Spline + 6" Extension
- 19mm Spanner
- 21mm Spanner
- 6mm Allen Key
- 2 Beers
Estimated time to complete: 30 mins - 1 hour
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset the oil service light on a Gen 1 VW Amarok?
Press and hold the ODO/SET button on the instrument cluster while turning the ignition from off to on, do not start the engine. The dash will ask "are you sure you want to reset oil service?", press OK. Works on all Gen 1 Amarok models, 2010-2022 (2.0 TDI 4 cylinder and 3.0 V6 TDI).
What is the difference between the service (oil) reset and the inspection reset on a Gen 1 Amarok?
There are two separate reminders. Oil service reset: hold ODO/SET while turning ignition on, dash asks "reset oil service?", press OK. Inspection reset: turn hazard lights on first, then follow the same steps, dash asks "reset inspection?" instead. The hazards-on step is the only difference.
Does resetting the service light damage the Amarok?
No. It is purely cosmetic, it tells the dash the service has been done. It does not affect the engine, DPF, or any mechanical system. You still need to do the actual service; the reset just clears the reminder.
Does this work on the V6 as well as the 4 cylinder?
Yes. The same procedure works on both the 2.0 TDI 4 cylinder and the 3.0 V6 TDI across all Gen 1 Amarok models (2010–2022).
What years does this service reset apply to?
Gen 1 VW Amarok only, 2010 to 2022. It does not apply to the Gen 2 Amarok (2023 onwards), which has a different instrument cluster and reset procedure.