Spanner light

Q I have 2013 Toyota Yaris with 52,000 miles. It has been serviced by Toyota since new, but recently the spanner light keeps coming on. According to the handbook, this means it needs an oil change, but it had a service just a few months ago at 48,202 miles. Toyota did a diagnostic test and retrieved the error code ‘P252F’, so the mechanics did a forced regeneration and ECU update. Two days later, the spanner light came on again. I took it back and was told this was OK as the ECU was updated and this was normal for a diesel.

Anthony Beasley A As you say your Yaris had a forced regeneration, I am assuming it has the 1.4 D-4D engine. The code ‘P252F’ indicates that the engine oil level is too high. This should be addressed immediately and I would recommend the oil is changed.

The regeneration process on your Toyota is instigated by injecting diesel fuel into the engine during the exhaust stroke. This has a secondary effect of allowing excess fuel to enter the sump and dilute the engine oil, thus reducing its ability to provide sufficient lubrication. Depending on your driving style, the diesel particulate filter may not naturally regenerate – this is often the case when the vehicle is mostly used for short journeys.

The warning light is there for a reason and I would first check the level of the oil to ensure it is not above maximum on the dipstick. If it is below the maximum level, you may have an electronic sensor problem. Either way, the issue does need to be rectified as allowing the engine to run with excess oil in the sump can be detrimental to its longevity, and running with a faulty sensor could prevent you from being alerted to other problems.