alright so this problem happened a few days a go and i cant get it i just bought this 98 honda accord off the original owner has 218XXX miles on it and the miantenance light stays on before i even start the car the car isnt misfiring theres no vaccum leaks i was thinkin maybe its fuel filter i jus need some help plz

 

The maintenance light turns on at a set mileage (or interval) to get a service done (like oil change, spark plugs, etc...). This is a reminder to look in the owner's manual to see what maintenance should be done.

To reset the maintenance light, start with the key turned off. Push the select switch and reset switch at the same time. Turn the key to the II position (don't start the car), and hold the two switches for 10 more seconds.

The light should just turn off, or blink and turn off.

Now if this is the check engine light that is turning on, then that is a completely different issue.

 

i pulled the spark plugs and they have white residue on there

 

What do you mean by that? The "maintenance" lamp is simply a mileage reminder. It does absolutely no functional testing, it's just hooked up to the odometer.

1) Key OFF.
2) Press & hold the odometer reset button.
3) While continuing to hold that reset button, turn the key ON.
4) Continue holding that reset button for about 20 seconds more - don't let go.
5) Lamp will flash a few times then turn off. Until another 7500 miles it'll come back on.

PS... if the sparkplugs need to be replaced, go for it. Use NGK or Denso. I think they are supposed to be replaced every 100k miles or so.