How to Reset the Tire Pressure Light

📋 Quick Facts

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) lights up when any tire reads more than 25% below the placard pressure. Just airing the tires back up does not always clear the light - some systems need a manual reset or a relearn drive.

🛠 What You'll Need

• Tire pressure gauge (digital tire pressure gauge on Amazon)
• Source of air - gas station or compressor (12V tire inflator on Amazon)
• Owner's manual (TPMS reset procedure)
• Optional: TPMS relearn tool for some cars (TPMS relearn tool on Amazon)

✅ Before You Start - Checklist

• Park on level, solid ground (no slopes, no soft dirt)
• Engine is at the correct temperature (cold or warm as specified)
• All tools and parts on hand BEFORE you begin
• Owner's manual nearby for torque specs and locations
• Safety: gloves, eye protection if needed, hood propped open

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, fix the actual pressureCheck all four tires (and spare on some cars) with a gauge. Inflate to the door-sticker PSI when cold. A 5-PSI low tire is the most common trigger.
2. Drive 10 minutes at 25+ mphOn most modern cars, the TPMS auto-resets after driving - typically 10 minutes at speeds over 20-25 mph. Try this first.
3. If light persists, find the TPMS reset buttonLook under the dashboard near the steering column, in the glove box, or on the center console. The button is labeled "TPMS" or "SET" with a tire icon.
4. Toyota / Lexus reset procedureIgnition to ON (engine off). Press and hold the TPMS reset button (under steering column) until the dash TPMS light blinks 3 times. Drive 30 minutes at 30+ mph.
5. Honda / Acura reset procedureThrough the dashboard menu: Menu → Customize Settings → TPMS Calibration → Calibrate → Yes. Then drive normally for 30 minutes. Some models have a physical button under the steering column.
6. Ford reset procedureIgnition ON, engine off. Turn the headlight switch on/off 3 times, then press the brake pedal 3 times. Light flashes - system is in learn mode. Drive 30 minutes.
7. GM / Chevy / GMC reset procedure (Buick, Cadillac too)Ignition ON. Hold the Lock and Unlock buttons on the keyfob simultaneously for 5 seconds. Horn beeps. Then with TPMS tool or by deflating each tire in order (LF, RF, RR, LR), the system relearns each sensor.
8. Nissan / Infiniti reset procedureDrive 10 minutes - most models auto-reset. If not, use a TPMS relearn tool or dealer scan tool.
9. Hyundai / Kia reset procedureMost autocalibrate after 10-20 minutes of driving. If light persists, dealer or shop relearn is needed.
10. If light returns within a dayA tire is slowly leaking. Common: nail in the tread, bad valve stem, or porous wheel. Spray each tire with soapy water and look for bubbles to find the leak.

✅ After You Finish - Verify Checklist

• No tools left in the engine bay or under the car
• Test the system you worked on (start, drive, check, etc.)
• Look for leaks or drips after 5 minutes of running
• Record the date and mileage in your service log
• Recycle or properly dispose of any old parts/fluids

🔗 Related Guides

❓ Frequently Asked Questions