The TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light comes on when a tire is low, after a tire rotation, or when a sensor battery dies. Here is how to reset it on every major brand.
A TPMS light that stays on at correct pressure usually means a dead sensor battery ($60-$120 per sensor) or a sensor that needs to be relearned after rotation.
The most common cause. Check all four tires with a gauge and inflate to the door jamb spec. The light usually turns off within a few miles of driving once pressure is correct.
Some cars require a relearn after rotating tires. The procedure varies by brand - often holding a TPMS button or driving for 15-20 minutes.
TPMS sensors last 5-10 years. Once the battery dies the sensor must be replaced - it is sealed and not serviceable.
Tires lose about 1 PSI per 10 degrees F. A cold snap can drop you below the warning threshold even though nothing is wrong. Re-inflate.
Some cars monitor the spare. If pressure drops there, the light comes on but you have no clue why because all four road tires are fine.
| What You Notice | Likely Diagnostic Step |
|---|---|
| Light came on suddenly | Check all four tires plus spare with a gauge |
| Light flashes 60-90 seconds then stays solid | TPMS system fault - sensor or receiver |
| Light on after cold morning | Cold weather pressure drop, add air |
| Light on after rotation | Needs relearn procedure for your brand |
Tell us your car and the symptoms - light pattern, recent service, weather - and we will tell you if it is just air, a relearn, or a dead sensor.
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First check tire pressures and set to spec. Drive 10-20 minutes. If the light stays on, the relearn procedure varies by brand - usually a button under the dash, in the menu, or a pedal sequence.
Most likely a dead sensor battery or a sensor that did not relearn after rotation. Have a shop scan the sensors.
5-10 years depending on driving and climate. Once the battery dies the whole sensor must be replaced.
$60-$120 per sensor plus $20-$30 install per wheel (the tire must come off the rim). All four typically run $300-$500.
In most US states, an illuminated TPMS light fails state inspection. Some states allow disabling but most require working sensors.
Flashing then solid means a system fault - sensor failure, receiver issue, or interference. Solid means pressure is low. Scan with a TPMS tool to confirm.