How to Reset the TPMS System

In modern times, most cars come with an integrated TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System). In fact, it’s mandatory to have one in place and that it is functional for your safety’s sake. Most people nowadays are adopting their use because of the significant perks.

Like any automotive component, TPMS may suddenly misbehave and read incorrectly. A faulty TPMS is a cause for alarm, and immediate action is necessary. That’s why learning how to reset the TPMS system is essential for any driver and car owner. 

This article provides a rundown of everything related to resetting TPMS systems. Enjoy your ride confidently, knowing you’re an all-rounded driver. 

In Brief: What is a TPMS

For first-timers, a TPMS system is a tire pressure monitoring system with sensors inserted in all the pneumatic tires of a vehicle. They are categorized as either direct or indirect TPMS types. The direct TPMS is inserted directly into the tire valve system and gives the exact tire pressure, while the indirect version depends on the wheel rotation to discern pressure loss. 

Well, this gadget reads and checks the tire pressure and alerts you when the tire pressure is critically below or above the safe pressure level. Most times, you’ll see a flashing or constant yellow warning light icon. 

The yellow TPMS icon is usually inside the speedometer, and in advanced cars, messages such as “low tire pressure” or “TPMS not working” appear on the infotainment display. It depends on your car model whether you see a light icon and interpret it or receive direct communication through messages. 

The Most Common Reasons for TPMS Alerts

The TPMS alert, a light shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation mark at the center, is for no reason. Seeing one means investigating the issue. It’s important to understand the likely causes so that you’re aware of the problem to search for. 

Low Tire Pressure

If the TPMS is fully functional, it could be informing you that the tire pressure is low. That’s a hint to look for the air compressor at the nearest gas station to fill the tires with air. 

Recent Tire Replacement or Rotation

Replacing your tires with new ones or rotating the already existing tires interferes with the TPMS. The new tires might be over-inflated or not compatible with the car’s axle. 

Even the fixing and unfixing of the tires might dislocate or damage the TPMS sensor. Or simply, the TPMS readings are not aligning with the new tire pressure reading, which demands TPMS resetting. 

TPMS Sensor Issues

Sometimes the TPMS sensor might have stopped working. Only through resetting can you tell if the sensor has an issue or if it was just a calibration problem. A TPMS device can be faulty when its battery dies and needs replacing, or the components have worn out.

Preparations Necessary Prior to The Reset

Before resetting the TPMS, inspect every other cause of the TPMS alerts before concluding that the TPMS is the issue. You might reset the TPMS when there’s much to be done, then proceed to reset the TPMS, which we’re discussing more below.

Check the Tire Pressure

We advise scrutinizing each tire, starting with the front wheels, one by one until you reach the last tire. Use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure level. The figures found indicate whether the tires are properly inflated or need more or less air. Even the spare tire should be checked; some cars have the TPMS sensors on the spare tire, too. 

You’ll cross-check the values against the manufacturer’s recommended PSI in the owner’s manual or on your car’s door placard or sticker. Remember, every car has its own recommended tire pressure specified by the car manufacturer. Let’s say a tire pressure reads 30 PSI, and its safe pressure is 35 PSI; then, you’ll have to amp it up to the expected 35 PSI. 

Inspect the TPMS sensors in The Tires

Also, take your time to check the TPMS sensors in the tires to ensure they are in perfect working condition. Look for physical damage, as they could have dents, cracks, or broken parts during a tire change or rotation. Do the same for your tires. Tires can be cut or punctured, which causes air loss and sudden TPMS light beeps. 

If any defect exists, replace or repair it to tune it back into a functioning state. Once you’re sure the tires are intact and correctly inflated, and the TPMS sensors are operating properly, proceed to carry out TPMS resets as guided in the section coming up next. 

Methods To Reset The TPMS System

There are several methods of resetting the TPMS system. After you’re sure your car’s tires are inflated to the correct air pressure but the lights are still on, reprogram your TPMS as outlined below.

Manual Reset

This method is common in many car models and might as well apply to you. It requires you to reset it yourself since the vehicle is unable to reset itself automatically.

Here are the steps to manually reset the TPMS system:

Step 1: After inflating the tires, drive the car at or within 10-50 mph for at least 10 minutes and, at most, half an hour. Sometimes the TPMS might reset while driving, and if it doesn’t, get on with the next step. 

Step 2: Stop the vehicle and switch the engine off. Then, turn the car keys clockwise to the “on” label function, whereby the car’s electrical system is on, but you haven’t started the car (the engine is off).

Step 3: Check your car’s manual to locate the TPMS reset button. When you find it, long-press the TPMS button until the TPMS flashing light goes off. If it isn’t flashing, press the TPMS button until the yellow light blinks thrice, and then release your finger from the button. 

Drive and Calibrate

Step 4: Drive the car for at least 20 minutes at a consistent speed of around 30mph for the TPMS to reset and reconnect with its sensors. The best bet is to consult the manufacturer’s manual for the most appropriate time and distance to recalibrate the TPMS system, which varies with the car's make and model. 

Step 5: Lastly, turn off the keys and start the car to confirm if the TPMS light is gone. 

Use the Infotainment System

Most sophisticated vehicles operate with the infotainment system to reset the TPMS and not the TPMS reset button, as mentioned earlier. The TPMS is integrated into the infotainment with reset options on the infotainment screen or control panel of the dashboard.

After switching the car on, go to the service menu on the screen using the buttons on the steering wheel. In more tech-inspired cars, you navigate a touchscreen display. Under this menu, select the tire pressure vehicle option. 

Then follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the TPMS reset. The warning light will disappear. In case it lingers, drive for some time to trigger recalibration 

Professional Reset Tools

When the manual and infotainment methods fail, professional reset tools are inevitable. You’ll need to purchase a quality renowned brand or go to the nearest auto repair shop to seek the services of their tools. Before using it, ensure the battery is charged and the tool is working. 

Let the tools manual guide you whenever you’re resetting the TPMS. If you're new to the concept, we recommend involving a mechanic or car expert to accurately reset the TPMS for you using the reset tool. Moreover, it’s important to know your car’s make, model, and year for the reset tool to function as needed.

Troubleshooting TPMS Issues

Persistent TPMS Lighting

If your TPMS light isn’t going off, then that’s a reason to check the sensors in the tires. They might not be responding because they’re damaged. The damage could be corroded parts or visible cracks. This can be resolved through the full replacement of the sensors or replacing the lightly damaged components that are replaceable.

The unending light on the dashboard is also a signal to inspect the tires for punctures or slow leaks. Check the tire pressures as well and examine the tires for any ruptures or if they are too old to hold air, requiring new ones to be bought. 

Inflate the tires if the pressures are low. And if the lights are lingering, reprogram the TPMS calibrations to reread the correct pressure levels. 

Sensor Battery Life 

The sensors failing might be a battery issue. This is a possible TPMS issue after you check your tires, and they’re in good shape. 

5-10 years is the approximate lifespan of TPMS sensor batteries. So if the sensor’s battery age is within that range, test the battery with the TPMS scan tools to determine if the battery is working. Most TPMS sensors come as in-built and sealed components of the TPMS sensor unit, which means you will replace the entire sensor. 

TPMS Not Resetting

There is a high chance you followed the manual’s reset instructions incorrectly. Or maybe you missed a step, so you will redo the entire process to see if the TPMS will properly reset. 

Seek professional help from mechanics and auto repair shops in situations beyond your control, like when the TPMS light fails to go off, no matter the remedy. Additionally, any need for replacement should involve a car expert or the manufacturer if possible and if there are any indicators of more serious system malfunctions.

Prompt Tips for Maintaining Your TPMS System

Before we come to the end, it’s important to learn these simple hacks to prolong the life of your TPMS system:

• Regularly check your car’s tire pressures and adjust when necessary prior to embarking on journeys

• Inspect both the tires’ and sensors’ condition during replacements and rotations

• Schedule periodic maintenance checks for the TPMS system to discover premature damages in good time. 

The Bottomline

TPMS systems ensure passenger and driver safety; therefore, keeping them in tip-top shape is crucial. Resetting the TPMS recalibrates it to align with the current tire condition and functionality. 

When the TPMS is operating normally, it makes it convenient to know when to inflate or inspect your vehicle’s tires. This helps avoid dire occurrences like tire bursts and preventable accidents. Not to forget, whenever you reset the TPMS, always consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or an automotive professional for expert guidance.