How To Reset Your Tire Pressure Light(Button Location + Relearn Guide)

If you drive a modern vehicle, it likely comes equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This system is designed to alert you when the air pressure in one or more of your tires is below or above the recommended level, helping to keep you safe on the road.

Maintaining the correct tire pressure not only enhances safety and traction but also improves fuel efficiency and extends tire life.

But what if the TPMS light stays on even after you’ve adjusted your tire pressure? In many cases, you may need to reset the TPMS to clear the warning.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do when your tire pressure light won’t turn off, and what it could mean if the TPMS light is flashing.

What To Do When Your TPMS Light Comes On

When the TPMS light illuminates on your dashboard, it typically signals that the pressure in one or more tires is outside the recommended range. Driving with under-inflated or over-inflated tires can lead to:

Reduced safety and compromised handling, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Lower fuel efficiency, as improperly inflated tires increase rolling resistance.

Accelerated tire wear, which can shorten your tires’ lifespan.

If your TPMS light comes on, the first step is to check each tire's pressure (including the spare if it has a sensor) and adjust it according to the recommended pressure found in your vehicle’s manual or on the sticker inside the driver’s door frame.

If your tire pressures are correct but the light remains on, try these steps to reset the TPMS.

Pro Tip: In some European vehicle manuals (like BMW or Mercedes), the reset process is referred to as "Adjust tyre pressure and reinitialise." If your dashboard displays this message, it simply means the system needs you to confirm the current air pressure as the new "baseline" after you've filled the tires.

Why Is My Tire Pressure Light On When Tires Are Fine?

It’s common for drivers to see the TPMS light even when all tires appear properly inflated. This happens because the warning system does not only monitor current air pressure — it also tracks sensor signals, temperature changes, and system calibration.

Here are the most common reasons:

Temperature drop
Air pressure decreases as temperatures fall (about 1 PSI for every 10°F drop). Your tires may look “normal,” but the system may detect pressure just below the stored baseline.
Recent tire rotation
If tires were rotated and the TPMS system wasn’t relearned, the vehicle may display the wrong tire position or trigger a warning.
Sensor battery aging
TPMS sensors have internal batteries that typically last 5–10 years. A weak battery can cause inaccurate readings even if pressure is correct.
Slow or small leaks
A tiny nail, bead leak, or valve stem issue may not be obvious but can cause slight pressure loss over time.
System not recalibrated after inflation
Some vehicles require you to reset or “reinitialize” the system after adjusting tire pressure so it can store the new values as normal.

If your tire pressures are confirmed correct but the light remains on, a TPMS reset or sensor diagnostic is usually required.

How to Reset or Erase TPMS Light (Works for Most Vehicles)

Quick Fix Summary:

If you’re wondering how to reset the TPMS light, the process usually involves three basic steps:

1. Inflate all tires to the correct pressure
2. Turn the ignition ON (engine off)
3. Trigger the system reset (drive, reset button, or scan tool relearn)

After resetting, drive the vehicle briefly so the system can recalibrate.

⚠️ Important: TPMS reset procedures vary by manufacturer. Some vehicles reset automatically after driving, while others require a reset button or scan tool relearn. If the light stays on after these steps, your vehicle may require a model-specific relearn procedure.

Step-by-Step Methods to Reset TPMS Light

Here are several methods to try if your TPMS light won’t turn off after confirming all tires are properly inflated.

Method 1: Drive Your Vehicle at a Moderate Speed

Often, simply driving your vehicle can reset the TPMS sensors. Here’s how:

Drive at around 50 mph for approximately 10 minutes, preferably on a safe, open road where you can maintain a steady speed.

After your drive, turn off the car and restart it to check if the TPMS light has turned off.

This method works because many TPMS systems recalibrate themselves after the vehicle has been driven at a moderate speed. If this doesn’t work, move on to the next method.

Method 2: Use the TPMS Reset Button

Some vehicles have a TPMS reset button. This button is often located under the steering wheel, in the glove compartment, or near the center console. To reset the TPMS using this button, follow these steps:

Turn the key to the “On” position without starting the engine.

Hold down the TPMS reset button until the TPMS light begins to flash, which usually takes a few seconds.

Release the button and start the engine. The TPMS light should turn off if the tire pressures are correct.

If the TPMS light stays on, you may need to repeat the process. This method works well for many vehicles equipped with a reset button, as it allows you to manually prompt the system to recalibrate.

Where Is the TPMS Reset Button Located?

The TPMS reset button is not present in all vehicles, but when it exists, it’s usually found in one of these places:

- Beneath the steering wheel
- Inside the glove compartment
- Near the center console
- On the dashboard panel

Some vehicles do not use a physical button at all. Instead, the reset is done through the infotainment screen menu or happens automatically after driving.

If your vehicle does not have a reset button, it likely uses an automatic relearn system, meaning the TPMS light should turn off after driving once the tire pressures are correct.

Method 3: Inflate and Deflate Your Tires in Sequence

If the first two methods don’t work, try this approach, which involves slightly over-inflating and then deflating each tire. This can sometimes reset stubborn TPMS sensors.

Inflate each tire to 3 PSI above the recommended level. This slight overinflation can help the sensors recalibrate.

Deflate each tire completely, including the spare tire if it has a TPMS sensor. Make sure all tires are fully deflated.

Reinflate each tire to the correct pressure. Be precise, as proper inflation is crucial for safe driving.

Start your vehicle and drive for a few minutes to see if the TPMS light resets.

This method helps recalibrate the sensors, especially if they were triggered by an imbalance.

Method 4: Check the Spare Tire’s Pressure

Some vehicles have a TPMS sensor on the spare tire. If the spare tire’s pressure is low, it can trigger the TPMS light, even if your main tires are properly inflated. Here’s what to do:

Check the pressure of your spare tire. The recommended PSI level is usually on the tire itself or in your vehicle’s manual.

Inflate the spare tire to the recommended pressure if it’s low.

Start the vehicle and drive for a few minutes to allow the system to recognize the correct pressure.

If the spare tire was the issue, the TPMS light should turn off after a short drive.

Method 5:How to Activate or Relearn New TPMS Sensors Without a Tool

you've just replaced a sensor and don't have a professional activation tool, you can try the Stationary Relearn (often called the "Train" mode) used by many Ford and GM vehicles:

Enter Relearn Mode: For many cars, this involves cycling the ignition from OFF to RUN 3 times, ending in RUN.
Listen for the Horn: The car will honk once to signal it’s in training mode.
The Air Pressure Trick: Start with the driver-side front tire. Let air out of the tire (or add air) for about 5-10 seconds until the horn chirps. This chirping means the sensor is activated and synced.
Repeat: Do this for the passenger front, passenger rear, and driver rear in that specific order.
Final Step: Once all sensors are recognized, turn the ignition OFF and refill all tires to the correct PSI.

Do You Need to Reset or Replace TPMS After New Tires?

When installing new tires, TPMS sensors usually do not need to be replaced unless they are damaged or their batteries are near the end of life.

However, a reset or relearn procedure is often required so the system can recognize sensor positions and store new pressure baselines.

Situations where action is needed:

Tire rotation without relearn → system may show wrong tire position
Sensor damaged during tire mounting → replacement required
Sensor battery older than 5–7 years → proactive replacement recommended

Most vehicles can relearn sensors through driving, a reset button, or a scan tool procedure.

Method 6: Use an Automotive Scan Tool

If none of the previous methods work, an automotive scan tool can be an effective way to reset the TPMS light. Professional TPMS scan tools are used by mechanics and some vehicle owners to diagnose and clear TPMS-related issues directly. Here’s how to use it:

Connect the automotive scan tool to your vehicle’s OBD-II port, which is usually located under the dashboard.

Turn the ignition to the “On” position without starting the engine.

Use the scan tool to navigate to the TPMS reset or “Relearn” option, which can clear any TPMS warnings.

Once the reset is complete, start the vehicle and check if the TPMS light has turned off.

An automotive scan tool is particularly useful if the TPMS light is on due to a sensor error that needs diagnostic confirmation. It provides a more precise and reliable way to reset the system, especially for vehicles with persistent TPMS issues.

Why TPMS Light May Not Reset？

If your TPMS light does not turn off after resetting, the issue may not be tire pressure. Common causes include:

- Dead TPMS sensor battery
- Recently replaced sensor not relearned
- Tire rotation without sensor retraining
- Faulty wheel sensor or communication error

In these cases, a scan tool with TPMS relearn capability is required.

Real-World Case: When Tire Pressure Is Fine but the Light Stays On

Many drivers experience a situation where the tire pressure warning light remains on even after all tires are properly inflated. A discussion from a Hyundai Elantra owner on Reddit highlights how confusing this can be.

In that case, the driver’s TPMS light kept turning on during cold weather, even though tire pressure readings were correct. After multiple checks, the real cause turned out to be a tiny nail causing a slow leak — small enough that normal pressure checks didn’t immediately reveal the problem, but enough for the TPMS sensor to detect gradual pressure loss.

Other drivers in the same discussion suggested additional causes that commonly trigger persistent TPMS lights:

A weakening or failing TPMS sensor battery
Sensors not recalibrated after tire rotation
Pressure slightly below threshold during temperature drops
System needing a manual reset or relearn
Rarely, sensor signal interference

This example shows that a TPMS light staying on does not always mean the pressure is currently low — it may indicate a sensor issue, a slow leak, or a system calibration problem.

Source: Real user discussion from Reddit automotive community.

Why Your TPMS Light Stays On: Diagnostic Code Guide

If manual reset methods fail, your vehicle is signaling a hardware issue. Using an OBD-II scanner (Method 6) can identify the exact problem:

C0700 – General TPMS Malfunction: The system detects an internal error.
C0710 – Tire Pressure Sensor Fault: This often indicates a dead sensor battery (typically lasts 5–10 years).
P1212 – Communication Lost: The vehicle’s computer cannot "hear" the signal from a specific tire.

What To Do If the TPMS Light Is Flashing

A flashing TPMS light is different from a steady one. If the TPMS light is flashing, it often indicates a malfunction in one of the sensors rather than just a low-pressure warning. Common causes include:

Low sensor battery: TPMS sensors have built-in batteries that typically last 5–10 years. When these batteries are low, the sensors may malfunction.
Sensor malfunction: The sensor may need to be replaced if it’s no longer working properly.

If you’ve tried all the reset methods and the TPMS light continues to flash, it’s best to consult a professional. A flashing TPMS light often indicates that a sensor needs to be replaced, which a technician can handle with the appropriate tools.

Related reading：Top 3 Best TPMS Tools to Buy in 2026

Why It’s Important to Address TPMS Light Issues

Ignoring a TPMS warning light can lead to unsafe driving conditions. Here are some reasons why it’s essential to keep your TPMS system working correctly:

Safety: Proper tire pressure ensures better handling and control, reducing the risk of tire-related incidents, especially at high speeds or in slippery conditions.
Fuel Efficiency: Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and costing you more at the pump.
Tire Longevity: Maintaining the correct pressure helps prevent uneven tire wear, extending the lifespan of your tires and saving you money in the long run.

Regularly checking your tire pressure and keeping an eye on the TPMS light will help ensure that you’re driving safely and efficiently.

By following these steps, including using an automotive scan tool if necessary, you can take control of your TPMS system and ensure that your tires are always at the optimal pressure. Proper tire maintenance not only extends the life of your tires but also enhances your safety on the road.

If your TPMS light persists despite trying these methods, consider consulting a professional to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in modern vehicles helps keep drivers safe by alerting them when tire pressure is outside the optimal range. If the TPMS light stays on after adjusting tire pressure, a reset may be necessary.

This guide covers multiple methods for resetting the TPMS light, from taking a short drive to using the TPMS reset button, adjusting tire pressure manually, or using an automotive scan tool for more precise diagnostics.

Addressing TPMS warnings is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. If the light flashes, it may indicate a faulty sensor that requires professional attention. Proper tire maintenance ensures safer, more efficient driving, extending the life of your tires.

FAQs

Where is the TPMS reset position?

The TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) reset button is usually located beneath the steering wheel, on the dashboard, or within the glove compartment. Check your vehicle’s manual for the exact location.

Does tire pressure light reset on its own?

In some cases, the tire pressure light resets on its own after the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. However, if it doesn’t, you may need to manually reset it using the TPMS reset button.

Where is my TPMS located?

The TPMS sensors are located inside each tire, typically attached to the valve stem or mounted within the wheel. The system monitors tire pressure and sends data to your vehicle’s dashboard.

How do I erase the tire pressure light?

To erase the tire pressure light, inflate all tires to the correct PSI, then reset the TPMS system by driving, using the reset button, or performing a relearn with a scan tool. “Erase” simply means resetting the warning light.

Can Cold Weather Trigger the TPMS Light?

Yes — cold weather is one of the most common causes of TPMS warnings.

Air contracts when temperatures drop, which reduces tire pressure naturally. Even if your tires were properly inflated during warm weather, a cold morning can lower pressure enough to trigger the warning light.

This does not necessarily mean you have a leak. Instead, it indicates the pressure has fallen below the vehicle’s programmed threshold.

What to do:

Check tire pressure when tires are cold
Inflate to the recommended PSI listed on the driver’s door sticker
Drive the vehicle to allow the system to recalibrate
Reset the TPMS if your vehicle requires manual confirmation

If the light returns repeatedly after inflation, a slow leak or sensor issue may be present.

Is It Safe to Drive With the TPMS Light On?

It depends on the cause. If the light is on due to slightly low pressure, you can usually drive short distances safely — but tire pressure should be corrected as soon as possible. Driving with under-inflated tires reduces handling, increases tire wear, and lowers fuel efficiency.

If the TPMS light is flashing, it indicates a system malfunction rather than a pressure issue. In this case, the system cannot monitor tire safety properly, and the vehicle should be inspected soon.

Driving long-term with the TPMS warning ignored is not recommended.

Is TPMS the Same as the Tire Pressure Light?

Not exactly. TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is the complete electronic system that monitors tire pressure using sensors inside each wheel.

The tire pressure light is simply the dashboard warning symbol that alerts you when the TPMS detects a problem. In other words:

TPMS = the system
Tire pressure light = the warning indicator