How To Reset Tire Pressure Sensor? Way To Turn Off The Light

When your TPMS light is illuminated on your car’s dashboard, it may be time to reset the tire pressure monitoring system. The tire pressure sensor reset process can be done quickly and easily with the right tools and a little bit of know-how.

I’ll walk you through the steps to get your vehicle back on the road with the confidence of properly inflated tires.

What To Do Before Resetting The Light?

Let’s say your TPMS warning light does illuminate. In this case, locate the nearest gas station or service center and check the pressure in all four tires (plus the spare, if necessary).

That’s why I always bring a pressure gauge and a bike pump along on long trips in case of emergencies. Then, pump air to any tire that is under the recommended PSI indicated on a label inside the driver’s door.

After a few miles of driving, the light may turn off once the tires are adequately inflated. But the TPMS needs to be reset if the light doesn’t turn off automatically after traveling for roughly 10 miles.

How To Turn Off The Tire Pressure Light? Reset The Sensor 

After trying the above method but in vain, do the following steps to switch off the light:

Step 1: Insert the key and turn it to the “on” position without starting the engine.

Step 2: Find the reset button on your car. It’s usually located under the steering wheel, but it can be in different places depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Step 3: Press and hold the reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times. This indicates that the sensor has been reset.

Step 4: Turn off the ignition and wait at least three minutes for the changes to take effect.

What Does The Tire Pressure Sensor Light Tell You?

Besides warning of the improper PSI, the TPMS light may act in a variety of ways. Here is what it means in certain cases, and I will dive deeper into the causes in the next part.

• It is perpetually on: This could mean that there is insufficient air pressure in one or more of your tires. If you’ve already established that this isn’t the issue, it may indicate that the TPMS sensor is malfunctioning.
• It remains on after blinking for a while: When you turn on the engine, you can see the TPMS light flash for a while then remain on permanently. This means you need to schedule a visit with your local repair shop right away.
• It sometimes switches on and off: The light flashing on and off at random may be a sign that weather or other factors are changing the tire pressure reading. No need to be concerned because this is a common occurrence. Even though it might not be important in the long run, check for the proper air pressure again once winter ends.

Why Your Tire Pressure Sensor Light Comes On

The tire pressure sensor light in your car may come on for a variety of reasons, including changes in temperature, tire rotations, damage to the sensor, and low tire pressure.

Temperature Change

As the temperature fluctuates, the air inside your tires expands and contracts, which can cause the tire pressure to change. If the temperature drops suddenly, the air in your tires will contract, causing the tire pressure to drop.

Similarly, when the temperature rises quickly, the air in your tires will expand, which can lead to overinflated tires. As a result, your vehicle’s tire pressure sensor may be triggered, and the warning light will be illuminated on your dashboard.

Tire Rotations

When the tire pressure is not equal on all tires after a rotation, the tire pressure sensor may detect this as an issue and activate the dashboard warning light. Additionally, suppose a tire is underinflated due to a slow leak or other problem. In this case, rotating the tire to a different position can cause the sensor to detect the issue and trigger the light.

Damage Sensor

Let’s say the sensor is damaged; it may send incorrect or inconsistent readings to your vehicle’s computer, switching on the warning light on your dashboard. 

Damage can occur from a number of causes, including impacts from road hazards, corrosion from exposure to moisture and salt, or even just normal wear and tear.

Low Tire Pressure

When your tire pressure drops below the manufacturer’s recommended level, it can cause your tire pressure sensor to detect an issue and trigger the check light. Low tire pressure can stem from a number of factors, including punctures, leaks, or just normal air loss over time.

It’s important to address low tire pressure promptly, as driving on underinflated tires can be dangerous and cause your tires to wear unevenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Is The TPMS Reset Button?

The location of the button can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In some cars, it may be located under the steering wheel, while in others, it may be on the dashboard or near the center console. To find the control for your specific vehicle, refer to the owner manual or consult with a professional mechanic.

Why Won’t My Tire Pressure Light Go Off Even Though The Pressure Is Fine?

The tire pressure light may not go off even if the pressure is fine due to a faulty TPMS sensor, low sensor battery, interference with other sensors, or a malfunction in the TPMS system.

Will Tire Pressure Reset Itself?

It depends on the car model. Some automobiles have TPMS lights that automatically reset themselves after a short distance of driving following reinflation and turn off the TPMS warning light.

The Bottom Line

Turning off the TPMS light is a straightforward process that can help you quickly address any issues with your tire pressure and ensure safe driving. Follow my steps, and you can reset your tire sensor on your own and avoid unnecessary trips to the mechanic or dealership.

Remember to regularly monitor the PSI and address any issues promptly to prevent potential safety hazards and costly damage to your vehicle.