Have you ever inflated your tires only to find that the tire pressure light is still on? This can be frustrating, but don’t worry. Resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is easier than you think.
In this guide, we will show you how to reset the tire pressure light. We will also help you fix common TPMS problems.
Why is My Tire Pressure Light Still On?
Even after inflating your tires, the TPMS light may stay on due to:
- Incorrect Tire Pressure: If you didn’t fill your tires to the correct PSI, the system may not recognize the change.
- Extreme Temperature Changes: Cold weather can temporarily lower tire pressure.
- TPMS Sensor Issues: A dead sensor battery or faulty sensor could cause the light to remain on.
- Tire Rotation or Replacement: Some vehicles require a TPMS recalibration after changing tires.
Understanding TPMS vs. Tire Pressure Light: What’s the Difference?
Many drivers mix up the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and the tire pressure warning light. They are related but are different parts of your vehicle’s safety system.
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is the system that monitors your tire pressure using sensors. It can be direct (with pressure sensors in each wheel) or indirect (using ABS wheel speed data).
- The Tire Pressure Light is the warning indicator on your dashboard that alerts you when one or more tires are underinflated.
How They Work Together
Your TPMS constantly monitors tire pressure levels. If the tire pressure is too low, the warning light on your dashboard will turn on. This usually happens when the pressure is 25% below the recommended PSI.
If the light remains on after inflation, your TPMS sensors may need to be reset or recalibrated. In some cases, you may also need to replace or reprogram TPMS sensors after changing tires.
Expert advice: Instead of going to a dealership for an expensive reset, you can reprogram TPMS sensors yourself. Use the Carista OBD2 scanner. It’s a simple and affordable solution for car owners.
How to Reset Tire Pressure Light: 3 Proven Methods
1. Drive Your Car for 10-15 Minutes
Most modern vehicles will reset the TPMS by themselves. This happens after driving at 50 mph (80 km/h) for about 10 to 15 minutes. If the light doesn’t turn off, try the following methods.
2. Inflate All Tires to the Recommended PSI
- Find your car’s recommended tire pressure (PSI) on the driver’s door sticker or in the owner’s manual.
- Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire.
- Inflate all tires to the correct pressure.
- Don’t forget to check the spare tire—some vehicles include a sensor for it!
3.Use a Diagnostic Tool to Reset a Blinking Tire Pressure Light
If you’re asking, “how do you fix a blinking tire pressure light?”, an OBD2 scanner like Carista can help reset your TPMS system. Here’s how:
- Plug in the Carista OBD2 Scanner. Connect the device to your car’s OBD2 port, which is usually under the dashboard.
- Launch the Carista App – Open the app on your phone and select Diagnostics to scan for TPMS-related errors.
- Check and Register New TPMS Sensor IDs – If your vehicle has new TPMS sensors, go to Service → TPMS. Register them with your car’s ECU.
- Perform a TPMS Relearn Procedure – Select Relearn TPMS to sync the new sensors with your car’s system.
- Drive for Recalibration – Take your car for a short drive to allow the TPMS system to fully reset and clear any warning lights.
Carista OBD2 Scan Tool: The Best TPMS Solution for Car Owners
- Fast & Easy – No need for dealership visits or expensive tools.
- Smartphone Integration – Works seamlessly with the Carista app.
- Cost-Effective – Save money on TPMS sensor programming fees.
- Full Diagnostics – Identify and troubleshoot TPMS issues in minutes.
Get the Carista OBD2 Scanner today and take control of your TPMS system with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About TPMS
1. What happens if I don’t reset my TPMS after changing tires?
If you don’t reset your TPMS after changing tires or sensors, your vehicle may not see the new sensors. This can cause the tire pressure light to stay on or blink. This can prevent you from accurately monitoring your tire pressure and may lead to unnecessary warnings.
2. Can I reprogram TPMS sensors myself?
Yes! With an OBD2 scanner like Carista, you can register new TPMS sensor IDs. You can also do a TPMS relearn procedure without needing professional tools or help from a dealership.
3. Does Carista OBD2 work with all cars for TPMS resets?
Carista supports TPMS functions on some Toyota, and Lexus models, but not all models allow TPMS sensor programming through OBD2. You can check Carista’s compatibility for your specific car model.
4. Will disconnecting the battery reset TPMS?
While disconnecting the car battery may temporarily clear some warning lights, it does not reprogram TPMS sensors. For proper TPMS reset and sensor registration, I recommend using an OBD2 scanner like Carista.
5.How long does it take for TPMS to reset after using Carista OBD2?
After registering new TPMS sensor IDs and performing a TPMS relearn with Carista, the system typically resets within a few minutes. In some cases, you may need to drive for 10-15 minutes at highway speeds to complete the process.
Conclusion
Keeping your TPMS system properly calibrated ensures accurate tire pressure monitoring, improving safety, fuel efficiency, and tire lifespan. If your tire pressure light stays on after you inflate your tires or change the TPMS sensors, you need to reset it.
With the Carista OBD2 scanner, you can easily check TPMS problems. You can also register new TPMS sensor IDs and do a TPMS relearn, all from your smartphone. No need for expensive dealership visits or complex tools—Carista makes TPMS management fast, easy, and affordable.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. We work hard to give you accurate and current information about OBD2 tools, diagnostics, and car issues.
However, details can differ for each vehicle.
**Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines and consider seeking professional assistance when dealing with complex or critical diagnostic issues.