Seeing the tire pressure warning light on your dashboard can be frustrating—especially when your tires are already properly inflated. Fortunately, resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) on a Toyota is simple once you know the steps.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to reset the tire pressure sensor on various Toyota models, why the warning light might come on, and how to keep your system working correctly to avoid future alerts.
What Does the Tire Pressure Light Mean?
The tire pressure warning light indicates that one or more tires are significantly underinflated or the TPMS system needs recalibration.
This system helps prevent blowouts, improve fuel efficiency, and increase road safety. The light usually looks like a horseshoe-shaped icon with an exclamation point in the middle.
Common Reasons the TPMS Light Stays On
- One or more tires are underinflated (even slightly)
- The spare tire has low pressure (yes, it’s monitored too in some models)
- You recently rotated or changed your tires
- Seasonal temperature drops have changed tire PSI
- A sensor is malfunctioning or has a dead battery
How to Reset Tire Pressure Sensor on Toyota
The method to reset your TPMS depends on the year and model of your Toyota. Below are general steps that apply to most models like the Toyota Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Highlander, Tacoma, and Prius.
Step-by-Step Reset Using the TPMS Reset Button
This method works for most Toyota models made between 2007 and 2020.
- Turn the ignition to “ON” without starting the engine.
- Locate the TPMS reset button. It’s usually under the dashboard near the steering column or inside the glove box.
- Press and hold the reset button until the tire pressure light blinks slowly three times.
- Release the button and start the engine.
- Drive for 10–30 minutes at speeds above 30 mph to allow the system to recalibrate.
If the light doesn’t turn off after 30 minutes of driving, repeat the process or inspect your tire pressure again.
Don’t See a TPMS Reset Button?
Some newer models use an in-dash menu instead of a reset button.
- Turn the car to “ON” mode without starting the engine.
- Use the steering wheel controls to access the settings menu on the dashboard display.
- Select “Vehicle Settings” > “TPMS” > “Relearn” or “Reset.”
- Follow the prompts to complete the reset.
How to Check Tire Pressure Before Resetting
Before resetting the sensor, make sure all tires are inflated to the correct PSI.
- Use a quality digital or manual tire pressure gauge.
- Check tire pressure when tires are cold—ideally in the morning.
- Compare with your Toyota’s recommended pressure (found on the driver’s side door jamb sticker).
- Inflate or deflate as needed, then perform the TPMS reset process.
What to Do If the TPMS Light Stays On
If the warning light won’t turn off even after resetting, try the following:
- Inspect each tire—including the spare—for punctures or leaks.
- Ensure the tire pressure matches factory recommendations.
- Drive at least 10–30 minutes above 30 mph after resetting.
- Check for aftermarket wheels or sensors that may not communicate with the system.
- Use a TPMS scan tool to check for a faulty sensor.
How to Reset TPMS After Tire Rotation or Replacement
After rotating or replacing tires, the TPMS system may require a fresh calibration.
Follow the same reset button or in-dash instructions listed above. If the light doesn’t go off, visit a tire shop or dealership to reprogram the sensors to match the tire positions.
Can You Drive With the Tire Pressure Light On?
Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended.
Driving with low tire pressure increases the risk of a blowout, reduces fuel efficiency, and causes uneven tire wear. Always inspect and correct the issue as soon as the light comes on.
Pro Maintenance Tip: Check the Battery in the TPMS Sensors
Each TPMS sensor runs on a small built-in battery. These typically last 7–10 years. If your 2010 or older Toyota is still on its original sensors, the battery may have died. You’ll need to replace the sensor module entirely.
A dealership can do this, but many tire shops and online retailers offer replacement sensors at lower costs.
Save Money by Reconditioning Your Car Battery
While you’re fixing your TPMS, don’t forget another common source of dashboard alerts—your car battery. If your battery is weak, don’t replace it just yet.
👉 Check out the New Battery Reconditioning Course and learn how to bring dead batteries back to life at home.
It works for car, hybrid, and even deep-cycle batteries—and it could save you hundreds on replacements.
Real Owner Story: Resetting TPMS on a 2016 RAV4
Andrea from Ohio recently changed her RAV4’s tires for winter. A day later, the TPMS light came on even though the tires were inflated properly. She used the reset button under the dash, drove for 20 minutes, and the light turned off.
“It was easy once I knew where to look. The light bugged me at first, but I didn’t need to go to a shop at all,” she said.
Final Thoughts
Resetting the tire pressure sensor on your Toyota is quick, easy, and often requires no special tools. Whether you use the reset button or digital dashboard, the process helps ensure accurate readings and keeps your vehicle safe.
Always double-check your tire pressures first and make resetting part of your seasonal maintenance routine.