Easy TPMS Reset: Clear Your TPMS Light with an Autel TPMS Scanner

If your TPMS light is on, don’t ignore it—this is your vehicle’s way of telling you something is wrong with your tire pressure. Learning how to perform a TPMS reset is essential for keeping your tires in top shape and your driving safe.

Whether you're a DIYer or a professional, using the right TPMS scan tool like an Autel TPMS scanner can save you time and stress.

Why Is Your Tire Pressure Light On?

Your vehicle’s TPMS light warns you when one or more tires are underinflated. According to the NTSB, tire-related issues cause over 33,000 accidents annually in the U.S. A proper TPMS reset isn’t just about clearing a light—it’s about restoring safety.

The tire pressure light on the car's dashboard came on.

Understanding TPMS: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Modern vehicles come equipped with a TPMS—mandatory since 2007—that automatically alerts you if tire pressure drops below the recommended level.

Two Types of TPMS:

• Direct TPMS: Uses sensors inside the tire to measure actual pressure.
• Indirect TPMS: Uses ABS wheel speed sensors to detect changes in rolling circumference.

These systems notify your vehicle’s ECU, which triggers the tire pressure warning light on your dashboard.

TPMS is divided into two types: direct and indirect.

What Does the TPMS Light Mean?

• Solid Light: One or more tires are under-inflated.
• Flashing Light: A sensor has failed, or the sensor battery is low.

Before resetting the TPMS light, identify and fix the underlying issue—add air, patch a leak, or replace a bad sensor.

How to Reset the TPMS Light

Once your tires are properly inflated or repaired, use one of the following methods to reset the TPMS light:

Method 1: Use the TPMS Reset Button

If your vehicle has a TPMS reset button:

1.Turn the ignition to the “ON” position.

2.Press and hold the reset button until the TPMS light blinks 3 times.

3.Start the engine.

4.Drive for 20 minutes at highway speed to complete the reset.

Some TPMS reset buttons are on the left side of the steering wheel.

Method 2: Drive and Auto-Reset

For vehicles without a reset button:

• Drive at 50 mph (80 km/h) or faster for 10+ minutes.
• The TPMS system will reset during your next start cycle.

Method 3: Use an OBD2 TPMS Tool (Recommended)

Tools like the Autel TS508WF or Autel MaxiTPMS TS608 allow you to:

• Identify faulty TPMS sensors.
• Program new sensors.
• Perform relearn procedures.
• Clear TPMS warning lights directly via the OBD2 port.

Autel TPMS tools are compatible with most U.S., Asian, and European vehicles and are trusted by professionals and DIYers alike.

Why Use an Autel TPMS Scanner?

If you’re serious about car maintenance, an Autel TPMS scanner is a smart investment. These tools go beyond just reading codes—they provide full TPMS service capabilities.

Key Benefits:

• Faster and more accurate TPMS reset
• Identifies the specific tire or sensor causing the alert
• Supports TPMS relearn and sensor programming
• Works with OE and aftermarket sensors

Autel TPMS scanners deliver fast resets, sensor checks, and relearn support.

Popular options include:

Want to save time and money by diagnosing and resetting TPMS alerts yourself? Consider these Autel tools:

Pro Tire Care Tips to Avoid TPMS Alerts

Keep your TPMS light off and your vehicle safe by following these practices:

• Regularly check tire pressure (at least once a month)
• Use a quality tire gauge—don’t rely solely on gas station air pumps
• Replace tires that are more than 5 years old
• Rotate tires every 6,000 miles and perform a TPMS reset afterward
• Use only OEM-quality TPMS sensors to ensure accurate readings

Final Thoughts

The next time your TPMS light comes on, don’t panic. With the right knowledge and the proper tool—like an Autel TPMS scanner—you can easily perform a TPMS reset and get back on the road safely.

By investing in a reliable TPMS scan tool, you're not just fixing a warning light—you’re protecting your tires, improving fuel efficiency, and ensuring a safer driving experience.