One of the most useful features on your Toyota Corolla is its Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which alerts you if the air pressure in your tires needs adjusting. This advanced system keeps drivers informed of the condition of their tires, allowing them to respond quickly and get the best performance out of their vehicle. To reset your tire pressure light, place your key into the ignition and turn it slightly without starting the car, then hold down on the TPMS reset button until the light flashes three times and let go.
If you’re still feeling unsure, our staff at Dublin Toyota in Dublin, CA, put together this guide explaining how to reset the tire pressure light on a Toyota Corolla so you can feel prepared the next time your tire pressure light comes on. Learn about how the TPMS works and how understanding it can ensure you always have a safe and capable vehicle ready to drive.
Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System
For nearly 15 years, all cars manufactured to be sold in the U.S. are required by law to have a tire pressure monitoring system, or TPMS. On your Toyota, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System uses tiny sensors to keep track of the amount of air pressure in each of your four tires. The system can detect when pressure levels drop below the recommended number for that specific model, and subsequently warn the driver by switching on a light. On your Corolla, the light will appear as an amber-colored exclamation point on your dashboard that’s easy to notice.
Why Is Your Tire Pressure Light On?
There are two primary reasons for your tire pressure light to turn on:
- Weather changes: Sudden changes in weather can have a direct impact on the air pressure in your tires, especially when temperatures drop quickly. The low pressure in the air will reflect in your tires, and if you haven’t kept up with regular tire checks, one of your tires may lose enough air to trigger the sensors in the TPMS.
- Air leak: Air leaks occur when items get lodged into your tires, causing air to leak out. These can be obvious, especially if you run over something large that immediately results in a flat tire, but tiny holes in your tires can release air slowly and trigger the TPMS light seemingly out of nowhere.
Why Is Your Tire Pressure Light Blinking?
A blinking tire pressure light on a Toyota Corolla has a different meaning than when the light simply turns on. This indicates an issue with the tire pressure monitoring system itself. Remember that the TPMS works because there are tiny sensors inside each of your tires, near the inner part of the rim. These sensors run on a battery, so if that battery needs to be replaced, the light flashes. A blinking light can also indicate an issue with the sensors altogether. If the sensors aren’t functioning properly, you can unknowingly drive with low-pressure tires, which can be dangerous. Be aware of the additional warnings lights that can come up on your dashboard as well and when to take care of them, to ensure you have a safe and smooth drive
Under-inflated vs. Inflated Tires
It’s clear that the Toyota TPMS is important for the safe operation of your vehicle, but just how crucial is it for tires to have the right air pressure? Here’s a breakdown of how under-inflated tires compare in performance to ones with the proper amount of pressure:
Under-inflated Tires
If you’ve ever driven a vehicle with low tire pressure, you probably already know that the sensations are the first clue that something’s off. Tires with low pressure have poor traction, which can be dangerous on slippery roads. They also can’t bear the same amount of weight as properly inflated tires, which can cause them to sag and lead to a flat or blowout. The less air tires have, the more work your car has to do to propel your vehicle forward, which leads to poor fuel economy.
Inflated Tires
When a tire has the right amount of air, you can enjoy a much smoother and safer driving experience. Inflated tires last longer, as they undergo less wear and tear thanks to the reduced tread. You can also save money on gas, as inflated tires optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy.
How To Reset Tire Pressure Light on a Toyota Corolla
Here are in-depth steps you can follow to reset the tire pressure light on your Toyota Corolla:
1. Turn Off the Engine
If you notice your tire pressure light come on, park your vehicle in a safe spot and turn the engine off. If you can, adjust the pressure in your tires using the guide on the inside of your driver’s side door as a number reference. You can also schedule a service appointment if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
2. Turn the Vehicle “On”
Next, put your key in the ignition and turn it slightly so that the vehicle enters the “On” position without starting the car. Using the buttons on your steering wheel, navigate to the Settings tab on your dashboard and select “Vehicle Settings.” Press the “OK” button on your steering wheel and then click on “TPWS” to access your vehicle’s warning system.
3. Press and Hold “Set Pressure”
After selecting the “TPWS” button (which replaces the “M” for monitoring with a “W” for warning), navigate to “Set Pressure.” Hold down on your steering wheel’s “OK” button until you see the warning light blink three times. You should then see a “Setting Tire Pressure Warning System” message appear on your information display. This indicates that the reset is complete.
Schedule a Service Appointment at Dublin Toyota
The next time your tires need some air, schedule a service appointment with the experts at Dublin Toyota. Our team of professionals is more than capable of assessing your vehicle’s condition and providing the proper maintenance and care to keep it running at its optimal condition for years to come. Looking to purchase authentic Toyota parts or customize your vehicle? Get in touch with our parts department to learn about our extensive line of OEM products and Toyota accessories. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn about our rotating service, financing, and leasing specials.
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