The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is an essential safety feature in your car. It alerts you when air pressure drops below the recommended range in one or more tires. Ideally, the warning light should stay off when everything is okay. But, it may still pop up even when your tires are full of air. This then calls for the need to know how to turn off service tire monitor system light.
The warning light could be a sign that there’s a leak in one or more tires. It could also be an indication that your tires are reacting to changes in temperature and weather. In case of the former, you’ll need to drive to a service center and have the tires replaced or patched up. If everything is okay and you’re sure there’s no leak, the warning light could show up due to another problem that you’ll need to fix first.
Can you turn off tire pressure monitoring system?
No, you cannot disable or turn off your tire pressure monitoring system. The TPMS is a requirement by law in the U.S. in all cars made after 2008. However, if you’re wondering why is my tire pressure light still on after filling the tires, or why your tire pressure light is blinking, it’s possible to reset it to turn it off.
Related: What Does Tire Pressure Sensor Fault Mean?
How to reset your tire pressure sensor light
You can use either of these tips to reset the TPMS light after you’ve inflated your tires.
1. Drive the car then switch it off
Drive your car for 10 minutes maintaining a speed of 50 mph (80 kph) and switch it off once the drive is over. This should help reset your tire pressure sensor and as a result, stop the light on the dashboard from illuminating the next time you start the vehicle. If this doesn’t work, move to the second solution below.
2. Use the TPMS Button
Turn your ignition key to the “ON” position without cranking the motor. Locate the TPMS reset button below the steering wheel. Refer to your car owner’s manual to find out if your car has one.
Press and hold the reset button until the TPMS light blinks thrice, then release it. Start the vehicle and let it idle for 20 minutes. This should help reset the TPMS sensor, hence, turning off the TPMS light.
3. Inflate and deflate your tires
Inflate all the tires to 3 PSI above the required air pressure, then deflate them until they are all flat. You can do the same with the spare tire as it may have a sensor installed. Re-inflate the tires to the correct PSI. This should do the trick. But, if it doesn’t work, move to the fourth solution.
4. Drain the battery
Switch off your car, pop the hood, and disconnect the positive battery terminal. Get back into the car and turn the ignition key to the ON position. Honk the horn for three seconds to drain the battery. Reconnect the battery and check if the TPMS light is now off.
5. Use the driver’s information panel
For some vehicles like those made by GM, you can reset the TPMS light by going through the options on the driver’s information panel. You’ll need to navigate through the panel to access the TPMS system. Press the tpms reset button either in relation to a specific tire that is bringing up the dashboard light or in relation to all the tires.
What does a flashing tire pressure light mean?
It’s normal for your TPMS light to blink when you start the vehicle. It should go off after a few seconds. In fact, many vehicles are designed to flash the entire dashboard on startup. However, if the TPMS light continues to flash even when you’re driving, the sensor(s) could have a problem, or their battery could be dead.
You’ll need to check the TPMS sensor and replace it with a new reprogrammed tire sensor ready to be paired with your vehicle. Remember to schedule a service appointment with a local service center to have everything else checked.
What happens if I ignore my low tire pressure light?
The TPMS light is one of those dashboard lights that shouldn’t be ignored. It tells you when your tires are underinflated. Some of the dangers of having underinflated tires include:
- Unpredictable vehicle handling
- Reduced tire lifespan due to uneven wear and tear
- Reduced fuel economy
- Increased chances of a blowout due to sidewall damage
Read more: How to Quickly Fix a Flat Tire On A Car
What is the recommended tire pressure?
The recommended tire pressure for most vehicles is 30-35 PSI. Tire pressure is the measurement of how much force is exerted on a certain area by a tire. It is measured in pounds per square inch, abbreviated as ‘PSI’.
The recommended range varies depending on the class of vehicle you drive and the type of tires you use. Larger vehicles and trucks with low-profile tires have a higher recommended tire pressure. Another factor considered is driving activities. When driving off-road, it is recommended that you deflate your tires for better performance.
Conclusion
If you need to turn off your TPMS light, you can use the tips above on how to reset your service tire monitor system light. If the tips don’t work, visit your local auto repair shop and have them take a look.
FAQ
What kind of TPMS do I have?
There are mainly two types of TPMS systems – direct and indirect TPMS. Direct TPMS uses a tire sensor that communicates to the car’s computer when tire pressure falls below a certain percentage. This then activates the TPMS light on your dash. Indirect TPMS uses the antilock braking system (ABS) which detects changes in tire speed when air pressure is low.
Can I drive my car with the TPMS light on?
No. The TPMS light turns on when tire pressure drops below the recommended level. Driving with your tire pressure light blinking can cause safety risks. Underinflated or overinflated tires can result in premature wear and tear, tire failure, and blowouts.
How much does it cost to service tire monitor?
The cost of servicing your tire pressure monitor system ranges between $50 and $250. This depends on the time taken to check and reset the system, the tools used, the type of vehicle owned, and whether the tire pressure sensors need to be replaced.
Read more: How to Remove a Valve Stem in Your Tire
