Where Is the Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System Reset Button Hidden?

Work for Torque News, follow on Twitter, Youtube and Facebook.

Many Toyotas on the road today use a reset button to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). We show you where it is and how to use it.

Like all modern cars, trucks, and crossovers, Toyotas have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). TPMS has been mandated by the U.S. government since 2007, but many vehicles had systems prior to the rule's implementation. The mandate came about after Ford Explorers were found to be flipping over at an alarming rate. Ford and the tire manufacturer Ford used at the time pointed fingers at one another over who was to blame for the safety issue. In the end, the Explorer changed its suspension design, the tire manufacturer changed its tread adhesion quality control, and the motoring public got a new system they may or may not have ever needed.

How Does TPMS Work?
The TPMS system in your car monitors the pressure in your tires in one of two ways. The simplest and most common system on earlier vehicles equipped with this technology was to use the anti-lock braking system sensors to monitor the speed at which each of the car's four wheels was turning. If one was turning slower, the system would put out a warning. If you have a 2007 Highlander your crossover likely has this system. Our image is from that model and year.
- Related Story - Is Your TPMS Light On? Here's Why

The second type of TPMS system uses a sensor in each wheel, and in some cases the spare. It directly measures the pressure of the air within the wheel and if any of them drop below the set points an alarm is signaled.

The problem is that if one changes their tires or if the air temperature drops rapidly, the TPMS light can come on. Or, it can come on if there is indeed a flat. How does one reset that light after the issue if resolved, or if it is a false alarm, like after a new set of tires are put on?
- Related Story From 2011 - Toyota recalls vehicles over TPMS risks

Where Is the Toyota TPMS Button?
For Toyota, Lexus and Scion models made between about 2001 and 2010 (that have this system), there is a small button like the one shown. It is located way down under the steering column at the very bottom of the vehicle's dash assembly. It is almost better to start at the brake and power pedals and start to look upward to find it. On newer models, the reset is usually done via the infotainment system menus. (How to reset TPMS on Page 2)

How To Use The Reset Button
For Toyotas with the system, the button has two functions. To temporarily shut off the dashboard warning light one can touch and hold the button while the vehicle is running. To reset the system, the usual process is to park, put on the parking brake, turn the engine to the "on" position, not to be confused with "run," touch the button till it goes out, then let go and then hold it in again until it flashes the dash light three times. Check your manual if that is not the solution, and be sure you don't actually have a low tire of course. The system then initializes over the next 100 miles or so and you should be all set. For newer models follow the on-screen prompts to reset the system or refer to your manual.

Submitted by Marisa C. Andrade (not verified) on November 21, 2018 - 7:07PM

Permalink

Where is the reset button on my 2011 Toyota, can’t seem to find it exactly Help!! Getting very impatient

Submitted by Bob H (not verified) on January 19, 2019 - 11:04AM

Permalink

THANK YOU! Your comment advising that some Toyotas have TMPS in the spare time was a lifesaver <figuratively>. After ensuring that all four tires were properly inflated and driving for a bit, our TMPS indicator light remained solid amber. Was about ready to visit Discount Tire (where we purchased replacement rubber) or Toyota ($92/hour shop rate) when I searched for TMPS reset button for Toyotas. Was surprised that out '12 Avalon Limited has a full size spare tire with TPMS. Initial pressure was 28. Once inflated to 35psi, the indicator light went out. Again, thanks for the technical advice!!!!!

Submitted by Harris (not verified) on April 8, 2019 - 6:10PM

Permalink

Where is the TMPS for my Toyota Corola. I have checked the tires but all are at exact pressure but the light stays on. Thank you for all your help. Great service

Submitted by BleuJay (not verified) on September 17, 2019 - 12:32AM

Permalink

After an EXTENSIVE search of my 2010 Rav4 Limited, I have come to the conclusion that a TMPS button was never installed in my vehicle. That being said, however, there does appear to be a SPACE for said button immediately to the right of the under-dashboard fuse box. I will be willing to bet all of your cars have this same rectangular_ opening.

Freaken' wunerful, ain't it.

Yep. Looked allover for the darn thing. Owners manual mentions button but doesn't tell/show location. Even used a flash light. Aggravating and hate to go todealer. My 2006 Highlander has it, 2009 Rav4 hidden..

Submitted by steve b (not verified) on October 6, 2019 - 1:07PM

Permalink

The tech that wrote the article is correct. I looked at all the spots to find the stupid reset switch, on my 2015 rav4 limited, Had to twist myself under the column, with a flash light and Walla! there it was, Hidden above the brake pedal. Owners manual shows it on the knee bolster. Pushed start button to on position, Held button, until light flashed slowly 3 times, wait 2 min's and light went out! Finally I need a drink!

Submitted by Blanca (not verified) on December 10, 2019 - 7:39PM

Permalink

Hi I’m tired and I’m spent like 2 hour’s trying to locate the tire pressure reset button in my 2008 Toyota RAV4 but I couldn’t find nothin any else know where it’s located?

Submitted by john drygulski (not verified) on February 16, 2020 - 4:35PM

Permalink

I have a 2010 Rav4
I cannot find the tire inflation light reset button
does anyone have a picture or schematic
Please help

Submitted by Tom chiacchia (not verified) on November 20, 2020 - 1:21PM

Permalink

I was wondering where the TPMS is located on a 2010 Rav4 ? Does this model have a reset switch ? Does anybody know how to disable the TPMS on a 2010 rav4 ?
Thanks,
Tom

Submitted by Steve (not verified) on August 14, 2021 - 2:10PM

Permalink

2008 Rav4 Limited, have been under the dash for a half hour. Finding nothing. Toyota wants you to have to come in and pay for an hour of labor.
Any ideas appreciated.