How do I know which tire is low on my Lexus RX 350?
The Lexus RX 350 uses a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to alert you when a tire is underinflated, and many trims can display which tire is low on the instrument cluster. If your model doesn’t show the exact tire, you can determine it by checking each tire with a gauge against the door-jamb recommended pressure.
Quick indicators from the dashboard
Before you start a detailed check, use the in-vehicle indicators to guide you. The TPMS warning light is your first cue, and some models also show per-tire pressures on the display.
- When the TPMS light comes on, it signals low pressure in at least one tire. Some RX 350 models will also display the individual tire pressures or a highlighted tire on the information screen.
- Look for a tire pressure readout on the instrument cluster or multi-information display (MID) that labels each tire as FL (front-left), FR (front-right), RL (rear-left), and RR (rear-right).
Concluding: If your RX 350 shows a specific tire on the screen, you’ve identified the low tire directly. If not, you’ll need to verify with a manual pressure check.
Using the in‑vehicle tire pressure readout
If your model supports a dedicated tire-pressure readout, follow these steps to identify the low tire exactly.
- Turn on the vehicle and press the appropriate button to access the vehicle information or display menu (often labelled DISP, INFO, or Vehicle Information).
- Navigate to the Tire Pressure or TPMS screen. You should see the current cold pressures for all four tires, usually labeled FL, FR, RL, RR.
- Note which tire reads significantly lower than the others or is indicated as low on the display.
Concluding: When the per-tire readout is available, you can quickly pinpoint the low tire and proceed to inflate or inspect it as needed.
What to do if your display doesn’t show which tire is low
If your RX 350 doesn’t provide a per-tire pressure readout, perform a manual inspection and measurement to identify the low tire.
- Check all four tires with a tire-pressure gauge when the tires are cold (before driving or after the car has been parked for a few hours).
- Compare each measured pressure with the recommended cold tire pressure found on the driver’s door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.
- Inspect each tire for signs of damage (nail, cut, bulge) or a slow leak that could account for the low reading.
Concluding: Manual measurement plus visual inspection will identify the low tire when the in-dash readout isn’t available or not detailed enough.
Recommended steps after identifying the low tire
Once you know which tire is low, follow these steps to restore safe operating conditions and ensure TPMS accuracy.
- Inflate the low tire to the manufacturer’s recommended cold pressure. Use a reliable gauge and re-check after a few minutes to confirm stability.
- Inspect the tire for damage or leaks. If the tire cannot be inflated to the correct pressure due to a puncture or sidewall damage, replace or repair as needed.
- After inflating, drive at a moderate speed to allow the TPMS to relearn. Some RX 350 models relearn automatically while driving; others may require a TPMS reset in the vehicle’s settings.
Concluding: Correct inflation and a successful TPMS relearn ensure the system accurately tracks tire pressures going forward.
When to seek professional help
There are situations where professional service is advised, especially if you cannot locate a leak or if the tire has sustained significant damage.
- If a tire cannot be inflated to the recommended pressure due to a leak that you cannot seal.
- If you notice a rapid drop in tire pressure after inflation, indicating a possible puncture or structural damage.
- If the TPMS warning persists after inflating to the correct pressure and performing a relearn.
Concluding: Don’t drive long distances on a tire that remains underinflated or damaged; seek help from a tire shop or roadside assistance as needed.
Safety and maintenance tips
Regular tire maintenance helps prevent low-tire situations and keeps TPMS functioning reliably.
- Check tire pressures monthly and before long trips, especially during temperature changes.
- Replace tires that show excessive wear or visible damage; after replacement, ensure the TPMS is reset or relearned as required.
- Keep spare tire in good condition and know your RX 350’s specific TPMS procedures for your model year.
Concluding: Proactive checks and proper TPMS relearn procedures help you respond quickly when a tire is low.
Summary
The RX 350’s TPMS alerts you to low tire pressure and, on many trims, can identify the exact tire from the instrument display. If your model doesn’t show which tire is low, measure each tire with a gauge against the door-jamb recommended pressure, inspect for damage, and inflate the low tire to the specified level. After inflating, perform a TPMS relearn if required and monitor the system to ensure accurate readings in the future. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of running on underinflated tires and enhances overall safety on the road.
