How do I turn off TPMS on my Lexus?

In most Lexus models, there is no simple, user-accessible switch to permanently disable the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The system is designed for safety and to comply with regulations, and disabling it is generally discouraged and not supported by standard vehicle controls. If you're experiencing nuisance alerts or a tire-related issue, there are safe, recommended steps to address the problem rather than turning off the system.

What TPMS does and why Lexus uses it

TPMS monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver when any tire is significantly under-inflated. Proper tire pressure improves fuel efficiency, handling, braking, and tire life. Lexus, like other automakers, installs TPMS to help prevent blowouts and poor performance, and in many places laws require it to be active when the vehicle is on public roads.

Can you turn off TPMS on a Lexus?

There is typically no in-car switch to permanently disable TPMS for everyday use. Some models may offer a temporary or service-mode option to disable TPMS during tire service, but this is intended for professional use and not for regular driving. Attempting to defeat or permanently disable the system can illuminate warning lights, affect safety features, and may violate local regulations.

Notes: If the vehicle is in service mode or if a dealer or qualified tire shop uses specialized tools, a temporary disablement might occur, but it is not a recommended or normal operation for owners. Always check your local regulations and the vehicle's manual before attempting any modification.

Below are safe, practical options to address TPMS-related issues without turning the system off.

• Inflate all tires to the recommended cold tire pressures shown on the door jamb sticker or in the owner's manual, then recheck with a tire gauge.


• Inspect tires for punctures, slow leaks, or damaged valves and repair or replace as needed.


• After adjusting tire pressures, drive the car at highway speeds or follow the relearn procedure stated in the owner’s manual to allow the TPMS to relearn the new pressures.


• Use the TPMS reset/relearn option if your model supports it through the instrument cluster or the settings menu, following the manual’s instructions.


• If you recently serviced a tire or wheel, ensure TPMS sensors were properly reprogrammed or replaced and that the wheel has the correct sensor IDs registered in the system.

Conclusion: While you cannot rely on a simple on/off toggle in most Lexus cars, following proper maintenance and relearn procedures helps keep TPMS accurate and your tires safe.

Safe alternatives if TPMS warnings persist

Before listing safe steps, note that the following are common, non-destructive remedies to persistent TPMS alerts.

• Verify tire pressures are up to the specified levels on all tires, including the spare if your Lexus displays TPMS for it.


• Look for tire damage or slow leaks and address punctures or leaks with repair or replacement as appropriate.


• Consult the owner's manual for the exact TPMS reset/relearn process and perform it correctly for your model.


• Have a professional diagnose potential faulty sensors or a dead battery in a sensor, which can cause erroneous readings.

Conclusion: If the TPMS light remains after following these steps, booking a service appointment with a Lexus dealer or qualified tire technician is the safest option.

Summary

TPMS is a safety feature designed to prevent tire failure and improve vehicle handling. There is generally no legitimate, user-controlled way to turn it off on a Lexus. When TPMS alerts occur, the recommended course is to verify tire pressures, inspect tires for damage, perform the manufacturer’s relearn procedure if applicable, and consult a professional if sensors are faulty. Keeping the system active helps protect you on the road and complies with safety standards and laws.

Where is the TPMS reset button on Lexus RX350?

The TPMS reset button on a Lexus RX 350 is either a physical button located under the steering column near the hood release lever, or the reset is done through the "Vehicle Settings" menu on the infotainment display. To reset with a physical button, press and hold it until the indicator light blinks three times. To reset via the screen, navigate to Vehicle Settings, then TPMS, and press and hold the button on the screen until the light blinks.
 
This video shows the location of the TPMS reset button on a 2010 Lexus RX 350: 48sXJLuxuryYouTube · Aug 1, 2019
Method 1: Using the physical button

• Locate the button: Look for a button with the TPMS icon on the left side of the steering column, near the hood release lever, or above the accelerator pedal. 
• Press and hold: Press and hold the button until the TPMS indicator light on the instrument cluster blinks three times. 
• Drive to complete: Drive the vehicle for at least 10 minutes at speeds of around 25 mph or more to allow the system to recalibrate. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the TPMS using the physical button: 56sDoctor ResetYouTube · Sep 27, 2024
Method 2: Using the multi-information display

• Turn the ignition on: Turn the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine. 
• Navigate the menu: Use the left steering wheel buttons to find the "Vehicle Settings" menu on the center display. Select it, then find and select "TPMS". 
• Press and hold: Press and hold the on-screen button or the center button on the steering wheel until the light blinks three times. 

This video shows how to reset the TPMS using the infotainment display: 59sTire Pressure Monitoring SystemYouTube · Sep 28, 2021
Before you begin

• Check tire pressure: Inflate all four tires to the recommended pressure found on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb. 
• Include the spare: If you have a spare tire, make sure it is also properly inflated. 
• Turn off the car: If using the physical button, ensure the ignition is on without starting the engine. If using the display, turn the car on without starting the engine. 

Where is my TPMS reset button?

Your TPMS reset button is likely located under the steering wheel on the driver's side, but it can also be on the center console, in the glove box, or accessed through the vehicle's display menu. The exact location varies by make and model, so you should consult your car's owner's manual for specific instructions.
 
How to find the button

• Look for a physical button: Check the area under the steering wheel, often to the left of the steering column. 
• Explore the center console or glove box: The button may be on the dashboard near the center console or inside the glove box. 
• Check the dashboard menu: On newer cars, the reset is often done through the vehicle's information display or touchscreen. You may need to press a "Menu," "Settings," or "Vehicle" button to find "TPMS Calibration" or a similar option. 
• Consult your owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to find the button or understand the reset procedure for your specific vehicle. 

After you find the button

• With the ignition on (but the engine off), press and hold the button until the TPMS light flashes three times. 
• Start the car: and wait about 20 minutes for the sensor to reset itself. 

How do I turn off my Lexus TPMS light?

Method 3: Using the Infotainment System

1. Turn on the vehicle and access the main menu on the infotainment screen.
2. Navigate to the “Vehicle” or “Settings” section, where you'll find the “Tire Pressure” menu.
3. Select “Reset” or “Reinitialize” the TPMS.

Can the TPMS be turned off?

No, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on most modern vehicles cannot be turned off via a simple button or switch because it's designed to be an essential safety feature. However, drivers can temporarily or permanently disable the warning light through methods like covering the light with tape or using a professional scan tool to reprogram the system. The legality of disabling TPMS can vary by location, and doing so is not recommended by vehicle manufacturers as it can lead to safety issues like impaired handling or tire failure. 
Temporary solutions

• Covering the light: A simple way to temporarily deal with a bothersome warning light is to place a piece of black electrical tape over the dashboard icon. This will prevent you from seeing the light, but it does not address the underlying low tire pressure. 
• System calibration: Some vehicles allow for a temporary recalibration of the TPMS system. If the light comes on for no apparent reason, you can try a calibration sequence, which may involve holding a button under the steering wheel or performing a short drive to reset the system. 

Permanent solutions

• Reprogramming: A more permanent solution is to use a special diagnostic tool to reprogram the TPMS system. This is often done by a professional mechanic, who can then either disable the system or reprogram it to work with new sensors. 
• Disabling via scan tool: Some vehicles may have a setting that can be changed using a specialized scan tool that can interface with the vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM) and reprogram the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). 

Safety and legal considerations

• Safety risks: Disabling the TPMS is strongly discouraged because it can lead to serious safety issues like a tire blowout due to low tire pressure. 
• Legal concerns: The legality of disabling the TPMS varies by location, but it is often illegal to disable a safety feature like the TPMS. 
• Vehicle inspection: Some jurisdictions may fail a vehicle during a safety inspection if the TPMS is disabled or malfunctioning. 

What to do instead

• Address the root cause: Instead of disabling the TPMS, address the underlying reason for the warning light to come on. This could be a simple pressure issue or a faulty sensor that needs to be replaced. 
• Check your spare tire: Make sure your spare tire is also inflated properly, as the TPMS will trigger if the spare tire is low on pressure. 
• Perform regular checks: Regularly check your tire pressure with a tire pressure gauge and adjust as needed to ensure optimal performance and safety.