How do you reset the warning light on a Toyota Corolla?

The way you reset a warning light on a Toyota Corolla depends on which light is on: the maintenance reminder, the tire‑pressure (TPMS) indicator, the check engine light, or the master warning triangle. Each has its own procedure and safety caveats.

Across model years, Corolla owners typically use the instrument cluster controls and, in some cases, a smartphone–style menu or a dedicated reset sequence. This guide covers the most common lights, with step‑by‑step instructions, cautions about diagnosing issues, and tips for when a diagnostic tool is needed.

Maintenance Required light (MAINT REQ)

The Maintenance Required light reminds you to take your car in for scheduled service. It is usually reset after the service is performed, but if it stays on, it can indicate that the maintenance interval has not been cleared or that a service item is overdue.

To reset the maintenance reminder on most Corolla models, follow these steps. Note that the exact sequence can vary by year and trim, so consult your owner's manual if the light persists.

1. Turn the ignition to ON with the engine not running.


2. Locate the odometer/trip meter reset button on the instrument cluster.


3. Press and hold the reset button. Depending on the model year, you may need to either release when the light goes out or continue holding while you turn the ignition OFF and back ON. Keep holding until the MAINT REQD indicator disappears or the odometer resets to 000000.


4. Release the button and start the engine to verify the light is off. If it remains, repeat the steps or consult the manual/dealer for your specific year.

If the light returns after service, it may indicate a maintenance item still needs attention or the reset was not completed correctly. A quick call to a dealership or service center can confirm the proper procedure for your exact model year.

TPMS Light (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

The TPMS light indicates that one or more tires are underinflated, or there is a sensor or system fault. Correct tire pressures first, then reset or relearn the system if needed. Driving the car after inflation adjustments often triggers a relearn automatically.

Before attempting a reset, ensure tire pressures are at the recommended levels and that all four tires (and the spare, if your model uses it for reference) are checked as specified by the door placard.

1. Inflate all tires to the recommended pressures shown on the driver’s door placard (including the spare if your model uses it for TPMS reference).


2. If your Corolla has a dedicated TPMS reset option in the settings, go to the vehicle’s menu (often Settings > Vehicle > TPMS > Reset/Learn) and follow the on‑screen prompts. The system will relearn after driving.


3. Drive normally at steady speeds (many owners report that speeds over 30–50 mph for 10–20 minutes help the relearn process). If the light stays on after a proper relearn, there may be a faulty sensor or battery in a sensor that needs service.

The TPMS light should normally go out once the system has relearned with correct pressures. If it does not, have the sensors and receiver checked by a tire or automotive professional.

Check Engine light (Malfunction Indicator Lamp)

The check engine light signals a problem detected by the engine or emissions control systems. It is not safe to assume it can be reset by a quick button press; you should diagnose the fault and fix the root cause.

Here’s how to approach it safely and effectively.

1. If the light is flashing, treat it as urgent: pull over safely, check for obvious problems (oil level, overheating, etc.), and avoid driving long distances until it’s addressed. A flashing light often indicates a misfire or more serious issue.


2. If the light is steady, use an OBD‑II scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Many auto parts stores offer free code reads, or a mechanic can pull the codes for you.


3. Use the codes to guide repairs or service. Common causes include faulty oxygen sensors, catalytic converter issues, mass air flow sensor problems, loose gas caps, or ignition system faults. Addressing the root cause is essential; simply clearing the code without repair will usually cause the light to return.


4. After repairs are completed, clear the codes with a scan tool or let the car run through a few driving cycles. The light should turn off automatically once the fault is resolved and the system re‑checks are successful.

While a quick reset may turn the light off temporarily, persistent emissions or engine faults require proper diagnosis and repair. If you’re unsure, consult a qualified technician or a Toyota dealer for a precise diagnosis.

Master Warning light (triangle with exclamation)

The yellow Master Warning triangle indicates a general issue that requires attention, often accompanied by a specific message on the Multi‑Information Display. It is not a light that should be reset without addressing the underlying cause.

Use these steps to locate and address the problem.

1. Read the exact warning text on the instrument panel or MID to identify the subsystem involved (brakes, tires, maintenance, airbags, etc.).


2. Address the indicated issue (check tire pressures, service due, brake system alert, or another advisory). If the message is unclear or appears urgent, pull over safely and seek assistance.


3. Once the root cause is resolved, the Master Warning light typically goes out on its own after driving, or it may require clearing codes with a diagnostic tool if the message persists.

In many cases, the Master Warning light is a consolidating alert that one or more individual warnings must be fixed before the light resets on its own.

Summary

Resetting warning lights on a Toyota Corolla is not one-size-fits-all. Identify which light is on—Maintenance Required, TPMS, Check Engine, or Master Warning—and follow the appropriate procedure. Always address the underlying issue first; a reset won’t fix a real problem. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual for your exact model year, or visit a Toyota dealership or qualified mechanic for guidance. Regular maintenance and correct tire pressures help prevent many warnings from appearing in the first place.

How to reset warning lights on Toyota Corolla?

So then you push okay and then you go to yes reset and then reset's. Complete so now we shut it off. And then we start it back up. And it should be cleared. Yep it's cleared.

How do I turn off the Toyota warning light?

Put your key in the ignition and turn it to position one, the position just before starting the car. Push and hold the trip meter reset button on the dashboard, then turn your key to position two. Continue holding the odometer button for 10 seconds. The light should then flash, possibly beep, and then go out.

How to get rid of maintenance required message on Toyota Corolla?

To remove the "Maintenance Required" light on a Toyota Corolla, use the steering wheel buttons to navigate to the "Scheduled Maintenance" screen under the "Settings" or "Gear" icon on the multi-information display, then select "Reset" and confirm. Alternatively, for older models, turn the key to the "on" position (without starting), hold the trip reset button until "Trip A" shows, turn the key off, then press and hold the trip button while turning the key back to "on" until the odometer flashes zero. 
For newer models with a multi-information display 
This video demonstrates how to reset the maintenance light on a newer Toyota Corolla: 58sCarHubYouTube · Oct 1, 2023

1. Turn the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine (press the start button twice without your foot on the brake for push-button start). 
2. Use the steering wheel's left/right arrow buttons to select the "Gear/Settings" icon on the multi-information display. 
3. Navigate to "Scheduled Maintenance" using the up/down arrows and press the "Select" or "OK" button to enter. 
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the reset. You will typically need to select "Yes" to complete the reset. 

For older models with a physical trip button 
You can watch this video to see how to reset the maintenance light on an older Toyota Corolla using the trip button: 32sAutomotive Service Reset ProceduresYouTube · Jul 18, 2019

1. Insert the key and turn it to the "on" position without starting the engine. 
2. Press the trip reset button until the odometer display shows "Trip A". 
3. Turn the key back to the "off" position. 
4. Press and hold the trip reset button. While still holding the button, turn the key to the "on" position. 
5. Release the button when the odometer flashes zero, or when the maintenance light turns off. 

How do you reset the check engine light on a Toyota without a scanner?

And find the battery remove both the positive. And negative cables from the battery. Terminals. Now press the car horn for about 30 seconds. You can also turn on the headlights.