These instructions apply to the Toyota RAV4 Mk4 (XA40) 2013-2018. For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
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When the tyre-pressure warning light comes on in your Toyota RAV4 (XA40, 2013–2018), it usually just means the system needs to relearn your current pressures after a check, top-up or wheel change. The RAV4 resets with a button. This guide shows how to reset (initialise) the RAV4 tyre-pressure monitoring system.
How the RAV4 System Works
The XA40 RAV4 uses a direct tyre-pressure monitoring system with a sensor in each wheel. After you adjust the pressures or change a wheel, you tell the car to store the current pressures using the TPMS reset button. The system then monitors against that baseline.
When to Reset
- After checking or adjusting the tyre pressures (including seasonal changes).
- After changing one or more wheels or tyres.
- After rotating the wheels front-to-back.
Set Your Pressures First
The reset stores whatever pressures are in the tyres at that moment, so they must be correct first. Set all four (cold) to the figures on the placard in the driver’s door aperture, using the laden column for a full load. Never reset with a tyre already low.
How to Reset the RAV4 TPMS
- Make sure all four tyres are at the correct cold pressure.
- Turn the ignition on (engine off / accessory).
- Find the TPMS reset button (low on the dash, below the steering wheel) and press and hold it for about 3 seconds.
- The TPMS warning light flashes to confirm the system is being reset.
- Turn the ignition off. A short drive lets the system confirm the new pressures and the light goes out.
Light Won’t Go Out? Work Through This
- A tyre is genuinely low: the system is doing its job — find and fix the leak, re-inflate, then reset.
- Reset not started: the warning light should flash when you hold the button — if it doesn’t, check the ignition is on and you are holding the correct button.
- Light flashes then stays on (not a low tyre): a flashing TPMS light points to a sensor fault — a flat sensor battery is common on older RAV4s. The car may store a code you can look up on autodtcs.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the TPMS reset button on a RAV4?
Low on the dashboard below the steering wheel. Hold it about 3 seconds with the ignition on until the warning light flashes.
Do I have to drive after resetting?
A short drive lets the system confirm the stored pressures, after which the light goes out.
Why does the light come back a few days later?
Either a tyre is slowly losing air, or it was a little low when you reset. Re-check all four cold pressures and reset again.
The light flashes instead of staying steady — what does that mean?
A flashing TPMS light usually indicates a sensor fault rather than a low tyre — often a flat sensor battery. It will not clear with a reset and needs the sensor checked.
After tyre or seasonal-wheel work it is worth confirming the service reminder is clear — see our Toyota RAV4 service indicator reset guide.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general guidance only. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or any damage resulting from the use of this information.
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