How to Reset the TPMS on a Mercedes-Benz
⚙Tools Needed
- Tire pressure gauge
- Air compressor or inflator
★Supplies Needed
- No supplies required
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 01
Inflate all tires to the correct pressure
Before resetting the TPMS, verify that all four tires are inflated to the specification listed on the tire information placard on the driver door jamb. Use a quality tire pressure gauge, as the built-in TPMS is not a substitute for manual checks. Common specs are 33-36 PSI for sedans and 36-40 PSI for SUVs, but always reference your specific vehicle placard.
- 02
Turn the ignition to the ON position
For key vehicles, turn to position 2 without starting the engine. For push-button start models, press the start button twice without pressing the brake pedal. The instrument cluster should fully illuminate with all warning lights briefly showing, then turning off. The TPMS light may remain illuminated.
- 03
Navigate to the tire pressure menu
Using the steering wheel controls or the MBUX/COMAND infotainment system, navigate to Vehicle Settings > Tires > Tire Pressure. On older models with the instrument cluster only, use the left stalk buttons to scroll to the tire pressure display screen. You should see a graphic showing all four tires and their current pressures.
- 04
Select the TPMS restart or reset option
Once on the tire pressure screen, look for "Restart" or "Reset" option. On newer MBUX-equipped models, this appears as a button at the bottom of the tire pressure display. On older models, press and hold the OK button when the tire pressure screen is displayed. Confirm the reset when prompted.
- 05
Drive to complete the calibration
After initiating the reset, drive the vehicle for approximately 10-20 minutes at speeds above 25 mph. The TPMS system uses wheel speed sensors to detect relative differences in tire circumference, and it needs driving data to recalibrate. The TPMS warning light should turn off once calibration is complete.
- 06
Verify all pressures are reading correctly
After driving, check the tire pressure display again to confirm all four tires are showing the correct pressures. If one tire consistently shows a different reading or the warning returns, that tire may have a slow leak, or the TPMS sensor in that wheel may be faulty. TPMS sensor batteries last approximately 7-10 years.
⚠Warnings & Safety Notes
- 01Always check tire pressures when the tires are cold (not driven for at least 3 hours). Warm tires read 3-5 PSI higher than cold, which can mask a low tire.
- 02Do not rely solely on the TPMS. It may not detect a sudden rapid loss of pressure in all circumstances. Visually inspect your tires regularly.
- 03If the TPMS light flashes for 60-90 seconds then stays solid, this indicates a system fault (bad sensor or module), not just low tire pressure. This requires diagnostic equipment to repair.
- 04After installing new tires or wheels, the TPMS must be reset. New TPMS sensors may also need to be programmed to the vehicle with a diagnostic tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my TPMS light come on in cold weather?+
Tire pressure drops approximately 1 PSI for every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in ambient temperature. A tire inflated to 33 PSI in summer at 80 degrees F can drop to 29 PSI on a cold 40-degree morning, triggering the TPMS warning. Inflate to the correct cold pressure and the light should go off after driving.
Does Mercedes use direct or indirect TPMS?+
Most modern Mercedes-Benz models use an indirect TPMS system that relies on the ABS wheel speed sensors to detect differences in wheel rotational speed (a low tire has a smaller effective diameter and rotates faster). Some models also include direct pressure sensors in the valve stems. Indirect systems require a reset after tire rotations or pressure adjustments.
My TPMS light is on but all tires look fine. What should I do?+
Appearances can be deceiving; a tire can be 10 PSI low and look nearly normal. Always check with a gauge. Also check the spare tire if your model has one, as some vehicles monitor the spare. If all pressures are correct, try the reset procedure. If the light returns, a TPMS sensor may be failing.
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