How to Reset the Tire-Pressure Light on a 2012 Honda Accord

For a 2012 Honda Accord, there is no manual “reset” button. To turn off the tire-pressure (TPMS) light, set all four tires to the pressure shown on the driver’s door-jamb label (commonly around 32 psi cold, but verify your sticker), then drive at least 5–10 miles at 25–45 mph; the low-pressure light should turn off on its own. If the “TPMS” system light stays on, a sensor or system fault likely needs diagnosis with a scan tool.

What the warning lights are telling you

The 2012 Accord uses a direct TPMS with sensors inside each wheel. It shows two different warnings—knowing which one you have helps determine the next step.

• Low tire pressure indicator: A yellow tire-shaped icon with an exclamation point. This means one or more tires are under-inflated. Inflate to spec and drive; the light should clear automatically.
• TPMS system indicator: The letters “TPMS” stay illuminated or flash. This signals a system fault (e.g., a dead/damaged sensor, radio interference, or a registration issue). It won’t clear by inflating alone and usually needs a scan-tool diagnosis.

If you see the tire icon, focus on air pressure. If you see the “TPMS” system light, plan on a diagnostic check after verifying pressures.

Step-by-step: Turning the light off after a pressure drop

Follow these steps after the light comes on due to colder weather, a slow leak, or normal seepage. This procedure addresses the low-pressure warning (tire icon) most owners encounter.

1. Park and let the tires cool. TPMS pressures are “cold” readings—ideally check/inflate after the car has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than a mile.
2. Find the correct pressure. Read the driver’s door-jamb sticker for the exact cold PSI for your trim and tire size (often around 32 psi front/rear on the 2012 Accord).
3. Use a reliable gauge. Digital or high-quality analog gauges are more consistent than gas-station sticks.
4. Inflate all four tires to the sticker PSI. Don’t forget to inspect for nails, screws, or cuts that could cause a slow leak.
5. Drive to allow the system to update. Start the car and drive 5–10 miles at 25–45 mph. The low-pressure light typically goes out within a few minutes of steady driving.
6. Recheck the next morning. If the light returns, you may have an active leak or a large temperature swing; re-verify pressures.
7. If the light persists or the “TPMS” system light is on, proceed to troubleshooting (below) or have the system scanned.

In normal cases, simply restoring the correct PSI and driving a short distance clears the warning without further action.

If the light stays on: Likely causes and fixes

When the warning doesn’t clear, the issue is often beyond basic inflation. These are the most common reasons on a 2012 Accord and what to do next.

• Active leak or puncture: If a tire keeps losing air, have it inspected and repaired or replaced.
• Sensor battery failure: The in-tire TPMS sensors typically last 7–10 years. On a 2012 vehicle, many original sensors have aged out; a dead sensor will trigger the “TPMS” system light. Replacement requires tire dismounting and registering the new sensor ID with a scan tool.
• Sensor damage during tire service: A broken sensor or valve stem can set a fault; replacement and registration are needed.
• Loss of sensor registration: Although the Accord’s direct TPMS doesn’t need a “relearn” after rotation, the control unit must know each sensor’s ID. If IDs are lost or a sensor is replaced, a shop must register them using Honda’s HDS or an equivalent TPMS tool.
• Temperature swings: A 10°F drop can reduce pressure by about 1 psi. Inflate to spec in colder weather to prevent repeat alerts.
• Tire sealant use: Some sealants can foul sensors, causing faults. The sensor may need cleaning or replacement.

If you’ve confirmed proper PSI and the light remains, a quick TPMS scan at a tire shop or dealer will pinpoint whether a sensor is offline or failing.

Do 2012 Accords have a TPMS reset button?

No. Unlike later Accords (2013 and newer) that use an “indirect” TPMS and offer an in-dash calibration menu or a “TPMS Set” function, the 2012 Accord’s direct TPMS does not have a user-accessible reset button. The system clears low-pressure warnings automatically after proper inflation and driving. Sensor faults require scan-tool diagnostics and, if needed, sensor registration.

About online “ignition on, hold the button” instructions

Those procedures apply to different Honda models/years with a dedicated TPMS calibration button or indirect systems. They do not apply to the 2012 Accord’s direct TPMS.

Tips to avoid future TPMS alerts

A few preventive steps can minimize nuisance warnings and improve tire life and safety.

• Check pressures monthly and before long trips; use the door-jamb PSI as your target.
• Account for seasons: add air as temperatures drop; recheck after cold snaps.
• Use quality valve caps and replace worn valve cores/stems when servicing tires.
• Request TPMS service kits (new seals/cores) during tire replacement to reduce leaks.
• Rotate tires on schedule and inspect for damage or uneven wear that hints at alignment issues.
• Avoid tire sealants unless necessary for an emergency; inform the shop if used.

Routine maintenance of pressure and hardware keeps the system happy and reduces unexpected warnings.

When to seek service—and typical costs

If the “TPMS” system light stays on after verifying pressures, a professional scan is the fastest fix. Here’s what to expect.

• Diagnostic scan: Often complimentary at tire shops; $30–$60 at some locations.
• Sensor replacement: About $60–$120 per sensor for quality aftermarket or OEM-equivalent parts, plus $20–$40 per wheel for programming/registration and mounting/balancing.
• Tire repair for punctures: Commonly $25–$40 for a proper plug/patch from the inside.

Prices vary by region and shop; dealer OEM sensors may cost more but ensure compatibility.

Summary

On a 2012 Honda Accord, you reset the tire-pressure light by inflating all four tires to the door-jamb PSI and driving several miles so the system can update—there is no manual reset button. If the “TPMS” system light remains on, a sensor or registration issue is likely and requires a quick scan and, if needed, sensor replacement and programming.

How to clear tire pressure light on Honda Accord?

To clear the tire pressure light on a Honda Accord, first, ensure all tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure found on the driver’s side door jamb. Then, turn the car to the “on” position without starting the engine. Locate and press the TPMS button below the Econ button (on some models), or navigate through the infotainment system’s Settings > Vehicle > TPMS Calibration > Calibrate menu (on newer models with touchscreens). After initiating the calibration, drive for a few minutes at speeds between 30-60 mph for the system to recalibrate and the light to turn off. 
For Older Honda Accords (2013-2016, without a touchscreen):

1. 1. Inflate tires: Ensure all tires are inflated to the correct cold PSI, indicated on the sticker on the driver’s door jamb. 
2. 2. Turn power on: Turn the vehicle to the “on” position by pressing the ignition button twice without pushing the brake pedal. 
3. 3. Locate the TPMS button: Find the TPMS button on the instrument panel, usually to the left of the steering column and below the Econ button. 
4. 4. Press and hold the button: Press and hold the TPMS button until the indicator light on the instrument panel blinks twice. 
5. 5. Drive to calibrate: Take the car for a short drive, maintaining a speed of approximately 50 mph for a few minutes, to allow the system to recalibrate. 

For Newer Honda Accords (2017+ with a touchscreen):

1. 1. Inflate tires: Check and adjust the tire pressure to the recommended level found on the driver’s door jamb. 
2. 2. Turn power on: Turn the ignition to the “on” position, with the transmission in park. 
3. 3. Navigate the menu: 
   • On the Home screen, select Settings. 
   • Select Vehicle. 
   • Select TPMS Calibration. 
   • Select Calibrate. 
4. 4. Drive to complete calibration: The calibration process will start automatically. You will need to drive for a few minutes at speeds around 30-60 mph for the system to finish the recalibration, at which point the light will turn off. 

Important Considerations:

• Always check your owner’s manual: for detailed instructions specific to your Accord’s model year and features. 
• If the light remains on after following these steps, there may be a faulty TPMS sensor, and you should have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. 

Where is the TPMS reset button on a 2012 Honda Accord?

For a 2012 Honda Accord, the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) reset button is located to the left of the steering column. If your vehicle has a touchscreen display, you can also reset the TPMS through the vehicle settings menu. 
Steps to reset the TPMS:

1. 1. Check and correct tire pressure: Ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressure as indicated on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. 
2. 2. Locate the TPMS reset button: It’s typically found on the lower left of the dashboard, to the left of the steering column. 
3. 3. Start the vehicle: Turn the ignition to the “on” position (engine start button, press without brake). 
4. 4. Press and hold the TPMS button: Press and hold the button until the TPMS light blinks twice. This indicates the calibration process has begun. 
5. 5. Drive the vehicle: The TPMS will recalibrate while you drive. For many models, this takes about 30 minutes at speeds between 30-60 mph. 
6. 6. If no button: If your vehicle has a touchscreen, you can reset the TPMS through the vehicle settings menu. 

Troubleshooting:

• If the TPMS light remains on after resetting, there might be a more serious issue with the system, such as a faulty sensor or a problem with the control unit. 
• Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified technician for further assistance. 

What is TPMS on a 2012 Honda Accord?

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) on your Accord does exactly what the name says – it monitors the air pressure in your tires. If the system detects a drop in pressure, it turns on the Low Tire Pressure light on the dash.

Where is the TPMS reset button located on a Honda?

Recalibration of the tire pressure on your 2017 to 2022 CRV is a very straightforward. Process but it varies based on your vehicle’s configuration. And model year for the base model LX from 2017 to