How to Reset the Tire Pressure Warning on a 2012 Honda Civic

The 2012 Honda Civic does not have a manual TPMS reset button or in-dash menu; to turn off the tire pressure warning light, inflate all tires to the door-jamb placard pressure when cold, then drive for several minutes and the light should go out. If the light blinks at startup or remains on after proper inflation and driving, the system likely needs diagnosis with a scan tool due to a sensor or TPMS fault.

Understanding the Civic’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Honda equipped the 2012 Civic with a direct TPMS that uses pressure sensors mounted inside each wheel. When any tire is significantly underinflated, the low-pressure indicator appears on the dash. Unlike newer models with “calibration” menus, the 2012 Civic doesn’t let you reset the system manually—correct tire pressure and a short drive are what clears a valid low-pressure alert. A solid light typically means at least one tire is still low; a blinking light for about 60 seconds at each startup, followed by a solid light, signals a TPMS malfunction that requires service.

Step-by-Step: Turning Off the Low Tire Pressure Light After Inflation

The following steps explain how to restore proper tire pressure and allow the system to clear the warning. Always use the pressure values on the driver’s door-jamb sticker (in psi/kPa) for your specific trim and tire size, not the number on the tire sidewall.

1. Park safely and let the tires cool: Ideally check pressures when the car has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than a mile.
2. Find the correct pressure: Open the driver’s door and read the tire placard for the recommended front and rear pressures.
3. Measure all four tires: Use a reliable gauge to check each tire. (The temporary spare, if equipped, is not monitored by the TPMS.)
4. Inflate or deflate as needed: Adjust each tire to the placard value. Recheck with your gauge to confirm accuracy.
5. Drive to allow the system to update: Drive at typical road speeds (around 30–45 mph / 50–70 km/h) for 10–20 minutes. The warning light should turn off once the system verifies normal pressure.
6. Recheck if needed: If the light stays on solid, re-verify pressures and look for punctures or slow leaks.

Following these steps resolves most low-pressure warnings. If the indicator remains illuminated after proper inflation and a short drive, further inspection is warranted.

If the Light Stays On or Blinks

When the warning persists, the system is signaling either continued low pressure or a fault. Use the points below to pinpoint next steps and avoid unnecessary part replacements.

• Solid light after inflation: One or more tires may still be under the threshold, a slow leak may be present, or a recent cold snap dropped pressure. Recheck with a trusted gauge and inspect for nails, cuts, or bead leaks.
• Blinks for ~60 seconds at startup, then stays on: This indicates a TPMS malfunction (e.g., a dead sensor battery, damaged sensor, or communication issue). Diagnosis with a TPMS scan tool is required.
• Recent wheel/tire work: If you installed wheels without sensors, the light will remain on. If sensors were replaced, they may need to be registered/programmed to the car with a compatible scan tool.
• Large temperature or altitude changes: Pressure can drop about 1 psi for every 10°F (5.6°C) decrease. Adjust to placard values under current conditions.

If none of these steps clear the light, have a technician perform a TPMS scan. Sensor batteries are sealed and non-serviceable; failed sensors must be replaced and, when required, registered to the vehicle.

After Tire Service or Sensor Replacement

Service work can affect TPMS behavior. These notes help ensure the warning light stays off following maintenance or seasonal wheel swaps.

• Tire rotation: No manual reset is needed. Keep pressures at placard values and the light should remain off.
• New or replacement sensors: Depending on the parts used and tool capability, the Civic’s TPMS may auto-learn after driving or may require sensor ID registration via Honda’s HDS or an equivalent scan tool.
• Winter/summer wheel sets: Ensure each wheel has a compatible TPMS sensor pre-programmed for the 2012 Civic. Confirm sensor specifications and frequency with your supplier or installer.

Coordinating with a shop that has the right TPMS tools will prevent persistent warnings after tire or sensor changes.

Tips for Accurate Tire Pressures

Good habits keep the TPMS quiet and your tires wearing evenly. Consider the following best practices to minimize false alarms and extend tire life.

• Check pressures monthly when tires are cold, and before long trips.
• Use a quality handheld gauge; gas-station pumps are often inaccurate.
• Follow the door-jamb placard, not the tire sidewall maximum.
• Expect pressure changes with weather; top up during cold spells.

Sticking to these basics helps maintain stable pressures and optimal fuel economy while reducing TPMS alerts.

Frequently Asked: Is There a Reset Button or Menu?

No. The 2012 Honda Civic does not provide a driver-accessible reset button or calibration menu. Correct the pressures to the placard values and drive; if the light doesn’t clear, a TPMS fault or sensor issue likely requires a technician’s scan tool.

Summary

To “reset” the tire pressure warning on a 2012 Honda Civic, inflate all tires to the driver’s door-jamb placard pressure when cold, then drive for several minutes to allow the TPMS to verify normal readings. There is no manual reset. A persistent solid light points to underinflation or leaks; a blinking-then-solid light indicates a system fault that needs professional diagnosis and, if necessary, sensor registration or replacement.

Why is my TPMS flashing on my 2012 Honda Civic?

A flashing “Check TPMS System” warning light on a 2012 Honda Civic typically indicates a problem with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This could be due to low tire pressure, a faulty sensor, a sensor with a low battery, or a system malfunction. It’s important to address this issue promptly as a malfunctioning TPMS can affect vehicle safety. 
This video explains how to reset the TPMS on a 2012 Honda Civic: 47sOldSoulMillennialYouTube · May 23, 2025
Here’s a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:
1. Low Tire Pressure:

• Check: Inspect all tires and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, as indicated on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. 
• Reset: After inflating the tires, reset the TPMS system using the vehicle’s reset procedure or a scan tool. 
• Note: Some systems need to be reset after inflating or rotating tires, or after a sensor replacement. 

This video shows the location of the TPMS reset button and how to use it: 59sJoel DufkisYouTube · Jan 4, 2018
2. Faulty TPMS Sensor:

• Identify: A flashing light, especially after a tire change or recent service, can indicate a sensor issue. 
• Diagnose: A professional scan tool can identify which sensor is malfunctioning. 
• Replace: Replace the faulty sensor, and ensure it’s properly programmed to the vehicle’s system. 
• Battery: Sensor batteries can also fail, requiring sensor replacement. 

This video explains how to reset the TPMS light after tire pressure adjustment: 58sHondaYouTube · Jun 28, 2022
3. System Malfunction:

• Check: If tire pressure is correct and sensors are functioning, the TPMS module or wiring could be faulty.
• Inspect: Check wiring harnesses and antenna connections for damage or corrosion.
• Seek professional help: If the issue persists, take your Civic to a qualified mechanic or dealership. 

Important Considerations:

• Safety: A malfunctioning TPMS can lead to driving with low tire pressure, which can affect handling, braking, and fuel economy. 
• Interference: Sometimes, aftermarket accessories like backup cameras can cause interference with the TPMS, causing false warnings. 
• DIY vs. Professional: While some issues can be addressed with a simple reset or sensor replacement, complex problems may require professional diagnosis and repair. 

How do I reset the tire pressure light on a Honda Civic?

To reset the tire pressure light on a Honda Civic, first check and inflate all tires to the recommended pressure. Then, locate the “TPMS Calibration” option either by pressing the TPMS reset button to the left of the steering wheel (older models) or by navigating through the “Settings” or “Vehicle Settings” menu on the touchscreen (newer models). Follow the on-screen prompts or hold the button until the light blinks, then drive for about 10-30 minutes at speeds over 30 mph for the system to recalibrate.
 
Check Tire Pressure First 

1. 1. Find the correct pressure: Locate the sticker on the driver’s doorjamb or in your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure.
2. 2. Inflate tires: Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure all tires are inflated to the correct PSI.
3. 3. Complete repairs: Make any necessary repairs to the tires or fix any other issues that could trigger the light.

This video shows how to check tire pressure and find the correct PSI for your Honda Civic: 1mHondaYouTube · May 15, 2019
Reset the System
The method to reset the system depends on your Honda Civic’s model year and features. 
For models with a TPMS reset button:

1. Turn the ignition on: With the car in park, turn the ignition to the “on” position without starting the engine. 
2. Locate the button: Find the TPMS button to the left of the steering wheel. 
3. Press and hold: Press and hold the button until the TPMS indicator light flashes twice. 

For models with a touchscreen and menu button:

1. Turn the ignition on: Turn the ignition to the “on” position with the car in park. 
2. Access settings: On the home screen, select “Settings”. 
3. Navigate to TPMS Calibration: Choose “Vehicle Settings” (or similar) and then find “TPMS Calibration”. 
4. Calibrate: Select “Calibrate” and follow any on-screen instructions. 

After Resetting 

1. Drive to recalibrate: Drive your Honda Civic for about 10 to 30 minutes at speeds over 30 mph to allow the system to recognize the new pressure. The TPMS light should turn off after this period.

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

The 2012 Honda Civic uses the display audio system for TPMS recalibration, not a physical button. You can reset the TPMS by ensuring correct tire pressure, then turning the ignition ON and the parking brake set, navigating to the Home button on the touch screen, selecting Settings, then Vehicle, then TPMS Calibration, and finally Calibrate to begin the process. 
Step-by-step TPMS reset for a 2012 Honda Civic: 

1. 1. Check Tire Pressure: Inflate all tires to the correct pressure, as listed on the driver’s side door jamb. 
2. 2. Set the System: Make sure the car’s ignition is ON and the parking brake is engaged. 
3. 3. Access the Menu:
   • Press the Home button on the display audio screen. 
   • Select Settings. 
   • Select Vehicle. 
   • Select TPMS Calibration. 
4. 4. Initialize the Calibration: 
   • Select Calibrate to start the process. 
   • If prompted, select the “Yes” option to proceed. 
5. 5. Complete the Calibration: The TPMS will now begin its calibration process. Drive the car for a short time (about 15-30 minutes) at speeds between 30-60 mph for the system to fully recalibrate and the warning light to turn off. 

What is the TPMS system on a 2012 Honda Civic?

Direct TPMS has TPMS sensors installed in the wheel; if one or more tires indicate low tire pressure, the TPMS sensors will transfer the information to the vehicle’s ECU. An indicator light (low-line TPMS system) or each tire pressure will show on the dash (high-line TPMS system).