Chevy Equinox Tire Pressure Sensor Reset
Before resetting anything, inflate all four tires to the pressure listed on the placard inside the driver's door jamb, since a TPMS reset performed on underinflated tires won't hold.
Jump to a section: Basic reset procedure · Alternative reset methods · Using a relearn tool · Quick reference table · FAQ
Basic Reset Procedure
Turn the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine, then press and hold the TPMS reset button, usually located under the steering wheel, until the TPMS light blinks three times. Afterward, drive for about 10 minutes at speeds above 50 mph to let the system fully recalibrate, and allow up to about 20 minutes total for the sensors to refresh.
Alternative Reset Methods
On some model years, you can instead turn the ignition to On, then press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on your remote key fob simultaneously until the horn sounds, or use the Driver Information Center menu by pressing the MENU button, scrolling to the Tire Pressure Menu, and pressing SET/CLR to initiate the reset.
Using a Relearn Tool
For a more direct reset, a TPMS relearn tool placed against the sidewall near the valve stem on each tire, starting with the driver's front, activates each sensor in turn; a horn chirp confirms the sensor ID has been matched to that wheel position.
Quick Reference Table
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Reset button | Ignition On, hold TPMS button until light blinks 3x, drive 10 min above 50 mph |
| Key fob method | Ignition On, hold lock + unlock until horn sounds |
| DIC menu | MENU > Tire Pressure Menu > SET/CLR |
| Relearn tool | Activate each sensor at the valve stem in sequence |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my TPMS light turn off after I fixed the tire pressure?
The system sometimes needs a short drive above 50 mph to fully recalibrate and recognize the corrected pressure, so give it 10-20 minutes of driving before assuming the reset failed.
Do I need special tools to reset TPMS?
No — the basic reset button or key fob method works without special tools on most model years; a relearn tool is only needed if you've replaced sensors or the basic method isn't syncing.
What if the light stays on even after resetting?
A light that persists after a proper reset may indicate a failing sensor rather than a pressure issue, which would need to be scanned and potentially replaced.
Does the reset button location vary by model year?
Yes, its exact placement under the steering column can vary slightly, so check your owner's manual if you can't locate it right away.
Shop the Parts Mentioned
- OEC-T5 EL-50448 TPMS Universal Activation Tool — relearns sensor IDs directly at each wheel.
- DTI-13G Digital Tire Inflator — gets tires to the correct placard pressure before resetting.
- 5-in-1 Digital Tire Pressure Gauge — verify pressure before and after the reset.
- GM Genuine Parts TPMS Sensor Kit — for replacing a failed sensor.
- Wireless Scanner — confirms whether a persistent light points to a sensor fault.