Lexus Tire Pressure Light: Why is it Illuminated?

What does it look like: An exclamation point inside a cut-away tire.

What color is it: Orange or yellow.

What does it mean: The Lexus tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is designed to alert you when tire pressure is too low in your vehicle. The warning light illuminates when air pressure is 25% below the normal recommended pressure for your Lexus model. Your Lexus may be at risk with low tire pressure which can result in tire failure, excessive wear/tear of the tires, vehicle handling problems and lower fuel economy.

What to do when it comes on: If the TPMS light comes on when your start your vehicle, turn it off and check the air in all the tires. Make sure the tires are properly inflated to the correct pressure. You can find the ideal tire pressure listed in your owner’s manual or on a sticker on the inside of your vehicle’s driver side door.

If the TPMS light comes on while driving, find a gas station with air pumps, check the tire pressure, add air if needed. The TPMS light will also illuminate if you are experiencing a sudden flat due to tire damage. If you see this light and notice a change in your vehicle’s handling, pull over immediately and check your tires for damage. Many Lexus vehicles are equipped with factory installed run flat tires and no spare tire. If this is the case, proceed slowly to a nearby Lexus repair facility. If you have installed aftermarket tires that are not run flats, you will need to call a tow truck.

If the light illuminates and flashes, then that generally means there is a TPMS malfunction. The first step is to, once again, check the pressure in all your tires and add air if necessary. If the TPMS light is still illuminated after adding air, then your best bet is to take it to a specialized Lexus mechanic for diagnosis.

Note: Drastic weather change can affect tires, especially during colder winter weather. It is wise to check your tires monthly.

What steps need to be taken to turn light off: Adding air to your tires if the pressure is too low, and then resetting your TPMS (see your owner’s manual for instructions), should work. If this fails, then a trip to your neighborhood Lexus repair mechanic is in store for a proper diagnosis.