The Ultimate Guide to Chrysler TPMS Reset and Relearn Procedures
If your Chrysler vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light is on, it means one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Driving on underinflated tires is dangerous – it can cause uneven wear, reduced fuel economy, and even a blowout. That’s why it’s important to know how to reset your Chrysler’s TPMS when needed.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Chrysler TPMS reset and relearn procedures. We’ll explain what the TPMS does, which Chrysler models have TPMS, and provide step-by-step instructions for resetting the TPMS light using a scan tool or your vehicle’s controls. Let’s get started!
What is TPMS and How Does It Work?
TPMS is an electronic system that monitors the air pressure in your vehicle’s tires. If the pressure in one or more tires drops 25% or more below the recommended pressure, the system will alert you by turning on the TPMS warning light on the dashboard.
There are two types of TPMS:
- Direct TPMS uses physical pressure sensors mounted on the wheels to measure tire pressure. The sensors transmit this data wirelessly to a central control module.
- Indirect TPMS uses the anti-lock brake system’s wheel speed sensors to compare the rotational speed of the wheels. If one tire is underinflated, it will roll at a different speed than the others.
All Chrysler vehicles 2008 and newer have direct TPMS systems. Older models may have indirect systems or no TPMS at all.
Which Chrysler Models Have TPMS?
According to Chrysler, the following models are equipped with TPMS:
- 300 (2005-present)
- Aspen (2007-2009)
- Pacifica (2004-2008, 2017-present)
- PT Cruiser (2003-2010)
- Sebring (2002-2010)
- Town & Country (2002-2016)
- Voyager (2001-2003)
For Dodge models:
- Avenger (2008-2014)
- Caliber (2007-2012)
- Challenger (2008-present)
- Charger (2006-present)
- Dart (2013-2016)
- Durango (2004-2009, 2011-present)
- Grand Caravan (2001-2020)
- Journey (2009-2020)
- Magnum (2005-2008)
- Nitro (2007-2011)
- Ram 1500 (2002-present)
- Ram 2500/3500 (2003-2009)
And for Jeep:
- Commander (2006-2010)
- Compass (2007-present)
- Grand Cherokee (2004-present)
- Liberty (2002-2012)
- Patriot (2007-2017)
- Wrangler (2007-present)
If your Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep model is listed above and was made in the corresponding years, it should have a direct TPMS system that can be reset and relearned.
When Do You Need to Reset or Relearn TPMS?
There are a few scenarios where you’ll need to reset or relearn your vehicle’s TPMS:
- After adjusting tire pressure – Any time you add or release air from your tires, you should reset the TPMS so it knows the new baseline pressure.
- After rotating or replacing tires – If you get your tires rotated or replace one or more tires/wheels, the TPMS needs to relearn the positions of the sensors.
- After replacing a TPMS sensor – If you get a new sensor, the system needs to learn its ID and location.
- When the TPMS light comes on – If the light turns on and stays on, there may be an issue with tire pressure or the TPMS itself. Resetting it is the first troubleshooting step.
Performing a TPMS reset or relearn requires either a TPMS activation tool/scan tool or specific steps using your vehicle’s controls. We’ll cover both methods in detail below.
Chrysler TPMS Reset Using a Scan Tool
The easiest and most reliable way to reset your Chrysler’s TPMS is with an OBD-II scanner or dedicated TPMS activation tool. You can get a basic code reader that can reset TPMS for around $30-$60. A professional-grade scan tool with full TPMS functions will cost $200+.
Here are the general steps to reset TPMS with a scan tool:
- Ensure all tires are inflated to the pressure listed on the placard inside the driver’s door jamb.
- Connect your scan tool to the OBD-II port under the dashboard. Turn the key to the “On” position but don’t start the engine.
- Use the scan tool menu to locate the TPMS reset option. On most tools, it will be under “Vehicle Information” ABS, or “Tire Pressure Monitor.”
- Select “Reset” or “Relearn” to clear any existing sensor IDs and warning lights. The horn will chirp twice to confirm the system is in relearn mode.
- Starting with the left front tire, hold the scan tool against the sidewall near the valve stem. Press the “Activate” button on the tool to trigger the sensor.
- Wait for the horn to chirp to confirm the sensor ID has been learned. Repeat the process for the other three sensors in a clockwise order, ending with the left rear tire.
- When done, the horn will chirp twice and the TPMS light will turn off. This indicates all sensor IDs have been learned and the relearn is complete.
- Turn off the ignition and disconnect the scan tool. Drive the vehicle at 15+ mph for at least 10 minutes to complete the calibration.
If you don’t have access to a scan tool, you can still reset most Chrysler TPMS systems using the vehicle’s onboard controls. However, this method is more time-consuming and less precise than using a scan tool.
Chrysler TPMS Reset Without a Scan Tool
The TPMS reset procedure varies slightly between Chrysler models. In general, you’ll use the ignition key and gas pedal to put the system into relearn mode, then drive at highway speeds to relearn the sensor positions.
Here are the steps for some popular late-model Chryslers:
Chrysler 300 (2011-2020), Dodge Charger (2011-2020), Dodge Challenger (2015-2020):
- Inflate all tires to the pressure listed on the door jamb placard.
- Turn the ignition to the “Run” position (one click before starting engine).
- Press and release the gas pedal three times within 10 seconds.
- The horn will chirp once and the TPMS light will blink. This indicates the system is in relearn mode.
- Drive the vehicle at 15+ mph for at least 20 minutes to complete the relearn process. The TPMS light will turn off when complete.
Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-2020), Dodge Durango (2011-2020):
- Ensure tires are properly inflated, then turn ignition to “Run.”
- Press and release the gas pedal slowly three times within 10 seconds.
- The horn will sound and the TPMS light will flash when the system enters relearn mode.
- Drive at 50+ mph for 10-20 minutes until the TPMS light turns off. This indicates relearn is complete.
Ram 1500 (2013-2018), Ram 2500/3500 (2014-2018):
- Inflate all tires to spec, then turn key to “On” (not “Run”).
- Press and release gas pedal three times.
- The horn will chirp and the TPMS light will blink when relearn mode is active.
- Drive at 15+ mph for about 20 minutes. TPMS light will turn off when sensors are relearned.
For other models not listed, refer to the owner’s manual or a factory service guide for the specific relearn procedure. If the auto relearn isn’t working, you may need to do a manual relearn with a TPMS tool.
Troubleshooting Chrysler TPMS Reset Issues
If you’ve tried to reset your Chrysler’s TPMS and the warning light is still on, here are a few things to check:
- Tire pressure – Double check that all tires are inflated to the pressure on the door placard. Don’t forget to check the spare tire too.
- Sensor batteries – TPMS sensors have internal batteries that last around 5-10 years. If a sensor isn’t responding, its battery may be dead and need replacement.
- Damaged sensors – Visually inspect the sensors and valve stems for physical damage or corrosion. A damaged sensor will need to be replaced.
- Relearn not completed – Drive at the speed and duration specified in the relearn instructions. If you don’t drive long enough, the relearn may fail.
- Sensor IDs not learned – If you used a scan tool to relearn sensor IDs but one or more didn’t take, try the relearn again. You may need to hold the tool at a slightly different angle.
If you’ve checked all of the above and are still having issues, there may be a problem with the TPMS control module or wiring. At this point it’s best to have the system diagnosed by a professional.
The Importance of Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure
Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your vehicle’s safety, performance, and efficiency. Here’s why:
- Safety – Underinflated tires have more rolling resistance and build up more heat, increasing the risk of a blowout. They also have less traction and stability, especially in wet conditions.
- Tire wear – Tires that are under or overinflated will wear unevenly and more quickly. Keeping them at the specified pressure maximizes tire life.
- Fuel economy – Soft tires require more energy to roll down the road, which reduces fuel efficiency. Keeping tires at the proper pressure can improve gas mileage by 0.6% on average.
- Handling – Properly inflated tires provide optimal braking, cornering, and overall handling. Under or overinflated tires will reduce responsiveness.
Check your tire pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold. Don’t forget to check the spare tire too. If you notice uneven wear or frequently need to add air to one tire, have it inspected for leaks or damage.
Final Words from Boss Erwin
Chrysler’s TPMS is a valuable safety feature that alerts you when a tire is dangerously low on air. By knowing how to reset and relearn the system when needed, you can ensure it’s working properly to keep you safe on the road.