The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in your 2017 Subaru Impreza is a vital safety feature, alerting you to low tire pressure that could compromise handling and fuel efficiency. Understanding how to reset the TPMS after inflating your tires or rotating them is crucial. This guide provides a step-by-step process for resetting your 2017 Subaru Impreza's TPMS, covering both the direct method and the indirect method (through driving).
Understanding Your 2017 Subaru Impreza TPMS
Before diving into the reset process, let's briefly understand how the TPMS works. Your Impreza's TPMS uses sensors located inside each tire to monitor pressure. When pressure drops below a pre-set threshold, a warning light illuminates on your dashboard. This light is usually accompanied by a visual display showing the pressure in each tire (check your owner's manual for specifics). The reset procedure essentially tells the system to re-learn the current, correct tire pressures.
Method 1: The Direct TPMS Reset (Using the Vehicle's System)
This method involves using your vehicle's onboard computer system to directly reset the TPMS. This is generally the most reliable method, ensuring a clean and complete reset. However, the exact steps may vary slightly depending on your Impreza's trim level and infotainment system. Refer to your owner's manual for precise instructions specific to your vehicle's model.
Step-by-Step Guide (General Procedure):
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Inflate Tires: Ensure all your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Check the sticker on your driver's side doorjamb or your owner's manual for the correct pressure.
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Locate the TPMS Reset Option: Turn on your vehicle's ignition (don't start the engine). Navigate through your infotainment system's menus to locate the TPMS settings. This might be under a heading like "Vehicle Settings," "Maintenance," or "Tire Pressure." The exact location and menu names will be detailed in your owner's manual.
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Initiate the Reset: Once you've located the TPMS reset option, follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the reset. This usually involves confirming the action.
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Confirmation: After completing the reset procedure, the TPMS warning light should turn off, and the new tire pressures will be displayed on the dashboard after a short period. If the light remains on, consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic.
Method 2: The Indirect TPMS Reset (Through Driving)
This method relies on driving your vehicle to allow the TPMS to relearn the tire pressures. This is generally less reliable than the direct method but might work in certain situations.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Inflate Tires: As with the direct method, ensure your tires are inflated to the correct pressure.
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Drive the Vehicle: Drive your vehicle at a speed above 20 mph (32 km/h) for at least 10-15 minutes. This allows the TPMS sensors to transmit updated pressure readings to the vehicle's computer.
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Monitor the Warning Light: After driving, observe the TPMS warning light. If it remains illuminated, repeat the driving process or try the direct reset method.
Troubleshooting Your 2017 Subaru Impreza TPMS
If you've tried both methods and the TPMS warning light persists, several issues could be at play:
- Faulty TPMS Sensor: One or more sensors may be malfunctioning.
- Low Battery in Sensor: The battery in a TPMS sensor may need replacing.
- Incorrect Tire Pressure: Double-check your tire pressures to ensure they are accurate.
- Software Glitch: There might be a software issue with the vehicle's computer system.
In case of persistent problems, consult your owner's manual or visit a qualified Subaru mechanic for diagnosis and repair. They possess the tools and expertise to identify the root cause and restore your TPMS functionality.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always refer to your 2017 Subaru Impreza owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions related to your vehicle's TPMS.