Scion tC uses two different TPMS systems
The change happened mid-generation and affects resetting, relearning, and sensor maintenance.
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2005–2006 tC: had a physical TPMS reset button in the glovebox
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2007–2010 tC: button was removed, must use a scan tool
On the 2005–2010 Scion tC, there were two distinct types of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) depending on the model year: an indirect system on early cars (2005–2006) and a direct system on later cars (2007–2010). Both systems only trigger a warning light, they do not give you the actual PSI value for each tire.
Check out this valve stem cap TPMS monitoring system if you want to monitor PSI values for each invididual tire.
1. Indirect TPMS (2005–2006 Scion tC)
How it works
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This version DOES NOT use individual pressure sensors inside each tire.
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Instead, it leverages the ABS wheel speed sensors and vehicle software to estimate tire pressure. It assumes that a significantly under or over inflated tire will have a slightly different rolling diameter and thus rotate differently than properly inflated tires.
Characteristics
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No physical pressure sensors in the wheels — only the wheel speed/ABS sensors are used. NO PSI given value, just a warning light.
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TPMS warning light is triggered when the system detects differences in wheel rotation that indicate under OR over inflation.
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Requires the driver to reset/learn the new baseline whenever tires are rotated, replaced, or rebalance pressures.
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Simpler and cheaper but less precise than direct systems.
Restting the TPMS light on 2005-2010 Scion tC
- Set the correct tire pressure, 32-33 PSI.
- Key ON, engine OFF
- In the glove box, press and hold the TPMS reset button. Hold for 3–5 seconds. Release when the TPMS light blinks 3 times
2. Direct TPMS (2007–2010 Scion tC)
How it works
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Each wheel has its own dedicated pressure sensor mounted inside the tire (usually at the valve stem).
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These sensors measure the actual tire pressure (and often temperature) and transmit that data via RF to a receiver/module in the vehicle.
Characteristics
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Individual tire pressure sensing for each tire’s actual PSI..
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Requires unique sensor IDs to be registered with the TPMS receiver when sensors are installed or replaced.
Resetting the TPMS on 2007-2010 Scion tC
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Sensor IDs must be registered via OBD
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Done with:
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Dealer tool
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Some advanced DIY TPMS tools
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I keep a cheap Digital Tire Pressure gauge in my car for measuring tire pressure PSI
I also keep a 12v cigarette lighter air compressor in my trunk for emergency situations
I tend to stay away from battery powered tire inflators, but if you’re interested in something with great reviews chek out the Airmoto Tire Inflator and Portable Air Compressor on Amazon.
