Everything You Need To Know
As the automobile becomes more computerized, the additional systems require more fail-safes and warning lights. When a fault or Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored, a corresponding warning light is illuminated. This is to alert the driver that a particular system is not operating as it should and will need to be repaired. Other warning lights are designed to alert the driver of a fluid condition, whether it’s low or is due for service. In the case of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), the low tire pressure light is to alert the driver that one or more of the tires are reading a low tire pressure. The system can also indicate if one of the sensors is not responding. This system was federally mandated in the US in 2007, requiring all newly built vehicles to have a form of tire pressure monitoring. Let’s cover all there is to know about the tire pressure warning light, which will be applicable for everything from budget models like a Chevrolet Spark to a luxury model like a BMW X5.
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System Overview
Federally mandated in 2007, the goal was to improve fuel economy and safety. The tire pressure monitoring system is fairly basic in its design. There are two main variants: ‘direct sensing’ and ‘indirect sensing’. A direct sensing system will use tire pressure sensors inside the wheel assembly that read the tire pressure and send it to a receiver. When the tire pressure falls below the designated threshold, the TPMS module will illuminate the low tire pressure warning light or symbol. An indirect system will use the wheel speed sensors to indicate a low tire pressure. When a tire has low pressure, its size is reduced, causing it to rotate at a faster speed than a tire that’s at the proper specification. This causes the module to illuminate the low tire pressure warning light.
Tire Pressure Warning Light
The tire pressure warning light is yellow and is in the shape of a deflated tire with an exclamation point at the center. It’s not uncommon for people to mistake this light as a check engine or maintenance reminder light. The tire pressure warning light has two modes; flashing and steady. A flashing tire pressure warning light will likely indicate a sensor is not communicating. A steady tire pressure light will indicate one or more tires have low pressure. If the tire pressure light is flashing, then turns steady when you first start the vehicle, it’s possible a sensor is not communicating as it should.
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Tire Pressure Threshold And Initialization
Some vehicles are equipped with a tire pressure button. This button has different functions depending on the vehicle. On some vehicles, the button resets or initializes the system; on others, it sets the threshold pressure for the system. The tire pressure threshold is a specific point at which the tire pressure warning light will be illuminated. Typically, tire pressure thresholds are set at around 30 psi and the low pressure warning light will not come on until the tire drops below 23 psi. Most indirect sensing vehicles will need the TPMS initialized after the tires have been rotated, replaced, or when the tire pressures have been reset.
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How To Fix A Tire Pressure Warning Light
The first step in repairing tire pressure warning lights is to identify whether the light is on due to a system issue such as a bad sensor, or if it’s due to a tire with low pressure. When the tire pressure warning light is illuminated, we recommend checking all your tire pressures first, including the spare.
Direct sensing vehicles with a full-size spare can be equipped with a tire pressure sensor.
If your tire pressure warning light is on and NOT blinking, odds are it’s due to a tire or tire with low pressure. If the tire pressure warning light is on and blinking, you will likely have a system or sensor issue. You can have your TPMS codes pulled from an automotive repair shop or dealership service department. On most vehicles, you’ll have to take the vehicle to a shop for repair as sensor replacement requires dismounting the tire. There are ways to replace a sensor without fully dismounting the tire, but without the proper equipment, you can damage the wheel assembly. For this reason, we recommend letting the pros handle the repairs.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Tire Pressure Warning Light?
In most scenarios, the fix will be airing up the tires to their designated specification. Tire pressures should be checked monthly. You can set tire pressures for free at most gas stations and most repair shops offer free air and/or do not charge to set tire pressures. If it’s found that your tire has a puncture and the tire needs to be repaired, you can fix it with a tire repair kit or pay to have it done. A tire repair can cost anywhere from $15 to $65, depending on the repair method. If it’s found that the tire needs a new pressure sensor, RepairPal estimates the repair will cost between $214 and $268. More serious repairs, such as the replacement of a TPMS module, can cost over $300.
|
Estimated Replacement Costs |
|
|---|---|
|
Pressure sensor |
$214 – $268 |
|
TPMS module |
Over $300 |
|
Tire repair |
$15 – $65 |
Why is my TPMS light on, but my tires are fine?
There are a couple of potential causes for this scenario:
- The threshold pressure may need to be reset.
- The system may need to be re-initialized.
- A sensor may be faulty.
- The system may have a DTC stored.
How do I fix my TPMS light?
- Set the tire pressures to specification.
- Re-initialize the system.
- Replace a pressure sensor.
- Perform system repairs.
Can I ignore the TPMS light?
Driving with an underinflated tire can be a serious safety risk. If a blowout occurs while driving, you can lose control of your vehicle. Additionally, your fuel mileage will decrease with a low-pressure tire. For these reasons, we recommend you not drive with an illuminated tire pressure warning light.
I want to know how to fix a TPMS sensor?
Fixing a TPMS sensor will require replacing it. Tire pressure sensors have internal batteries that have a life expectancy of 5–7 years. If your repair shop offers them, Autel makes a great universal sensor that works for all makes and models that is a fraction of the cost compared to OE replacement sensors.
