How do I fix a TPMS error?

TPMS errors are usually resolved by inflating all tires to the vehicle’s recommended pressures and performing a TPMS relearn. If the warning persists, a faulty sensor or dead battery may require professional service.

What TPMS is and how it works

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) monitors the air pressure inside each tire and alerts you when one or more tires fall below the recommended level. Warnings can also occur if the system sensing or communication components have trouble. The goal is to prevent driving on underinflated tires, which can affect handling, fuel economy, and tire life.

Direct vs indirect TPMS

Direct TPMS uses sensors mounted in or on the valve stems of each wheel to provide actual pressure readings to the vehicle’s computer. Indirect TPMS relies on the car’s ABS wheel-speed sensors to infer pressure differences by analyzing rotation patterns and tire diameters. Both systems aim to warn you about improper tire pressure, but the repair approach can differ: direct systems may require sensor maintenance or replacement, while indirect systems often require calibration after tire work or wheel changes.

Step-by-step fix guide

Use this practical checklist to diagnose and resolve most TPMS errors without specialist tools. Follow in order starting with the easiest fixes.

1. Check the air pressure in all tires (including the spare, if your vehicle has a TPMS-equipped spare) with a reliable gauge. Inflate each tire to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure, usually listed on a placard inside the door jamb or in the owner’s manual.


2. Inspect tires for leaks, punctures, or slow leaks. If you find a damaged tire, have it repaired or replaced and recheck the pressures after the service.


3. After inflating to the correct pressures, perform a TPMS reset or relearn. The exact method varies by vehicle. Look up the owner’s manual or the settings menu for the TPMS or Tire Pressure Relearn option, and follow the on-screen prompts or prescribed steps. Many cars require a drive at a sustained speed (for example, 50–60 mph) for several minutes, or a specific button sequence.


4. Drive the car as recommended by the manual to allow the system to calibrate. If the light stays on, the system may still be sensing a pressure discrepancy or a sensor fault.


5. Inspect the TPMS sensors themselves. Direct TPMS sensors can fail or have weak batteries after about 5–10 years. Look for corrosion around valve stems, damaged sensors, or a battery that’s no longer holding a charge. If a sensor is suspected, replacement is often necessary and typically requires tire removal and sensor programming or pairing with the vehicle.


6. For indirect TPMS, ensure the calibration is correct. Indirect systems may require a specific relearn sequence or software update; in some cases, a dealer tool is needed to complete the recalibration.


7. Confirm with a diagnostic scan tool that the sensor IDs match and that there are no stored fault codes in the TPMS module. This helps verify you haven’t replaced a sensor without updating the system.

Concluding: If you followed these steps and the warning remains, or you notice ongoing tire pressure changes, schedule an appointment with a qualified technician. Persistent TPMS warnings can indicate a sensor failure, a damaged wheel, or a system fault that requires professional diagnosis and potentially a sensor replacement.

Common TPMS scenarios and tips

Real-world situations explain why TPMS warnings appear and how to handle them:

• After a tire rotation or wheel change, the system may need a relearn to recognize the new tire positions.


• When a tire develops a slow leak, the TPMS warning usually activates once the pressure drops below the threshold.


• If you replace a wheel or tire, ensure the new sensor is properly programmed and installed; otherwise, the system may misreport.

Note: Spare tires with TPMS sensors are uncommon on many modern vehicles; using a non-sensor spare can temporarily trigger warnings until a sensor-equipped tire is reinstalled.

Advanced considerations: keeping TPMS healthy

Understanding the nuances of your system can help prevent false alerts and unnecessary repairs. Regular tire maintenance, timely sensor replacement, and staying current with manufacturer relearn requirements will reduce the frequency of TPMS warnings.

Summary

Most TPMS errors come from tires not at the correct pressure or from a sensor needing attention. Start with checking pressures, repairing leaks, and performing the relearn procedure. If the warning persists, inspect or replace direct sensors or recalibrate indirect systems, and seek professional diagnosis when needed. Staying proactive with tire care keeps you safer on the road and can save time and money in the long run.

How much does it cost to repair a TPMS sensor?

The average cost to repair a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is between $70 and $250 per sensor, including parts and labor. Costs can vary depending on the vehicle, the type of sensor, and whether you choose a dealership, an independent mechanic, or a DIY approach. The total price depends on the number of sensors that need replacement, as it's common for other sensors to fail around the same time. 
Professional replacement

• Average cost: $70 to $250 per sensor 
• Dealership: Often more expensive due to higher labor rates, but uses certified technicians and OEM parts 
• Independent mechanic: Generally lower labor rates but ensure they have experience with TPMS systems 
• Other options: Some tire retailers like Costco or Sam's Club may offer lower prices, but costs can vary 

DIY replacement

• Cost: Significantly lower, only paying for the cost of the sensors 
• Sensor cost: Varies from $20 to $150 or more depending on the brand 
• Additional costs: May include the cost of tools, potting compound, valve stem mounting kits, and other parts 

Factors that affect the cost

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury or newer models may have more sophisticated and expensive sensors
• Type of sensor: Direct TPMS sensors are more expensive than indirect ones
• Number of sensors: Replacing multiple sensors can be cheaper per-sensor if you can get a package deal 

Can AutoZone fix TPMS sensors?

At AutoZone, we carry replacement TPMS sensors for most makes and models. And if you need help resetting the TPMS light, we can offer helpful advice or refer you to a shop in our professional network.

Can I fix my own TPMS?

Replacing a tire pressure sensor (TPMS sensor) is a task that can be handled by most do-it-yourself enthusiasts with the right tools and safety precautions.

How do I fix my TPMS sensor error?

To fix a tire pressure sensor fault, first check and inflate all tires to the correct pressure, then attempt a manual reset using the button or infotainment system, or by driving for 10-15 minutes at a consistent speed like 50 mph. If the light persists, the sensor is likely faulty and needs replacement, which involves a professional mechanic dismounting the tire to access and replace the sensor, a process similar to the one described in this YouTube video.
 
1. Inflate your tires to the correct pressure 

• Check the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. 
• Inflate all tires, including the spare if it has a sensor, to the correct pressure, ideally when the tires are cold. 

2. Attempt a TPMS reset 

• Manual reset: Turn the ignition to the 'ON' position without starting the engine. Press and hold the TPMS reset button (usually under the steering wheel or in the glove box) until the light blinks three times. Some vehicles may require navigating through the infotainment system to a "TPMS calibration" or "reset" option.
• Automatic reset: Drive the vehicle for at least 5-15 minutes at a consistent speed of 50 mph to allow the system to self-calibrate. 

3. Address a persistent fault 

• If the warning light remains on after resetting and driving, the sensor is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. 
• Faulty sensors are often due to a dead battery, which has a lifespan of about 7–10 years. 
• Replacing a TPMS sensor requires a professional to dismount the tire from the wheel, replace the sensor, and then likely use a specialized tool to program or relearn the new sensor to the vehicle's system. 
• A professional can also use a TPMS reset tool to diagnose the exact issue, which may be due to a faulty sensor or external interference. 

This video explains how to replace a TPMS sensor: 48sRepair GeekYouTube · Dec 25, 2020