How do you fix a Tire Pressure Monitoring System?

The quickest fix is usually ensuring all tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, then resetting or relearning the TPMS. If the warning persists, a faulty sensor, dead sensor battery, or tire leak may require professional inspection or sensor replacement.

Understanding TPMS and why warnings occur

TPMS stands for tire pressure monitoring system. It monitors air pressure in each tire and alerts you when a tire is underinflated or when a sensor is malfunctioning. Warnings can be triggered by underinflation, slow leaks, damaged valves, sensor battery failure, or a failed relearn after tire changes or rotations. There are two main TPMS designs: direct TPMS, which uses sensors inside each tire, and indirect TPMS, which infers pressure status from ABS wheel-speed data.

Direct vs indirect TPMS

Direct TPMS provides live pressure readings from wheel-mounted sensors and usually stores tire IDs in the vehicle’s computer. Indirect TPMS relies on wheel-speed data from ABS sensors to flag potential underinflation, without measuring actual pressure in each tire. The repair steps overlap, but relearn procedures can differ between the systems.

DIY steps to diagnose and fix common TPMS issues

These routine checks address the majority of TPMS warnings tied to underinflation, leaks, or basic sensor issues. Start here before assuming a dead sensor.

• Check and inflate all tires to the vehicle’s recommended pressure, using a reliable gauge and the door jamb sticker or owner’s manual as reference. Note that some spare tires are not monitored by TPMS.


• Inspect tires for leaks, punctures, or bead leaks around the rim and valve stems; repair punctures or replace the tire if needed.


• Inspect valve stems and sensor components (caps, seals, and stems). Replace damaged caps or stems and ensure valve cores aren’t leaking.


• Look for wheel damage or corrosion that could affect sensor seating or readings and address any rim issues as needed.


• Attempt a TPMS reset or relearn if your vehicle supports it. After inflating to the correct pressure, drive as directed in the owner’s manual (often a highway drive at steady speed) or use the vehicle’s settings to initiate relearn; refer to the manual for exact steps.


• Be mindful of sensor battery life: direct TPMS sensors have batteries that typically last several years, but many designs require replacing the entire sensor when the battery wanes.

Following these steps resolves many warnings caused by underinflation or minor leaks. If the light remains after inflation and a relearn attempt, proceed to professional diagnostics.

When to seek professional help

Some TPMS problems require specialized tools and expertise. Consider professional service if you encounter any of the following indicators:

• The warning light remains on after inflating tires to the correct pressure and attempting a relearn.


• You detect persistent slow leaks, tire damage, or corroded valve stems that you cannot safely repair.


• You recently rotated or replaced wheels and the system cannot relearn despite following the manufacturer’s procedure.


• Sensor or battery issues are suspected, or you hear unfamiliar noises from the wheel area during driving.

A tire shop or dealership can diagnose with a TPMS scanner, identify the exact faulty sensor, replace or reprogram components as needed, and perform the official relearn for your vehicle.

Sensor replacement and system maintenance

Direct TPMS sensors are mounted in the wheel and communicate with the car’s ECU. If a sensor or its battery fails, you typically need to replace the sensor and then perform a relearn. The tire may also need to be removed, balanced, and reseated. Battery life for direct TPMS sensors generally ranges from about 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and climate.

In many cases, a technician will confirm whether the entire sensor needs replacement or if a simple valve stem repair suffices. Plan for a sensor replacement if the battery is depleted or the seal is compromised, and always recheck tire pressures after service.

Summary

TPMS helps prevent driving on underinflated tires, but it requires regular maintenance. Start with inflating tires to the correct pressure, inspect for leaks or damage, and attempt a relearn. If warnings persist, professional diagnostics will determine whether a sensor, battery, or wiring issue is at fault and whether sensor replacement or programming is required. Regular tire pressure checks and timely TPMS service can keep the system reliable and extend tire life.

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 tire pressure sensor?

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.

Is it worth replacing tire pressure sensors?

Yes, replacing tire pressure sensors is worthwhile for safety and efficiency, especially if they are 5–10 years old, have dead batteries, or are damaged. However, some drivers replace them only when a sensor fails, while others, especially those with seasonal tires, choose to bypass replacement to save on costs, though this may lead to the warning light remaining on. 
Reasons to replace tire pressure sensors

• Safety: Proper tire pressure is crucial for safe handling and to prevent blowouts. 
• Fuel efficiency: Underinflated tires can negatively impact your gas mileage. 
• Tire wear: Maintaining correct pressure extends the life of your tires. 
• Sensor lifespan: TPMS sensors have a lifespan of about 5 to 10 years, after which the internal battery may die or other components can fail. 
• Damage: Sensors can be damaged by corrosion or during tire changes. 

When to replace

• Warning light: If the TPMS warning light stays on even after you've inflated your tires to the correct pressure. 
• Inaccurate readings: If you're getting inconsistent or incorrect pressure readings. 
• Age: When the sensors are 5 years or older, as the battery life is likely ending. 
• During tire service: It's a good idea to have them inspected and potentially replaced when you get new tires to prevent future issues. 

Alternatives and considerations

• TPMS light on: If you don't replace the sensors, you will have to drive with the warning light on. Some regions may fail vehicle inspections if the light is illuminated. 
• Cost savings: You can save money by not replacing sensors, especially for seasonal tires. For example, some drivers skip replacement on their winter tires. 
• DIY vs. Professional: You can replace a single sensor if that's the only one that failed. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, take your car to a professional. 

How much does it cost to fix a tire pressure monitoring system?

The average cost to fix a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is between $50 and $250 per sensor, with the total depending on the vehicle's make and model, the type of sensor, and labor costs. You can also expect to pay between $100 and $150 per tire if replacing all four sensors at once, and labor can add $50 to $100 per sensor. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: TPMS sensors typically cost between $60 and $100 each, with some luxury vehicles requiring more expensive, specialized sensors. 
• Labor: Labor costs can range from $50 to $100 per sensor. Some shops may offer package deals for replacing all four sensors at once. 
• Other costs: Some repairs may require additional parts, such as service packs for the valve stem, which can cost around $5 to $10 per wheel. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle make and model: Newer or luxury vehicles may require more expensive or specialized sensors, driving up the cost. 
• Type of sensor: Direct TPMS sensors are more expensive than indirect sensors. 
• Labor rates: Labor costs vary depending on your location and the shop you choose (e.g., dealership vs. independent shop). 
• DIY vs. professional: You can save on labor costs by replacing the sensors yourself, though you may need to purchase a special tool to reprogram them. 

How to save money

• DIY: If you're comfortable with car repairs, you can purchase the parts online and replace the sensors yourself. 
• Shop around: Get quotes from multiple repair shops to compare prices. 
• Replace all at once: If your vehicle is due for new tires, consider replacing the TPMS sensors at the same time to save on labor costs. 
• Look for promotions: Some tire shops may offer discounts or package deals on TPMS sensor replacement. 

Before getting a repair, it's recommended to first check the tire pressure with a gauge and inflate or deflate the tires to the recommended levels to see if the light turns off automatically.