How do you fix the TPMS on a Honda CRV?
The quickest path to a working TPMS is to ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressures and then relearn the system if needed. If a sensor or its battery has failed, replacement plus a relearn is usually required.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) helps alert you when a tire is underinflated or when a sensor is faulty. Because CR-V models vary by year and trim, the exact relearn steps can differ. This guide covers common approaches for recent CR-V generations and what to do if a sensor needs replacement.
Understanding TPMS in a Honda CR-V
Direct versus indirect TPMS
Direct TPMS uses wheel-mounted sensors to measure actual air pressure in each tire, while indirect TPMS estimates pressure from wheel speed and ABS signals. Most modern CR-Vs use direct TPMS, but some configurations may rely on indirect data if sensors fail.
How TPMS is learned
After tire service or sensor replacement, the system must relearn the sensor IDs and establish baseline pressures. Many CR-Vs relearn automatically when tires are at the correct pressures and you drive for a certain distance; others require a manual reset through the menu or a reset button.
Diagnosing TPMS issues in a CR-V
Before attempting any relearn steps, verify the issue is truly sensor-related or a tire-pressure problem rather than a leak or damaged sensor.
- Check each tire with a reliable gauge and inflate to the door jamb specification (not the number on the sidewall). If the light stays on after inflation, proceed to the next checks.
- Inspect tires and valves for leaks, punctures, or damaged stems. Repair or replace as needed before relearning.
- Look for damaged wheels or visibly corroded TPMS sensors; damaged sensors can fail to report proper pressure.
- Consider sensor age. Direct TPMS sensors have a battery life typically around 5–7 years; older sensors may fail or report incorrectly.
- If tires were recently rotated or replaced, a relearn may be required so the system recognizes the correct sensor IDs.
Once proper tire pressures are restored and sensor status is confirmed, you can begin the relearn process or have a professional perform it if needed.
Relearning or resetting the TPMS on a Honda CR-V
Many CR-Vs offer two paths to relearning: a menu-driven procedure via the instrument cluster and a manual reset button (locations vary by year). The exact steps depend on model year and trim; refer to your owner's manual for your specific version.
- Inflate all four tires to the door placard pressures. Use a high-quality gauge to ensure accuracy.
- Turn the ignition to ON with the engine OFF (or start the engine if your model requires it). Access the TPMS relearn option through the instrument cluster settings, or use the dedicated TPMS reset button if your model has one.
- Select the TPMS Relearn option (or press and hold the reset button until the TPMS indicator blinks). Some models require the light to blink, then stay solid, while others simply confirm on the screen.
- Drive at a steady speed, typically around 30–50 mph, for 10–20 minutes to complete the relearn. Avoid aggressive driving during the relearn window.
- Check the TPMS warning light. If it goes off and remains off, the relearn was successful. If the light returns, repeat the steps or seek professional assistance.
If your vehicle cannot complete the relearn through these methods, or the light remains on after several attempts, you may have a sensor issue or a calibration fault requiring technician intervention.
What to do if a TPMS sensor is faulty or its battery is dead
Direct TPMS sensors include a battery that is not serviceable in most cases; sensors typically need to be replaced as a unit. If a sensor fails, you’ll usually replace the sensor on the affected wheel and perform a full system relearn afterward.
- Replace the faulty TPMS sensor on the affected wheel. In most CR-Vs, the sensor is integrated with the valve stem; some wheels require tire removal to access the sensor.
- Consider replacing sensors in two wheels or all four if multiple sensors are nearing end of life to simplify relearning and ensure consistent readings.
- After sensor replacement, perform the TPMS relearn using the method described above so the new sensor IDs are recognized by the system.
Note that sensor replacement often requires professional service or specialized TPMS tooling, and the technician may need to program the new sensor IDs to your vehicle. Costs can vary by year, trim, and location.
When to seek professional help
If you cannot complete a relearn after multiple attempts, or the TPMS light remains on after fixing tire pressures and sensor status, it’s time to visit a tire shop or Honda dealer for a diagnostic. They can read fault codes, verify sensor IDs, and reprogram or replace sensors as needed.
- Visit a tire shop or Honda dealer for a TPMS diagnostic and sensor check.
- Ask about sensor replacement costs and a full system relearn after installation.
Many providers can perform a quick TPMS relearn and sensor replacement in a single visit, but ensure they verify the entire system for accuracy.
Cost and maintenance considerations
Costs vary by model year, the number of sensors replaced, and regional labor rates. Relearn procedures are often included with tire service, while direct-sensor replacements incur the cost of a sensor plus labor. If your CR-V is approaching the end of sensor life, proactive replacement can prevent recurring warnings.
Summary
The TPMS on a Honda CR-V is typically revived by correctly inflating tires, performing a relearn, and replacing any faulty sensors when needed. By following the diagnostic steps, using the appropriate relearn method for your year, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can restore accurate tire pressure monitoring and help maintain safe driving conditions.
