How to fix check TPMS system?

The check TPMS warning usually means a tire is under-inflated or a wheel sensor has failed. Start by verifying tire pressures to the vehicle’s recommended PSI, inspect tires and sensors, and perform any available relearn. If the warning persists, you may need a sensor replacement or professional diagnostic.

Understanding TPMS and why warnings appear

TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. There are two mainstream types in use today. Direct TPMS uses wheel-mounted sensors with batteries to transmit real-time pressure readings. Indirect TPMS relies on ABS wheel-speed sensors to infer a pressure change from changes in tire circumference and rotation. Warnings typically appear when a tire’s pressure falls outside the manufacturer’s specified range or when a sensor is faulty, which can happen as sensors age or after a tire service.

Quick home checks to diagnose and potentially reset the warning

These steps handle common, low-cost fixes you can attempt before more involved diagnostics.

• Check all four tires (and the spare, if equipped) with a reliable gauge and inflate to the vehicle’s recommended PSI, usually printed on the door jamb or in the owner's manual. Recheck after a short drive.


• Inspect tires for obvious signs of damage, slow leaks, punctures, or uneven wear that could trigger a low-pressure warning.


• Inspect valve stems and caps for damage or corrosion. Replace missing or damaged caps because they protect the sensor and help seal the valve.


• Check for a blown TPMS fuse in the vehicle's fuse box (some models place the TPMS fuse separately). A blown fuse can disable the system and illuminate the warning.


• If you recently had tires rotated or replaced, ensure a TPMS relearn was performed. Without a relearn, the system may not recognize new sensor IDs.


• Use the vehicle’s TPMS reset/relearn option if available in the settings menu or instrument cluster. Consult the owner's manual for the exact procedure for your model.

A note: If the light remains on after these checks, the issue is more likely a faulty sensor, a dead battery in a wheel sensor, a slow tire leak, or a failed relearn. A professional inspection is advised.

When to replace sensors or seek professional service

Persistent warnings after basic checks or a known sensor issue typically means you should visit a tire shop or dealership for diagnosis and repair. Common scenarios include the following.

• The TPMS light stays on after you’ve inflated all tires and attempted a relearn. This suggests a sensor or ECU issue rather than under-inflation alone.


• You notice a dead sensor battery or physical damage to a wheel sensor or its wiring.


• A tire service or wheel change didn’t preserve the sensor IDs, leading to an ID mismatch and a relearn failure.


• You hear leaks or see corrosion around the valve stems; a leaky or damaged sensor may need replacement.


• A code readout from a TPMS-capable scan tool indicates a specific sensor failure or communication fault.

In these cases, a professional can replace faulty sensors, program new sensor IDs into the TPMS module, and complete any required relearn to restore proper operation.

TPMS relearn procedures by vehicle type

Because TPMS implementation varies by manufacturer, there isn’t a single universal method. Here are the common pathways you might encounter.

Direct TPMS: wheel-mounted sensors

Most modern cars use direct TPMS sensors in each wheel. Relearning typically involves one of these paths: automatic learn by driving, a manual relearn via the vehicle’s settings, or a relearn with a hand-held tool at the wheels. Always start with verifying all tires are correctly inflated to spec.

Indirect TPMS: ABS-based inference

Indirect TPMS doesn’t use tire-pressure sensors in the wheels; it uses ABS wheel-speed data to infer pressure changes. Relearns, if required, are usually automatic after tires are correctly inflated and the vehicle has been driven for a period, though some models may require a service tool or menu option.

When to seek dealer or tire-shop assistance for relearn

Some vehicles require a diagnostic tool to program new sensor IDs or to perform a manufacturer-specific relearn procedure. If your light won’t reset after following at-home steps, a professional can perform the relearn with the correct tool and update the TPMS control module accordingly.

Summary

A functioning TPMS helps protect tire life and vehicle safety by warning you when pressures fall outside recommended ranges. Start with basic checks—inflate to spec, inspect tires and valves, and attempt a relearn. If the warning persists, expect to replace faulty sensors or complete a professional relearn. Regular maintenance and timely tire service will reduce the likelihood of persistent TPMS issues.

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.

Why is my TPMS light on but tires are fine?

Your TPMS light may be on despite your tires being properly inflated due to a malfunctioning sensor, a dead sensor battery, a recent tire rotation, or extreme weather conditions. A sensor can become damaged from impacts or age, a dead battery can prevent it from sending a signal, and in cold weather, air contracts, which can trigger the warning. A recent tire rotation might also cause a temporary alert that requires a reset. 
This video explains some common reasons why your TPMS light might be on even if your tires appear to be fine: 58sFixITYouTube · Jan 18, 2025
Common reasons for the TPMS light to stay on

• Sensor Malfunction: The sensor itself can be faulty due to age, damage from impacts, or corrosion, causing it to send false readings. 
• Dead Sensor Battery: Each TPMS sensor has a small battery that typically lasts 5 to 10 years before it needs replacement. 
• Weather Changes: Cold temperatures cause air to contract, leading to a drop in tire pressure that can trigger the light even if the tires appear fine. 
• Recent Tire Rotation or Replacement: If the tires were recently rotated or replaced, the system may need a few miles of driving or a manual reset to recognize the new tire positions. 
• Valve Stem Issues: A slow leak from the valve stem can cause the pressure to drop gradually, keeping the light on. 
• Improperly Inflated Spare: If you recently used your spare tire and didn't inflate it, the system may trigger the light. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check your TPMS settings and perform a manual reset: 52sHondaYouTube · May 15, 2019
What to do

1. Check all tires and the spare: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and the spare. Inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. 
2. Drive for a few minutes: After inflating the tires, drive the vehicle for 10-20 miles to give the system time to recalibrate. Some systems will reset automatically, while others may require a manual reset. 
3. Perform a manual reset: Some vehicles have a "TPMS Reset" button, often located in the glove box or on the dashboard. Pressing and holding this button for a few seconds may resolve the issue. 
4. Seek professional help: If the light remains on, take your vehicle to a professional to diagnose the problem. A mechanic can pinpoint a faulty sensor or a slow leak that is not immediately visible. 

How do I fix a TPMS error?

To fix a TPMS error, first, check and adjust the air pressure in all tires, including the spare. If the light remains on, reset the system by holding the TPMS button (often under the steering wheel) or using the dashboard menu, then drive for 5-10 minutes to allow it to recalibrate. If the error persists, a sensor may be damaged or have a dead battery, requiring replacement, according to this YouTube video and Alderson Autos.
 
1. Check and adjust tire pressure 

• Find the correct pressure: Look for a sticker on the driver's door jamb or in your owner's manual to find the recommended PSI for your tires.
• Check the pressure: Use a tire gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and the spare.
• Inflate the tires: Add air to any tires that are underinflated, being careful not to overfill them. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check and adjust tire pressure: 55sSilver CymbalYouTube · Jan 20, 2020
2. Reset the TPMS 

• Locate the reset button or menu: Some cars have a physical button, often located under the steering wheel, while others use the dashboard or infotainment screen. Consult your owner's manual for the exact location if you can't find it. 
• Initiate the reset: Press and hold the physical button until the TPMS light blinks, or follow the on-screen instructions to start the reset process. 
• Drive to recalibrate: Drive for at least 5-10 minutes at a speed of around 50 mph to allow the system to recalibrate. 

3. Troubleshoot further issues

• If the light stays on: The sensor may be malfunctioning or have a dead battery, which cannot be repaired and must be replaced. 
• Contact a professional: A tire shop or dealership can diagnose the problem and replace the sensor if necessary. This often involves removing the tire to access the sensor on the wheel.