How to fix TPMS service required?
If your vehicle's dashboard displays a "TPMS Service Required" warning light, it indicates an issue with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This system is designed to alert you when the tire pressure in one or more of your tires is low, helping to prevent potential safety issues and improve fuel efficiency. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to address this problem.
Understand the TPMS Service Required Warning
The TPMS service required warning typically appears when there is a problem with the TPMS sensors or the system itself. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a malfunctioning sensor, a sensor battery that needs replacement, or an issue with the TPMS wiring or components.
Check Tire Pressure
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in all four tires, including the spare tire if your vehicle has one.
- Ensure that the tire pressure matches the recommended levels specified in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker.
- If the tire pressure is low, inflate the tires to the proper PSI (pounds per square inch) level.
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for the proper functioning of the TPMS.
Inspect the TPMS Sensors
- Visually inspect the TPMS sensors, which are typically located on the valve stems of each tire.
- Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or loose connections.
- If a sensor appears to be malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
TPMS sensors have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced periodically, usually every 5-10 years.
Reset the TPMS System
- Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific steps to reset the TPMS system.
- This typically involves driving the vehicle at a certain speed for a specific distance to allow the system to relearn the tire pressure values.
- After resetting the system, the TPMS service required warning should turn off.
Resetting the TPMS system can help resolve issues related to sensor malfunctions or other system-related problems.
Seek Professional Assistance
If the TPMS service required warning persists after following the steps above, it's recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified automotive technician. They can diagnose the underlying issue and provide the necessary repairs or replacements to restore the proper functioning of your vehicle's TPMS.
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 to reset TPMS service required?
Process will begin if there's no button the procedure is done with the display audio. Begin by pressing the home. Button then touch settings touch vehicle next and then TPMS calibration.
Can AutoZone reset my TPMS sensor?
Yes, AutoZone can help you with TPMS issues. While they sell the necessary tools for you to reset the system yourself, they may not be able to perform the reset for you on the spot. You can visit an AutoZone store to get advice, purchase a TPMS tool, or have a technician look at it.
This video demonstrates how to reset the TPMS sensor without a tool: 58sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Apr 12, 2020
How AutoZone can help with TPMS
- They sell the tools: AutoZone has TPMS scan and programming tools, including those that can read and clear codes, and relearn sensor information, which you can use to reset the system yourself.
- They offer advice: AutoZone staff can provide advice on how to troubleshoot and reset the TPMS light yourself.
- They sell replacement parts: If you have a faulty sensor, AutoZone carries a wide variety of replacement TPMS sensors for different makes and models.
- They can perform a professional reset: Some AutoZone locations or their professional network may offer services to diagnose and reset the TPMS system if you are unable to do it yourself.
You can watch this video to learn how to program a TPMS sensor using a tool: 59sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Jun 7, 2022
What to do at AutoZone
- If the light is still on after you have added air, the sensors may need to be reset or replaced.
- Visit your local AutoZone to get a TPMS tool and follow the instructions to reset the system.
- If you are unable to reset the light with a tool, you may have a faulty sensor that needs to be replaced.
- Ask the AutoZone staff for assistance or advice, or ask if they can recommend a professional shop in their network that can perform the service for you.
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.
