How to program TPMS on a Subaru?
As a car owner, understanding how to maintain your vehicle's systems is crucial for safety and performance. One important system in modern vehicles, including Subarus, is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This article will guide you through the steps to program the TPMS on your Subaru, ensuring that your tire pressure is always monitored accurately.
What is TPMS?
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is designed to alert drivers when tire pressure is too low, which can lead to unsafe driving conditions. In Subarus, the TPMS uses sensors located in each tire to monitor pressure levels and communicate with the vehicle's onboard computer.
Steps to Program TPMS on a Subaru
Programming the TPMS on your Subaru can be done easily with the following steps:
- Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools - You will need a TPMS tool, which can often be rented from auto parts stores, and your vehicle's key or key fob.
- Step 2: Turn on the Ignition - Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "On" position without starting the engine.
- Step 3: Access the TPMS Programming Mode - Depending on your Subaru model, you may need to press the TPMS reset button, usually located under the steering wheel or in the glove compartment. Hold it until the TPMS light blinks three times.
- Step 4: Activate Each Sensor - Use the TPMS tool to activate each tire sensor. This is typically done by placing the tool against the tire sidewall near the valve stem and following the tool's instructions.
- Step 5: Confirm Programming - After activating all sensors, turn the ignition off and then back on. The TPMS light should turn off, indicating successful programming.
Tips for Maintaining Your TPMS
To ensure your TPMS functions correctly, consider the following tips:
- Regularly Check Tire Pressure - Even with a functioning TPMS, it's good practice to manually check your tire pressure monthly.
- Replace Sensors as Needed - TPMS sensors have a limited lifespan, typically around 5-10 years. Replace them if you notice any issues.
- Be Aware of Temperature Changes - Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes, so monitor your tires during seasonal shifts.
Conclusion
Programming the TPMS on your Subaru is a straightforward process that can enhance your driving safety. By following these steps and maintaining your tire pressure, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition. If you encounter any difficulties or have further questions, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Subaru TPMS need to be programmed?
Subaru TPMS Replacement
This requires a new sensor to be fitted and the ECU to be reprogrammed with its unique ID and its position on the vehicle.
How do you pair a TPMS sensor?
Select the tire you want to pair scan the qr code on top of the sensor with the camera on your phone repeat for all remaining tires. Press the check mark to save. Your changes.
Can you program TPMS sensors yourself?
Follow the on-screen instructions on the TPMS tool to program each sensor to the vehicle's TPMS system. This process may involve inputting new sensor IDs or copying the old sensor's ID to the new sensor. Top of the line scan tools like Autel allow for "auto creation" where it takes care of all this automatically.
Can you program TPMS sensors before installing?
These sensors must be programmed with the proper protocol/application information for the vehicle before they can be installed in the tire, and then must be relearned to the vehicle. Unfortunately, some shops overlook the necessary relearn step mistakenly believing the sensor programming did the trick.
How to program a Subaru TPMS sensor?
Key Position Reset: Turn the key to the “On” position without starting the engine. Hold the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times, then start the car and wait 20 minutes for recalibration. The reset button is usually beneath the steering wheel, or consult your user's manual.
How long does it take for sensors to reset?
The car's internal computer only resets after a set period where it checks all of its sensors once more. The reset can happen automatically after around 10 to 20 cycles. A cycle is a phase where you turn on the car and turn it off again. For other vehicles, you'll have to drive around 50 to 100 miles before it resets.
Can you program TPMS before installing?
Aftermarket TPMS sensors that come as “programmable,” “universal” or “clone-able” must be programmed with the proper protocol/application information for the specific vehicle before they can be installed.
What type of TPMS does Subaru use?
After the TREAD Act was mandated in 2007, all vehicles manufactured in the United States beginning in 2008, must be installed with direct or indirect TPMS systems. The Subaru Crosstrek is manufactured with a direct TPMS system, which means TPMS sensors are installed in the wheel.
How to reset Subaru sensors?
Take a drive from South Salt Lake to Tooele at 50 mph or higher for 10 minutes to reset the sensor. Turn off your vehicle, then turn your key to the “On” position without starting your car. Since the TPMS lights on, hold down the TPMS reset button until the light blinks three times then release.
Does AutoZone program TPMS sensors?
If you have symptoms or it's time to replace your TPMS sensors, find the right match at AutoZone. We carry options that work for most makes and models, and our friendly staff can offer trustworthy advice on how to get it done, including programming.
