What does it mean when my car says check TPMS system?
When your car's dashboard displays the message "Check TPMS System," it indicates an issue with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This system is designed to alert you when the air pressure in one or more of your tires falls below the recommended level.
Understanding the TPMS System
The TPMS system in your car uses sensors installed in each wheel to constantly monitor the air pressure in your tires. When the pressure in any tire drops below a certain threshold, the system triggers a warning light or message on your dashboard, prompting you to check and address the issue.
Reasons for the "Check TPMS System" Warning
There are several reasons why your car's TPMS system may display the "Check TPMS System" warning:
- Low Tire Pressure: One or more of your tires may have low air pressure, which can be caused by a slow leak, puncture, or simply natural pressure loss over time.
- Sensor Malfunction: The TPMS sensor in one or more of your tires may be malfunctioning, preventing the system from accurately detecting the tire pressure.
- System Malfunction: There could be an issue with the TPMS system itself, such as a problem with the wiring, control module, or other components.
If you see the "Check TPMS System" warning, it's important to address the issue as soon as possible to ensure your safety and maintain proper tire performance.
What to Do When the "Check TPMS System" Warning Appears
When you see the "Check TPMS System" warning, follow these steps:
- Check Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in each of your tires. Inflate any underinflated tires to the recommended pressure, which can be found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker.
- Inspect for Tire Damage: Visually inspect your tires for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could be causing the air pressure loss.
- Reset the TPMS System: After addressing any tire pressure or damage issues, you may need to reset the TPMS system. Refer to your owner's manual for the specific steps to do this.
- Seek Professional Assistance: If the "Check TPMS System" warning persists or you're unable to resolve the issue, it's best to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic, who can diagnose and repair any TPMS-related problems.
By understanding the meaning of the "Check TPMS System" warning and taking the appropriate steps to address the issue, you can help ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle's tires.
How do you fix your TPMS system?
Drive your car above 50 mph for 10-15 minutes. This resets the TPMS system by generating heat in the tires, which helps recalibrate the sensors and forces them to register the updated or accurate pressure readings.
Why does my car say check TPMS?
Your car is saying "check TPMS" because there is an issue with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, most often caused by low tire pressure, which can be from slow leaks, cold weather, or a faulty sensor. You should first check all four tires and the spare (if equipped) with a pressure gauge and inflate them to the recommended PSI, which is usually on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb. If the light persists, it indicates a problem with the TPMS sensors themselves.
Common causes
- Low tire pressure: This is the most frequent reason. It can be due to gradual air loss, a small leak, or a sudden drop in temperature.
- Temperature changes: Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, which can trigger the light even if there isn't a leak.
- Faulty TPMS sensor: A sensor can fail over time, often due to a dead battery, which will cause the light to come on.
- Tire damage: A puncture, crack, or other damage to a tire can lead to a slow or rapid loss of air pressure.
This video explains how TPMS works and the common causes of a TPMS light, including low tire pressure and faulty sensors: 1mKies MotorsportsYouTube · Feb 25, 2019
What to do
- Check your tires: Use a reliable pressure gauge to check the air pressure in all four tires and your spare. The correct pressure can be found on the sticker in your driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual.
- Inflate to the correct pressure: If any tires are low, inflate them to the recommended PSI.
- Check for leaks: If the pressure is low, look for any signs of a puncture or damage to the tire or valve stem.
- Address the warning: If the light stays on after inflating the tires, it suggests a system malfunction, likely a bad sensor.
- Visit a professional: If you've confirmed your tire pressure is correct, a professional can diagnose and replace a faulty TPMS sensor.
How much should it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor?
Replacing a single tire pressure sensor (TPMS) typically costs $50 to $250, depending on factors like the vehicle make and model, sensor type, and labor costs. Replacing all four sensors can be more cost-effective per sensor, with total costs potentially ranging from $400 to over $950 depending on whether you buy OEM or aftermarket parts and the labor rate of the shop.
Cost breakdown
- Parts: A single sensor can cost anywhere from $20 to over $100, with OEM sensors being more expensive than aftermarket options.
- Labor: Expect to pay between $50 and $100 in labor per sensor for installation. Some shops may offer package deals for replacing all four at once.
- Total cost for one sensor: Combining parts and labor, the cost for one sensor can range from $50 to $250.
- Total cost for all four: Replacing all four sensors could cost $400 to $950 or more, especially at a dealership.
How to save money
- Purchase parts yourself: Buy your own sensors from a parts store or online and have a tire shop install them.
- Wait for new tires: If you plan to get new tires soon, replace the TPMS sensors at the same time to combine labor costs.
- Shop around: Get quotes from different independent mechanics and tire shops, as prices can vary significantly.
Other considerations
- Aftermarket vs. OEM: Aftermarket sensors can be cheaper, but they may have compatibility issues or a shorter lifespan.
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury or newer vehicles may require more expensive or specialized sensors.
- DIY: If you have the right tools, you can replace the sensor yourself, but you'll need a special tool to activate the new sensor after installation.
Can I still drive my car if the TPMS light is on?
You can drive short distances with a TPMS light on, but you should not continue driving without addressing the issue, as it indicates low tire pressure which can be a safety risk. Driving with underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, reduced braking, uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and in the worst case, a tire blowout.
This video explains why it's dangerous to drive with the TPMS light on: 1mABC11YouTube · Dec 13, 2017
What to do when the TPMS light is on
- Reduce speed and pull over: As soon as it's safe, pull over to check your tires.
- Check tire pressure: Use a reliable tire gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and compare it to the recommended pressure on the sticker on your driver's side doorframe or in your owner's manual.
- Inflate tires: Add air to any tires that are low. The light should turn off after driving a short distance as the system resets.
- If the light is blinking: A blinking light often means there is a malfunction with the TPMS system itself, not just low pressure. You should have the system inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible.
Why you shouldn't ignore the TPMS light
- Safety: Low tire pressure affects your vehicle's handling and braking, making it more difficult to control, especially in emergencies.
- Tire damage: Driving on underinflated tires can cause them to overheat and wear down unevenly and prematurely.
- Fuel efficiency: Your car's fuel efficiency decreases when tires are not properly inflated.
- Blowout risk: In severe cases, the stress and heat from driving on severely underinflated tires can lead to a catastrophic tire failure.
