What does service TPMS mean?

In short, a Service TPMS message means your Tire Pressure Monitoring System needs attention—usually because a tire is underinflated or the sensor/system has a fault that requires service.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) monitors the air pressure in your tires and warns you if it drops below the recommended level or if a sensor or system fault is detected. There are two main implementations: direct TPMS, with sensors in each tire, and indirect TPMS, which estimates pressure using wheel-speed data. A service warning can indicate a simple issue you can fix, or a fault that requires professional diagnosis.

Understanding TPMS and how it informs drivers

Direct vs indirect TPMS

Direct TPMS uses pressure sensors mounted in each wheel to report exact pressures to the vehicle's computer. Indirect TPMS relies on wheel-speed and ABS data to guess when a tire's pressure is low. Direct systems typically require sensor battery replacements every 5–10 years, while indirect systems rely on calibration and relearning after tires are rotated or replaced.

Common reasons a Service TPMS message might appear include:

• One or more tires may be underinflated beyond the threshold


• A direct TPMS sensor or its battery could be failing


• The TPMS receiver or vehicle control module may be malfunctioning


• Tires were recently rotated or replaced and the system requires relearning/calibration


• There could be slow leaks or punctures not yet detected


• Sensor damage from mounting/dismounting wheels or corrosion


• Software updates or diagnostics that require system recalibration

In summary, a Service TPMS warning points to either a low tire or a system fault that needs diagnosis. Driving with unmonitored or underinflated tires can affect safety and fuel efficiency.

What to do when you see Service TPMS

Before taking action, check the tires’ cold inflation pressures against the vehicle’s recommended values (found on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual).

• Check all tires, including the spare if your system monitors it, with a reliable gauge.


• Inflate any underinflated tires to the recommended pressure.


• Inspect tires for leaks, punctures, or damage and repair or replace as needed.


• Perform a TPMS relearn/calibration if your vehicle requires it, following the owner’s manual or guidance from a service tool.


• If the light remains after inflation and relearning, have a technician diagnose with a TPMS scan tool to check sensors, battery life, and the control module. Replace faulty components as needed.

These steps help determine whether the issue is a simple pressure change or a deeper sensor fault that requires professional service.

Summary

Service TPMS signals that the tire pressure monitoring system needs attention. It can be triggered by underinflated tires or by a fault in the system’s sensors or electronics. Regularly verify tire pressures, understand whether your system is direct or indirect, and seek professional diagnosis if the warning persists after basic checks and relearning.

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. 

Can you still drive your car if it says service tire monitor system?

And safety conscious drivers. Today we're tackling the question is it safe to drive with the service tire monitor. System the answer is a resounding.

What does it mean when your car says TPMS service required?

"TPMS service required" means there is a problem with your vehicle's Tire Pressure Monitoring System that goes beyond just low tire pressure and needs professional attention. This warning indicates an issue like a faulty sensor, a dead sensor battery, or a communication error, rather than a simple need to add air. While you should still check your tire pressure, the "service" message points to a system malfunction that requires a diagnostic check and repair. 
What to do when you see this message

• Check your tire pressure first: Use a pressure gauge to ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended PSI, which is listed on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. 
• Visit a mechanic: Even if the pressure is correct, the warning indicates a system issue that needs to be diagnosed and fixed by a professional. 
• Don't ignore it: A malfunctioning TPMS means you won't be alerted to future low-pressure situations, which can be a safety risk. 

Is it OK to drive with TPMS light on?

It is not safe to drive with a TPMS light on, as it indicates a tire is significantly underinflated (at least 25% below the recommended pressure). While you may be able to drive short distances, it's best to pull over as soon as possible to check your tire pressure with a gauge and inflate it to the recommended level. Ignoring the light can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and a dangerous tire blowout. 
This video explains why it's bad to drive with low tire pressure: 55sABC11YouTube · Dec 13, 2017
What to do when the TPMS light comes on

• Don't ignore it: The TPMS light is a warning about a potentially unsafe condition and should not be ignored. 
• Pull over safely: As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road. 
• Check your tire pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in all four tires. Check the recommended pressure on the sticker located on the driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. 
• Inflate if necessary: If a tire is low, inflate it to the recommended pressure. If it was just a minor temperature drop, this may resolve the issue. 
• If the light stays on: If the light remains on after you have filled the tires or if all tires are at the correct pressure, there may be a fault in the TPMS system itself. 
• See a mechanic: If the light continues to stay on, or if a tire consistently loses pressure, take your vehicle to a professional to have the system and tires inspected.