Understanding the Symptoms of a Bad Tire Pressure Sensor
A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is a crucial component in ensuring your vehicle's safety. It alerts drivers to any issues with tire pressure, which, if not addressed, can lead to dangerous driving conditions. However, there can be instances where the TPMS sensor malfunctions. This article will help you identify the symptoms of a bad TPMS sensor and understand how to assess and resolve the issue.
Common Symptoms of a Bad TPMS Sensor
Without a TPMS tool to check the sensor data, the most noticeable symptom of a bad TPMS sensor is a flashing TPMS light. Some vehicles may have the TPMS light only flash during startup and then stay solidly illuminated, while others may have a flashing light throughout the entire journey. The intensity and behavior of the light can vary depending on the vehicle's design, but it usually indicates a problem with the sensor.
The most obvious symptom would be if your TPMS light is still illuminated even if you have the recommended tire pressure in your tires. Conversely, the TPMS light should illuminate if your tires don't have the recommended pressure. If the TPMS light stays illuminated regardless of the tire pressure, or if it fails to illuminate when expected, it indicates a possible issue with the TPMS sensor.
Another symptom to watch for is a lack of pressure reading from a tire that is still inflated. If your tire shows no pressure reading, especially if you know the tire is inflated, it might be a sign of a bad TPMS sensor. In such cases, manual tire pressure checks using a pre-calibrated tire pressure gauge can help you identify the actual tire pressure levels.
How to Diagnose and Resolve TPMS Sensor Issues
Before you suspect a complete failure of the TPMS, it's important to rule out simple issues such as incorrect tire pressure readings. Measure the tire pressures manually and compare them to the specifications in your vehicle's owner's manual. If the tire pressures are varied from the recommended levels, fill them to the correct pressure.
Once the tire pressures are correct, you need to reset the TPMS system. Loss of pressure readings can sometimes be resolved by simply clearing the TPMS codes using a vehicle service center or a TPMS reset tool. After resetting the system, check the tire pressures again. If the TPMS alarm or light reappears, it might indicate an issue with the TPMS sensor.
If you find that the TPMS sensor is not functioning correctly, you may need to replace it. Keep in mind that your vehicle's tire pressure is still your responsibility, and the TPMS is not a substitute for regular tire pressure checks. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for instructions on resetting the TPMS and maintaining proper tire pressure.
Causes of TPMS Sensor Failure
Tire pressure sensor malfunctions can occur due to several reasons, with environmental factors playing a significant role. For instance, exposure to corrosive substances like rock salt can cause the TPMS sensor to malfunction, producing false alarms indicating that more pressure is needed. Over time, corrosion can damage the sensor, leading to inaccurate readings or complete failure.
Regular maintenance and inspection of your TPMS system can help prevent these issues. Ensure that your tires are regularly checked for proper inflation and that the TPMS sensors are functioning correctly. Consider replacing the sensors if they have been exposed to harsh environments or if they show signs of corrosion or wear.
Conclusion
A properly functioning TPMS is essential for vehicle safety and can help prevent the risks associated with underinflated tires, such as increased fuel consumption, reduced fuel efficiency, and greater accident risk. By understanding the symptoms of a bad TPMS sensor and taking appropriate steps to diagnose and resolve issues, you can ensure that your vehicle remains safe and that you are maintaining the recommended tire pressure levels.