Everything You Need to Know About TPMS Sensors: Maintenance, Replacement, and Benefits
- Rema Tip Top
- Sep 18
- 4 min read
Modern cars come equipped with smart safety systems. TPMS sensors are one such vital safety feature. They keep an eye on your tyre pressure and give you a warning when something is amiss. This guide covers the care and replacement of these sensors, explaining why they are worth having for safety and financial reasons. There is a discrepancy between when to seek professional help and when to save money by going DIY.
What are TPMS sensors?
The acronym stands for Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. They are tiny systems installed inside or near wheels to measure air pressure continuously. There are two types: One is direct, which operates with sensors located inside every tyre and detects the pressure very accurately. The other is indirect, and it uses the wheel speed sensors of the vehicle to detect a pressure drop. Such direct systems provide much more accurate readings but are expensive to fix. Incorrectly identifying your system type can lead to incorrect decisions about maintenance and repairs.
Why TPMS matters: safety, cost, and compliance
These sensors do three important jobs for you. First, they prevent blowouts by warning you when pressure gets dangerously low. Maintaining correct tyre pressure keeps your car stable and prevents sudden tyre failures. Secondly, they save you money. Tyres that are properly inflated last longer and use less fuel. Under-inflated tyres wear quickly and force the engine to work harder. Third, many countries require working TPMS systems by law. A broken system might mean you can't pass vehicle inspections.
When debating whether to fix your tyres yourself or use a professional, understanding the options for DIY vs professional tyre repair can be very helpful, especially with sensor-equipped tyres.
Best recommended practices for maintenance
A simple refinement ensures the smooth running of your Tyre pressure sensors for years.
Check your tyre pressure monthly and recall to recalibrate the sensors with the change of seasons.
Check on valve stems and caps, and replace them if rusted or damaged.
Do not forget that the sensor batteries have a life span of 5-10 years, and always watch for signs that might warn of failure, such as constant alerts.
Clean the sensor areas during tyre changes and protect them from dirt and chemicals.
Make sure the technicians use the right torque settings during rotation to avoid sensor damage.
If the problem cannot be fixed by maintenance, then it's time for consideration of a replacement.
When to replace TPMS sensors
Some clear signs tell you when sensors need replacing. Constant-low pressure warnings that don't match your actual tyre pressure usually mean dead sensor batteries. Physical damage through a pothole might have broken the sensor, or the sensor might have been broken during tyre repairs. Most sensors tend to last around 5-10 years before the batteries begin to die naturally.
Replacement process overview
Getting new sensors involves many steps. First, a technician must determine which sensor has failed and what type it is for your particular car. The new sensor is then matched to the car's particular system. After installation, the sensor is programmed to communicate with the car's on-board computer. Finally, the entire system is tested for proper functioning. So-called replacement costs will depend on the type of sensors and the number of hours of work. OEM-quality parts must always be used for reliability.
Tools & accessories required
By contrast, professional shops use a wide array of equipment different from that of the DIY mechanic. Pro mechanics use diagnostic computers to read sensor data and program a new unit. Basic home mechanics need simple tyre tools and accessories to ensure safe handling.
An Autel TPMS tool is the kind of programming equipment shops use to tackle particularly challenging sensor jobs. These tools are able to work with any sensor manufacturer and any car type.
Common problems and quick troubleshooting.
Three major problems are common causes of TPMS failure.
1 Dead batteries cause sensors to fail to transmit signals.
2 Corroded valve stems cause damage to sensor connectivity.
3 Another reason is that after battery changes or tyre rotations, the sensors lose communication with the car computer.
Check whether your tyres really have low pressure, and attempt to reset the system using the manual of your car before considering any replacements.
Quick maintenance checklist
Measure tyre pressure once a month using a trusted gauge
Inspect valve stems for cracks, rust, and damage
Record the time sensors are replaced to keep track of battery life
Replace valve caps that are missing or damaged
Record replacement dates for further reference
Test the system after any tyre work or pressure changes
Conclusion
In protecting your TPMS sensors, you are protecting your safety and money as well. By keeping regular maintenance, you avoid very costly replacements and allow your tyres to last longer. Monthly simple checks yield early warnings of any fault before it becomes dangerous.
Rema Tip Top understands that modern tyre care means more than just fixing punctures, and their professional team can help you maintain these critical safety systems alongside all your other tyre service needs.
FAQs
Q: How often should I check my TPMS system?
Regular tyre maintenance and TPMS sensor checks can ensure the sensor is functioning within the vehicle and the tyres are safely inflated for the road.
Q: Why do I get TPMS warnings when my tyre pressure is correct?
Temperature changes cause temporary pressure drops
Ageing sensor batteries causes intermittent signals
The system needs recalibration after tyre service
Q: Why are TPMS relearn procedures so complicated?
These regulations can be very complex and can cost you time and money if not understood well. Every vehicle manufacturer has specific requirements for TPMS relearn procedures, and they are among the very important steps in switching off the TPMS warning light on your dashboard.
Comments