The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on General Motors (GM) vehicles is a crucial safety feature that monitors the air pressure in each tire and alerts the driver when the pressure falls below a certain threshold. This comprehensive guide will delve into the technical specifications, reset procedures, and troubleshooting steps for TPMS sensors on GM vehicles, providing you with a detailed understanding of this essential system.
Technical Specifications of TPMS Sensors on GM Vehicles
ACDelco GM Original Equipment Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors (TPMS)
- Sensor Type: Battery-powered sensors located inside the tire
- Pressure Monitoring: Continuously monitor the vehicle’s tire pressure and warn the driver when pressure falls more than 25% below the manufacturer’s recommendations
- Communication: Communicate with the vehicle’s TPMS module using Radio Frequency (RF) technology
- Lifespan: Typically last up to 10 years of normal use
Sensor Specifications
- Sensor Diameter: 0.87 inches (22 mm)
- Sensor Height: 1.18 inches (30 mm)
- Sensor Weight: 0.88 ounces (25 grams)
- Operating Temperature Range: -40°F to 257°F (-40°C to 125°C)
- Pressure Measurement Range: 0 to 87 psi (0 to 600 kPa)
- Pressure Accuracy: ±1.5 psi (±10 kPa)
- Transmission Frequency: 315 MHz or 433 MHz (depending on vehicle model)
- Transmission Power: Less than 3 milliwatts (mW)
- Battery Life: Up to 10 years (under normal use)
TPMS Sensor Replacement Considerations
- When replacing TPMS sensors, it is recommended to use ACDelco GM Original Equipment sensors to ensure compatibility and proper functionality.
- TPMS sensors are programmed to the specific vehicle and must be relearned or reprogrammed after replacement or tire rotation.
- Failure to properly relearn the TPMS sensors can result in warning lights, inaccurate pressure readings, and potential safety issues.
Resetting Sensor Positions after Tire Rotation on a GM Vehicle
After rotating the tires on your GM vehicle, you will need to reset the TPMS sensor positions to ensure accurate pressure monitoring. Follow these steps:
- Ensure the vehicle is stationary and the transmission is in park.
- Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position but do not start the engine.
- Press and hold the “Unlock” button on the key fob until the horn chirps.
- Release the “Unlock” button and then press and hold it again until the horn chirps again.
- The horn chirps indicate that the TPMS system is in relearn mode.
- Drive the vehicle at a speed of at least 25 mph for about 10 minutes to allow the sensors to relearn their positions.
Procedure to Relearn TPMS Sensors on a GM Vehicle after Replacing a Spare Tire
When replacing a spare tire on your GM vehicle, you will need to relearn the TPMS sensors to ensure proper tire pressure monitoring. Follow these steps:
- Ensure the vehicle is stationary and the transmission is in park.
- Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position but do not start the engine.
- Press and hold the “Unlock” button on the key fob until the horn chirps.
- Release the “Unlock” button and then press and hold it again until the horn chirps again.
- The horn chirps indicate that the TPMS system is in relearn mode.
- Drive the vehicle at a speed of at least 25 mph for about 10 minutes to allow the sensors to relearn their positions.
Clearing a Service Tire Monitor System Message on a GM Vehicle
If you receive a “Service Tire Monitor System” message on your GM vehicle, follow these steps to troubleshoot and clear the message:
Step 1: Check Tire Pressure
- Ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, as specified in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb sticker.
- Check the tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips using a reliable tire pressure gauge.
- Adjust the tire pressure as needed to match the recommended levels.
Step 2: Relearn TPMS Sensors
- Ensure the vehicle is stationary and the transmission is in park.
- Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position but do not start the engine.
- Press and hold the “Unlock” button on the key fob until the horn chirps.
- Release the “Unlock” button and then press and hold it again until the horn chirps again.
- The horn chirps indicate that the TPMS system is in relearn mode.
- Drive the vehicle at a speed of at least 25 mph for about 10 minutes to allow the sensors to relearn their positions.
If the “Service Tire Monitor System” message persists after completing these steps, there may be a more complex issue with the TPMS system, and you should consult a qualified automotive technician for further diagnosis and repair.