When it comes to TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors after replacing tires, there are several critical factors to consider. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed understanding of the TPMS sensor lifespan, potential issues during installation, the relearning process, common problems, and the cost of replacement.
TPMS Sensor Lifespan
TPMS sensors are designed to have a lifespan of 6 to 10 years, with an average of 8 years. This lifespan is not directly affected by the replacement of tires, unless the sensors are damaged during the installation process. The sensors are powered by a small battery, which gradually depletes over time, eventually causing the sensor to stop functioning.
According to a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the average TPMS sensor lifespan is 7.6 years, with a standard deviation of 1.8 years. This means that 95% of TPMS sensors can be expected to last between 4 to 11 years, depending on various factors such as driving conditions, sensor quality, and maintenance.
Damage During Installation
One of the primary concerns when replacing tires is the potential for damage to the TPMS sensors. The valve stem and grommet, which house the sensor, are particularly vulnerable during the tire installation process. If the installer is not careful, they can inadvertently damage the sensor, causing it to malfunction or fail.
According to a study published in the Journal of Automotive Engineering, the most common types of TPMS sensor damage during tire replacement include:
- Valve Stem Damage: The valve stem can be bent, cracked, or broken during the tire removal or installation process, leading to sensor failure.
- Grommet Damage: The rubber grommet that seals the sensor in the wheel can be torn or dislodged, compromising the sensor’s functionality.
- Sensor Dislodgement: The sensor can become dislodged from the valve stem, causing it to lose its connection with the vehicle’s TPMS system.
To minimize the risk of TPMS sensor damage, it is crucial to ensure that the installer is experienced and follows proper tire replacement procedures. This may include using specialized tools and techniques to handle the valve stem and grommet with care.
Relearning Process
After replacing tires, the vehicle’s TPMS system may need to be recalibrated to recognize the new sensors. This process, known as “relearning,” can be done in one of two ways:
- Driving Relearn: The vehicle is driven for a short distance, typically 10-30 minutes, to allow the TPMS system to detect and learn the new sensor IDs.
- Specialized Tool Relearn: A diagnostic tool or the vehicle’s onboard computer is used to manually input the new sensor IDs or initiate the relearning process.
The specific relearning process may vary depending on the vehicle make, model, and year. It is essential to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional technician to ensure the proper relearning procedure is followed.
Common Issues
After replacing tires, the TPMS light may come on for a variety of reasons, including:
- Incorrect Tire Pressure: If the new tires are not inflated to the recommended pressure, the TPMS system will detect the issue and illuminate the warning light.
- Sensor Damage: As mentioned earlier, if the TPMS sensor is damaged during the tire replacement process, it can cause the warning light to come on.
- Relearning Failure: If the TPMS system is not properly relearned to recognize the new sensors, the warning light may remain illuminated.
- Sensor Battery Depletion: As the TPMS sensor battery gradually depletes over time, the sensor may stop transmitting data, triggering the warning light.
In some cases, the TPMS light may come on temporarily as the system adjusts to the new tires. If the light remains on or comes on repeatedly, it is essential to diagnose and address the underlying issue.
Cost of Replacement
If a TPMS sensor needs to be replaced, the cost can range from $30 to $40 per sensor. This is typically an additional charge beyond the cost of the new tires. The exact cost may vary depending on the vehicle make and model, as well as the specific sensor type and brand.
It is important to note that the cost of TPMS sensor replacement can add up quickly, especially if multiple sensors need to be replaced. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the TPMS sensors are handled with care during the tire replacement process to minimize the risk of damage and the need for costly replacements.
Conclusion
In summary, TPMS sensors are designed to last for several years, but their lifespan can be affected by damage during the tire replacement process. To ensure the proper functioning of the TPMS system after new tires are installed, it is essential to follow proper installation procedures, recalibrate the system, and address any warning lights or issues that may arise. By understanding the key factors involved in TPMS sensor management, vehicle owners can maintain the safety and performance of their tires while minimizing the cost of TPMS-related maintenance.
References:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study on TPMS sensor lifespan: https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/documents/13401-tpms_sensor_life_final_report.pdf
- Journal of Automotive Engineering study on TPMS sensor damage during tire replacement: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0954407015594535
- Tire Industry Association (TIA) guidelines on TPMS sensor handling during tire replacement: https://www.tireindustry.org/tpms-sensor-handling-guidelines