TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors are designed to provide accurate tire pressure readings, but sometimes they can display incorrect values. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the common causes of TPMS sensor reading wrong pressure and provide step-by-step instructions on how to calibrate and troubleshoot the system.
Causes of TPMS Sensor Reading Wrong Pressure
- Sensor Inaccuracy:
- TPMS sensors use various technologies, such as piezoelectric or strain gauge, to measure the tire pressure.
- Over time, these sensors can become less accurate, leading to incorrect pressure readings, even if the sensor has not completely failed.
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The typical accuracy of a TPMS sensor is within 1/10 PSI or better when new, but this can degrade over the sensor’s lifespan.
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Incorrect Calibration:
- TPMS sensors need to be properly calibrated to the vehicle’s computer system.
- If the sensors are not calibrated correctly, they may not provide accurate pressure readings.
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Calibration issues can arise after tire changes, sensor replacements, or other maintenance procedures.
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Atmospheric Pressure Variations:
- TPMS sensors measure absolute pressure, which includes both the air pressure inside the tire and the atmospheric pressure outside.
- Changes in atmospheric pressure due to weather conditions or altitude can affect the TPMS readings, leading to inaccurate tire pressure indications.
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Some vehicles’ TPMS systems have an atmospheric pressure sensor to compensate for these variations, but not all systems have this feature.
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Sensor Failure:
- In some cases, a TPMS sensor may simply fail, causing incorrect or inconsistent readings.
- Sensor failure can be due to various reasons, such as physical damage, battery depletion, or electronic issues.
Calibrating TPMS Sensors for Accurate Pressure Readings
To ensure accurate TPMS readings, follow these steps:
- Relearn Procedure:
- Perform the relearn procedure for your vehicle’s TPMS system.
- This process typically involves resetting the sensors and re-pairing them with the vehicle’s computer.
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Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult a professional for the specific relearn procedure.
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Check and Adjust Air Pressure:
- Verify the air pressure in each tire using a reliable tire pressure gauge.
- Adjust the pressure to the recommended level, which can be found in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb sticker.
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After adjusting the tire pressure, check the TPMS readings to ensure they match the actual tire pressure.
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Use a TPMS Relearn Tool:
- Utilize a TPMS relearn tool, such as the VXDAS GL50448, to reset and recalibrate the sensors.
- These tools can help you quickly and accurately reprogram the TPMS system after tire changes or other maintenance.
Troubleshooting TPMS Sensor Reading Wrong Pressure
If you continue to experience issues with your TPMS sensor reading wrong pressure, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Sensor Inaccuracy or Failure:
- If the TPMS sensor is consistently providing inaccurate readings, it may be time to replace the sensor.
- Check the sensor’s age and consider replacing it if it’s been in use for several years.
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Consult a professional mechanic or the vehicle’s manufacturer for guidance on sensor replacement.
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Incorrect Calibration:
- Ensure that the TPMS sensors are properly calibrated to the vehicle’s computer system.
- If the sensors were recently replaced or the tires were rotated, the system may need to be recalibrated.
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Follow the relearn procedure as outlined in the previous section.
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Atmospheric Pressure Variations:
- If the TPMS readings seem to fluctuate with changes in weather or altitude, the system may not be compensating for atmospheric pressure variations.
- Some vehicles have an atmospheric pressure sensor built into the TPMS system, but not all models have this feature.
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Consult your vehicle’s manufacturer or a professional mechanic for guidance on addressing atmospheric pressure-related issues.
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Tire Rotation:
- If the tires on your vehicle have been rotated, the TPMS sensors may not accurately reflect the new tire positions.
- Perform the relearn procedure to ensure the sensors are properly paired with the correct tire locations.
By understanding the common causes of TPMS sensor reading wrong pressure and following the proper calibration and troubleshooting steps, you can ensure that your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system provides accurate and reliable readings.
Technical Specifications of TPMS Sensor Reading Wrong Pressure
- Accuracy: TPMS sensors are designed to provide accurate readings within 1/10 PSI or better when new.
- Absolute Pressure Measurement: TPMS sensors measure absolute pressure, which includes both the air pressure inside the tire and the atmospheric pressure outside.
- Atmospheric Pressure Correction: Some vehicles’ TPMS systems have an atmospheric pressure sensor to compensate for changes in atmospheric pressure, improving the accuracy of the readings.
- Sensor Lifespan: TPMS sensors typically have a lifespan of 5-10 years, after which their accuracy may start to degrade.
- Sensor Technology: TPMS sensors can use various technologies, such as piezoelectric or strain gauge, to measure the tire pressure.
- Sensor Replacement Cost: The cost of replacing a TPMS sensor can range from $50 to $150 or more, depending on the vehicle make and model.
References
- https://www.jeeprenegadeforum.com/threads/inaccurate-tpms-in-one-tire.105663/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/BoltEV/comments/10kpcpm/incorrect_tire_pressure_reading/
- https://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/threads/tpms-wrong-reading.123823/
- https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c6-corvette-general-discussion/4625709-new-tpms-sensor-readings-do-not-match-manual-tire-guage.html
- https://www.ssforums.com/threads/one-tpms-reading-low-but-tire-pressure-is-actually-fine.137865/