What to Do If a Tire Pressure Sensor Fails?
4 Answers
Tire pressure monitoring sensor fails, you should go to a professional repair shop to replace the tire pressure sensor as soon as possible. There are three commonly used tire pressure monitoring methods: Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring: The direct tire pressure monitoring device uses pressure sensors installed in each tire to directly measure the tire pressure, and uses a wireless transmitter to send the pressure information from inside the tire to a central receiver module, which then displays the pressure data of each tire. When the tire pressure is too low or there is a leak, the system will automatically alarm. Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring: When the pressure of a tire decreases, the weight of the vehicle will cause the rolling radius of that wheel to become smaller, resulting in its rotation speed being faster than other wheels. By comparing the difference in rotation speed between the tires, the purpose of monitoring tire pressure is achieved. The indirect tire alarm system actually relies on calculating the rolling radius of the tire to monitor the pressure. Introduction to Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): It combines the advantages of the above two systems, equipping direct sensors in two diagonally opposite tires and a 4-wheel indirect system. Compared to using all direct systems, this composite system can reduce costs and overcome the defect that the indirect system cannot detect when multiple tires simultaneously have low pressure. However, it still cannot provide real-time data of the actual pressure in all four tires like the direct system.
Last time the TPMS sensor on my left front wheel failed, and the dashboard kept showing a yellow warning light. These sensors are usually integrated with the tire valve stem, so replacing it requires removing the whole set. I went to my regular tire shop, where the mechanic used professional equipment to dismount the tire, install a new sensor, and perform a wheel balance, charging me over 200 yuan. After replacement, remember to re-pair the sensor—the procedure varies by car model; for mine, it was just holding down a button on the steering wheel. Nowadays, new cars come with TPMS, and it’s best to fix it quickly if it fails, as driving on the highway without monitoring one tire’s pressure is quite risky. If money is tight lately, at least remember to manually check the tire pressure weekly with a mechanical gauge—don’t rely solely on the dashboard.
My little white car had the same issue last week! The tire pressure monitoring sensor on the right rear wheel malfunctioned and kept giving false alarms. I suggest you go directly to a 4S shop or tire specialty store to replace it with an original part. Aftermarket parts may be cheaper now but are prone to problems. Replacing just one sensor costs about 300-400 yuan. Last time I got it replaced at a chain store for 380 yuan including installation. The technician said the battery lasts about five years, and advised not to use high-pressure water guns to clean the valve stem area during car washes. There are temporary solutions like external tire pressure monitoring caps available now, but the original system is still the most reliable. After replacement, remember to ask the technician to reset the system – it gives much more peace of mind while driving!
The solution for a faulty tire pressure sensor involves three steps: First, identify the specific faulty wheel position. Most vehicle models display this information in the onboard computer. After preparing the corresponding model of sensor spare part, professional equipment is required to remove the tire and replace the component. After installation, a system reset is mandatory (via OBD interface matching or steering wheel combination button operation). Note that vehicles with different drive types require original factory-specified frequency band sensors. The repair cost ranges approximately from 200 to 600 yuan, including wheel balancing service. DIY replacement carries risks of air tightness issues, so professional service is recommended. The tire pressure monitoring system is a mandatory safety feature and should be repaired within 20 days after failure.
