TPMS Sensor Repair in Tulsa, OK

Do you know what your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light looks like or what it means? You’re not alone if you’re not quite sure. In fact, in a study by Goodyear and Just Tires involving more than 1,000 U.S drivers, 39% of overall drivers and 49% of younger drivers did not recognize the TPMS warning symbol.

This TPMS system electronically tracks the status of your tire’s air pressure and will alert you when the pressure is not at a sufficient level. The symbol looks like an upright horseshoe with grooves at the bottom and an exclamation point in the middle.

Because of a federal mandate, all passenger cars from at least the model year 2008 and after (and many before 2008) have a TPMS. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, this system monitors the tire pressure either by your vehicle’s ABS or a battery-powered TPMS sensor mounted in the tire or on the wheel.

Two Types of Tire Pressure Sensors

When it comes to the tire pressure sensor your TPMS may use, there are two types—direct and indirect. A direct TPMS receives data from air pressure sensors inside each of your tires, while an indirect TPMS relies on data from speed sensors on the wheels to determine the air pressure levels of your tires.

Why This System is So Important

A properly working TPMS plays a vital role in ensuring that your vehicle is operating properly and the safety of you and your passengers inside. It will also help you save money by helping to extend the life of your tires and maintain optimal fuel economy.

Some specific benefits of a properly functioning TPMS include:

  • Decreased premature tire tread wear
  • Improved vehicle handling and safety
  • Optimal braking capability
  • Maximized gas mileage
  • Reduced CO2 emissions

When you have a tire that is not properly inflated, you have a safety hazard on your hands, for several reasons. If the tire pressure is too low, the tire can heat up very quickly and the tread will be worn down much faster. The excess heat can actually break down the tread and lead to a blowout and possibly an accident. Alternatively, if a tire is overinflated it can bounce easily, causing it to lose traction. 

As you can see, a properly functioning TPMS and properly inflated tires are vital. That is why it is recommended that you pay attention to the system and heed any warnings that may pop up.

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A TPMS Sensor Will Not Last Forever

The tire pressure sensors that the TPMS rely on are powered by an internal battery. But, these batteries don’t last forever. Typically, they have a five- to 10-year life (averaging seven years). The batteries in most TPMS sensors are not removable, so if the battery dies the entire sensor must be replaced.

To Replace or Not to Replace Sensors When Getting New Tires

When you are getting new tires, you don’t always need to replace your TPMS sensors. But, if the sensors are more than a few years old, it’s often convenient to replace them because older sensors might not last as long as your new tires. Many people prefer to replace the sensors when the new tires are installed to avoid the hassle of replacing them mid-way through the tires’ lifecycle.

Our ASE-certified technicians can help you determine whether your TPMS sensors should be replaced or not, and if needed we can properly install new ones for you.

There Are Specific Times the TPMS Should Be Reset

Your tire pressure monitoring system should always be reset after replacing or rotating tires, or after new sensors are installed. Some sensor manufacturers even recommend resetting the system after adding air to the tires. Many describe resetting the TPMS as “retraining” the system by teaching it to pick up the sensors in their new positions. 

Depending on the specific vehicle, the TPMS reset procedure can consist of a sequence of pedal and ignition movements, changing a setting in the dashboard menu, or using a TPMS Reset tool.

Your vehicle owner’s manual will detail how to reset your TPMS after tire service. If you don’t want to do it yourself, our technicians will gladly do this for you.

When You Should Have Your TPMS System Checked

If you have a tire that is low on pressure or your TPMS warning light illuminates on your dashboard, bring your vehicle to your closest Tate Boys location so we can check the tire and your TPMS.

Your TPMS warning light may be doing one of two things:

The light came on and has stayed on: This usually means a tire is under-inflated and the tire pressure has dropped 25% or more below the manufacturer’s recommended level. This is usually an easy fix. You can either add air to your tire yourself (make sure to monitor the tire pressure) or stop by your closest Tate Boys location and we can ensure your tire is properly inflated.

The light flashes or slowly blinks on and off: This usually indicates a malfunction in the TPMS and should be repaired ASAP. It could be that a sensor has failed or another problem in the system.

Pro Tips:

  • To prevent any TPMS problems/failures, have the system’s components inspected/serviced every time the tires are changed.
  • Check your tires’ air pressure before you’ve driven anywhere. You’ll get a more accurate reading when the tires are cold.

You Added Air & the TPMS Light is Still On?

If you’ve added more air to your tires and used a  tire pressure gauge to ensure they are properly inflated, there are several possible reasons for the light to still be on:

  1. The TPMS needs to be reset: Some tire pressure sensors require a TPMS reset after air is added or the tires are rotated or replaced.
  2. Your TPMS needs repair service: This is likely if the proper tire pressure is stable and the light is blinking. 
  3. A tire leak: This is likely if you’ve added air and the TPMS light is steady. Keep monitoring the tire’s inflation. If the pressure drops too quickly, you probably need tire repair done.

Let the Pros Service Your TPMS

A certified professional should be the only person you trust the safety of your car to. A trusted tire expert will have the latest tools, equipment, and expertise to service the TPMS on your vehicle.

When your TPMS alerts you to a problem, you can trust the professionals at Tate Boys. Our ASE-certified technicians are equipped for the job and will do it right the first time.

During our TPMS service, our technicians will:

  • Inspect your tires to rule out any leaks as a cause of tire underinflation.
  • Run a system test on all of your tire pressure sensors to ensure they’re working properly.
  • Replace any tire pressure sensor as needed or perform a TPMS reset of any malfunctioning sensors.
  • Replace the seals and nuts on TPMS sensors as needed.
  • Ensure your tires are at the proper air pressure and inflate/deflate as needed.
  • Discuss any additional recommended repairs that may be needed and the costs involved. 

If we find that your system is not working at all, we’ll go over our recommended solution with you.

If you have any questions about your TPMS, contact your closest Tate Boys location today! We are happy to help and can discuss your TPMS with you. We can properly analyze your TPMS, make the necessary repairs, and get you back on the road quickly and safely.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Every car has its ideal tire pressure. To find yours, look at your driver’s-side front door’s inner label or your vehicle’s user manual. However, this advice won’t apply if you’re not using the same type of tires that the original manufacturer fitted to your car. If you’re in this situation, the Tate Boys tire shop crew can help.

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