Tyres
Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems — How They Work and Common Faults
TPMS sensors monitor tyre pressure and alert you to under-inflation. Battery failure, sensor damage, and incorrect resetting are common issues.
TPMS uses sensors inside each tyre (direct TPMS) or wheel speed sensors (indirect TPMS) to detect pressure loss. Direct sensors have batteries that typically last 5–7 years. When a battery dies, the sensor must be replaced and programmed to the vehicle. Sensor damage can occur during tyre fitting if the fitter is not careful. Common TPMS faults include the warning light staying on after a pressure adjustment, intermittent warnings, and all sensors failing to communicate (often a receiver module issue). When replacing tyres, inform the fitter that the vehicle has TPMS sensors so they can take care during removal and refitting.
Key takeaways
- TPMS sensor batteries last 5–7 years and require replacement when they die
- Sensor damage during tyre fitting is a common preventable issue
- TPMS warnings should be investigated promptly — they indicate a real or developing pressure loss
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