Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor Fault
This code indicates a problem with the TPMS sensor or its communication.
Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.
What it means (plain English)
The vehicle’s system is unable to read the tire pressure sensor properly, which could be due to a dead battery in the sensor, a bad sensor, or communication issues with the vehicle.
What the computer is actually seeing
The TPMS control module detects no signal or an abnormal signal from one or more tire pressure sensors when it should receive normal readings.
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal tire pressure readings should be around 30-35 PSI for passenger cars; sensors usually communicate in specific voltage ranges during self-checks.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 11. Inspect the tire pressure physically to ensure they are within normal ranges (30-35 PSI). Do this for all tires including the spare if equipped with a sensor.
- 22. Check the vehicle's TPMS system for any associated codes; if other TPMS-related codes are present, address those first.
- 33. Examine the wiring and connectors leading to the TPMS sensors for any damage or corrosion that could be affecting communication.
- 44. Using a TPMS scan tool, read the sensor data to verify if all sensors report - if one is unresponsive, that sensor is likely faulty.
- 55. Test each tire sensor’s battery life if your tool allows it; replace any sensor that shows a low battery (typically less than 2.5V).
- 66. If all sensors appear functional and wiring is intact, consider replacing the TPMS module.
Common causes
- Dead battery in the TPMS sensor
- Faulty TPMS sensor
- Wiring issues or bad connections
- TPMS module fault
- Mismatched or incorrect tire size
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code present?
Yes, but you won't have an accurate tire pressure reading which is crucial for tire safety and wear.
Will this code come back after clearing?
It can come back if the underlying issue isn't fixed, such as a faulty sensor or wiring fault.
Why does this code appear alongside other sensor codes?
Multiple sensor issues can often be related to wiring or module faults, affecting overall sensor communication.
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