Vehicles equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) provide feedback to the driver when one of the tires is low on air. This is important as many vehicle suspension systems become more advanced allowing the tire to deflate without the driver noticing. This system uses sensors that communicate with the TPMS control module (TPMS control module) which will identify issues and alert the driver if needed. This can also prevent a blowout while driving because of under or overinflated tires.
How do Tire Pressure Monitor Control Modules work?
The TPMS wheel sensors constantly communicate wirelessly to the TPMS control module. The sensors are pressure sensing, and the TPMS control module will identify when the reading from one or more of the sensors are outside of the expected range. If one of the tires are underinflated or overinflated, the TPMS control module will illuminate a warning light, display a message to the driver, and constantly recheck so it understands when the tire pressure is back to normal.
What are the symptoms of a bad Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module?
The only symptoms of a TPMS control module failure are failing to alert the driver of underinflation or overinflation of one or more tires, failure to communicate with the body control module or TPMS sensors, or erroneously reporting incorrect tire pressure.
Can I drive with a bad Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module?
Since the TPMS control module is a component of an accessory system, there is no vehicle that actually needs the system to operate. This is true of many systems, however, like air conditioning, it is nice to have. This is one item that can be repaired as desired and at the convenience of the owner of the vehicle.
How often do Tire Pressure Monitor Control Modules need replacement?
Tire pressure monitoring system control module failure, like other electronic components, is random, and predictability is guesswork at best. Failure of the TPMS control module is not as common as replacement of the TPMS sensors because the tire pressure monitoring system sensors are replaced each time the tires are replaced.
How are Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module issues diagnosed?
When diagnosing the TPMS control module, the technician will simply compare actual conditions to electronic conditions. In other words, If the technician notes that the tire pressure is correct on each wheel but the control module shows incorrect pressure(s), a discrepancy is noted. Discrepancies like this are commonly used as clues which map to the issue. If the technician finds that the issue originates with the control module, whether by physical or scan testing, the module will be verified defective and replaced.
How are Tire Pressure Monitor Control Modules replaced?
Like any other control module, the location of the tire pressure monitoring system control module (TPMS) will be identified and the technician will then begin removing all obstructing components needed to access and remove the control module. Once accessed and removed, the connectors are cleaned and inspected, and the new module will be installed. After all components are reassembled on the vehicle, the technician will program the TPMS control module and relearn the TPMS sensors. Finally, the technician will test the operation of the system to ensure the customer complaint has been corrected.
RepairPal Recommendations for Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module issues
Electrical diagnostics in general can be problematic, and there are many variables to account for. When electrical problems arise, diagnostics may take several hours to complete, or just a few minutes. This will significantly impact the cost of repairs. Choosing a facility with proper equipment and training for their staff may significantly reduce diagnostic time needed.
What to look out for when dealing with Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module issues
Every possible scenario related to the failure of the TPMS control module can be replicated by one or more failures within the TPMS system. This means that the control module may be blamed for a sensor issue, or a sensor may be blamed for a faulty control module. When the issue has been routed to one circuit, the entire circuit should be tested to prove the diagnosis.
Can I replace the Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module myself?
Except for the very advanced DIY mechanic with a strong understanding of computerized circuit diagnostics and testing, this repair should be left to a professional. Diagnostics of electronic systems are difficult for the untrained person to perform correctly. Unless safety and diagnostic methods are understood and followed properly, this should be left to a professional.