What is a Tire Pressure Monitoring System Relearn?
Vehicles with the added benefit of tire pressure monitoring are able to tell the driver when the air pressure in a tire is too high, too low, and, in some vehicles, what the exact tire pressure is at all times. Manufacturers use sensors in the wheels to communicate wirelessly to the tire pressure monitoring system control module, and this module will illuminate the warning light when there is a tire air pressure issue. When the TPMS sensors inside the tires fail to communicate, are replaced, or the battery for the vehicle has been disconnected, a relearn may need to be completed for the system to resume operation.
How does the TPMS work?
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) control module will receive information from the tire pressure monitoring sensors at all times the vehicle is on. In most vehicles, the only purpose of the TPMS control module is to illuminate the TPMS warning light when the tire is under or overinflated. The sensors in the tire are incorporated at the air stems, and automatically adjust their output signal as the pressure in the tire changes.
When do TPMS sensors need to be relearned?
When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.
Can I drive with TPMS issues?
The TPMS warning light comes on all the time, but that does not mean it should be ignored. The light is designed to give you fair warning of deflation before damage is done to the tire or wheel, and to prevent unsafe driving when a tire goes flat. Anytime the light comes on, pull over and check the air pressure as soon as it is safe to do so. If the tires are inspected regularly, the TPMS system never needs to be repaired, however, if the TPMS system is relied upon to guide maintenance, ignoring the situation may lead to a flat tire.