TPMS Service Video

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses small sensors inside the wheels to monitor tire pressure. When a tire drops below the manufacturer's recommended threshold, the system activates a dashboard warning light. This video shows where the tire pressure sensors are located and explains what the dashboard warning light means. It also explains why a solid light and a flashing light indicate different problems.

Every vehicle sold in the United States since 2008 has TPMS, so nearly every driver eventually deals with it. Each sensor has its own battery sealed inside the housing, and it transmits pressure readings to the vehicle's receiver every few seconds while the wheels are turning. The battery is not serviceable and typically lasts 5 to 10 years, at which point the sensor stops transmitting and has to be replaced as a unit. After any tire rotation, replacement, or sensor swap, the system has to be relearned so the vehicle knows which sensor is at which corner.

A solid TPMS light usually means one or more tires have low pressure and need air. If the light flashes for about 60 seconds before staying on, it typically indicates a system fault, such as a dead sensor battery or damage during a tire change.

Cape Girardeau's freeze-thaw temperature swings can lower tire pressure by roughly 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop. This is why the TPMS warning light often appears on the first cold morning of the season, even when the system is working properly. If the TPMS light comes on along with uneven tire wear or pulling to one side, other issues may need attention. We recommend checking the TPMS and wheel alignment together rather than focusing only on the sensor.

At Parks Automotive, we scan the TPMS to identify which sensor is reporting a fault. We also check each sensor's battery voltage and signal strength, then inspect the valve stems and seals for road-salt corrosion. When a sensor needs replacing, we program the new one to your vehicle's specifications and perform the relearn procedure so all four corners report correctly.

TPMS work falls under our broader suspension and wheel services. We program replacement sensors in-house rather than sending your vehicle elsewhere, so we can complete the service during the same visit for most cars.

Call Parks Automotive at (573) 335-2599 to have your TPMS light diagnosed, or find your Cape Girardeau auto shop online. Drivers from Jackson and Scott City routinely bring us their sensor and pressure warnings.