TIREVIO

Troubleshooting Persistent TPMS Warning Lights After Programming

During TPMS sensor matching operations, technicians frequently encounter unresolved warning lights post-programming. 

Follow this verification sequence:

Verification Steps

Eliminate Sensor Interference
·Relocate original sensors beyond 100m radius from vehicle
· Prevents signal conflicts with newly programmed units

Validate Tire Pressure
· Inflate tires to exact specification on B-pillar placard
· Example: 230kPa requirement ≠ 180kPa inflation (triggers warnings)

Confirm Programming Menu Selection
· Verify correct vehicle model/year menu in diagnostic tool

Sensor Learning Procedure (Post-Verification)

Tool Navigation Path:
Home → Service → Select Model Year (OE P/N) → Sensor Learning

Learning Mode Identification:
· "Auto" labeled menus: Autonomous learning mode (15-25 min drive cycle)
· "Diag" labeled menus: OBD diagnostic learning (ignition-on procedure)
· GM vehicles (Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet): Mandatory manual learning

TPMS Sensor Detection Failure: Case Analysis & Solutions

Sensor undetection requires case-specific analysis. The most common causes are:

Incorrect model year/OEM part number selection in diagnostic menu

Sensor hardware failure preventing signal transmission

Refer to the troubleshooting flowchart below for systematic resolution procedures.

Troubleshooting Protocol
· Step 1: Verify menu selection matches vehicle VIN-derived specifications
· Step 2: Perform bench test on sensor using TPMS diagnostic tool
· Step 3: Check sensor battery voltage (typical range: 2.8-3.3V)
· Step 4: Validate RF transmission frequency (315MHz/433MHz)

Resolution path indicated by diagnostic results:
→ Menu error: Re-select correct OEM part number
→ Low voltage: Replace sensor
→ No RF signal: Install new sensor

Symptom
Dashboard displays persistent "0" or flashing value (oscillating between 0 and normal pressure), confirmed by diagnostic tool readout.

Root Cause
Vehicle detects old sensors or uninstalled TPMS units transmitting signals.

Resolution

Search vehicle interior for residual sensors

Relocate all unused sensors >100m from vehicle

Conduct road test above 25km/h for 5+ minutes

If unresolved: Perform "Create New ID + OBD Learning" procedure

Tool path: Service > Programming > Sensor Initialization

• Possible Causes:

  • Sensor battery depleted

  • Wrong frequency or incompatible sensor model

  • Sensor not properly installed or damaged

• Solutions:

  • Verify sensor frequency (e.g., 315 MHz or 433 MHz)

  • Replace sensor if battery is dead (non-serviceable)

  • Reinstall or replace with compatible TPMS sensor

• Possible Causes:

  • Sensor not programmed or paired with vehicle ECU

  • Incorrect vehicle protocol used during programming

  • ECU requires a reset/relearn process

• Solutions:

  • Program sensor with vehicle-specific data

  • Perform TPMS relearn procedure (static, OBD, or auto-relearn depending on vehicle)

  • Confirm correct torque during installation

• Possible Causes:

  • Sensor calibration issue

  • Physical damage to sensor or valve stem

  • Environmental interference (temperature changes, RF interference)

• Solutions:

  • Verify with a calibrated manual gauge

  • Replace faulty sensor/valve

  • Recheck torque on valve stem nut