ASE A4 Suspension and SteeringWheels and Tires Diagnosis and RepairMedium
A technician is performing a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) relearn procedure after replacing a tire. The scan tool successfully communicates with all four sensors, but the vehicle's TPMS light remains illuminated. The technician verifies all tire pressures are set to the manufacturer's specification. Which of the following is the MOST likely reason for the TPMS light to remain on?
- AThe technician forgot to re-torque the lug nuts, causing a false reading.
- BThe vehicle requires a specific drive cycle to complete the relearn.
- COne of the new sensors has an incorrect ID programmed.
- DThe TPMS control module has a stored fault code that needs to be cleared.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The vehicle requires a specific drive cycle to complete the relearn.
Many TPMS systems, even after successful sensor communication and pressure verification, require a specific drive cycle (e.g., driving above a certain speed for a period) to fully complete the relearn process and turn off the warning light.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrectly torqued lug nuts would not directly cause the TPMS light to remain on after successful sensor communication and pressure verification.
- C. If the scan tool successfully communicated with all four sensors, their IDs are likely correct or have been successfully learned.
- D. If the scan tool communicated successfully, it would usually indicate and allow clearing of stored fault codes. The issue is likely the finalization step.
TPMS Drive Cycle Relearn
Some TPMS systems require a specific drive cycle (e.g., driving at a certain speed for a duration) to fully complete the sensor relearn process and extinguish the warning light.
- Required after sensor replacement or rotation
- Involves driving at specific speeds/durations
- Final step to clear TPMS light
Memory trick: After the scan, take a drive, then the light won't thrive!