GM TPMS systems on Buick, Pontiac, Chevy, GMC, Cadillac and Hummer models are some of the easiest to service if you have the right tools and knowledge. Starting in 2007, most vehicles use a TRW-, Schrader- or VDO-manufactured system that all share the same relearn procedures and behaviors, with only a few exceptions (like the Pontiac Vibe).
Shops should use a TPMS tool to reset the sensor positions after rotation. There is a method in the owner’s manual to “match” the sensors that involves deflating a tire for eight seconds.
To see if a code has been set on vehicles with or without a driver information center (DIC), turn the key on without starting the engine, and the TPMS light will blink for one minute and then stay on with a Service Tire Monitor System message. If that occurs, a TPMS system problem exists. On vehicles equipped with a DIC, a SERVICE TIRE MONITOR type message will also display.
When the road tire is repaired and reinstalled in the original location, the TPMS indicator icon illumination and DIC message may remain displayed until the DTC is resolved and cleared.
The initial “low tire” light is similar to the “low fuel” indicator and adding air to the low tire will extinguish the light. If the driver re-inflates the low tire, they must drive a short distance for at least 30 seconds before the sensors recognize the increase in pressure and turn the light off again. If the deflation is rapid, it will give a more immediate signal by flashing a warning light.
A GM TPMS has pressure, temperature and acceleration sensors. The unit also has a radio transmitter, receiver and battery. Sensors have an estimated 10 year/150,000 mile battery life (GM’s estimate). The antenna and receiver are the same as those used for the keyless-entry system. The antenna is typically sandwiched between the layers of glass in the front or rear glass, but some vehicles have a dedicated antenna mounted in various places.
The keyless-entry module communicates with the TPMS sensors and relays the information with the Body Control Module (BCM) on the CAN BUS. If the keyless-entry module or BCM is replaced, the sensors must be relearned. Same goes for the key fobs.
Each sensor has its own unique ID number. If a new sensor is fitted, the BCM must be reprogrammed with its unique ID and its position on the vehicle.
Each sensor takes a pressure measurement sample once every 30 seconds while in stationary mode. If the tire pressure increases or decreases by more than 1.2 psi from the last pressure measurement, another measurement will occur immediately to verify the change in pressure. If a pressure change has indeed occurred, the sensor transmits in learn mode.
Each sensor has an internal low frequency coil, and when the TPMS tool is used in activate mode, it produces a low frequency transmission that activates the sensor. The sensor responds to a low frequency activation by transmitting in learn mode.
When the TPMS antenna receives a learn mode transmission while in TPMS learn mode, it will assign that sensor’s ID number to the location on the vehicle relative to the order in which it was learned.
• It is best to perform the TPMS relearn procedure in the parking lot away from the shop. This decreases the chances of other radio signals interfering with the relearn process.
• Aim at the sidewall below the valve stem — not at the stem.
• If you cannot get a sensor to initialize, try pushing the vehicle forward a foot or two. The signals can be blocked by components like rotors, calipers and knuckles, so repositioning the vehicle may unblock the sensor. This is far more common on the front wheels.
TPMS Sensor Matching1. Set the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON/RUN with the engine off.
3. Press and hold the keyless-entry fob transmitter’s LOCK and UNLOCK buttons, at the same time, for about five seconds to start the TPMS learn mode.
The horn sounds twice indicating the TPMS receiver is ready and in learn mode. This can also be performed using the turn signal arm and the driver information center.
4. Starting with the left-front tire, activate the sensor by holding the TPMS tool aimed upward against the tire sidewall close to the wheel rim at the valve stem location. Press and release the activate button and wait for a horn chirp.
5. Once the horn chirp has sounded, the sensor information is learned and a turn signal will illuminate in the next location to be learned. On most models, the driver-side-front will be next. Once the learn mode has been enabled, each of the sensors’ unique identification codes can be learned.
6. When a sensor ID has been learned, the module sends a serial data message to the BCM to sound a horn chirp. This verifies the sensor has transmitted its ID and has received and learned it. The module must learn the sensor IDs in the proper sequence to determine each sensor’s location.
The first learned ID is assigned to the left-front location, the second to right-front, the third to right-rear and the fourth to left-rear.
The learn mode will cancel if the ignition is cycled to OFF or if more than two minutes has elapsed and no sensor has been learned. If the learn mode is canceled before the first sensor is learned, the original sensor IDs will be maintained. If the learn mode is canceled after the first sensor is learned, the following will occur:
• All stored sensor IDs will be invalidated in the RCDLR memory.
• If equipped, the DIC will display dashes instead of tire pressures.
• DTC C0775 will be set.
These conditions will now require the learn procedure to be repeated for the system to function properly.
Top GM TPMS Tips• If the BCM or keyless-entry modules have been replaced, the modules must be reprogramed and the sensors relearned.
• Many of these systems have been on the road for nine years, so be prepared to deal with mixed sets of sensors from different manufacturers.
• If the model has snap-in sensors, before installing the valve stem, it is acceptable to lubricate the seating surfaces with an approved tire lubricant. Do not use chassis grease or a grease with petroleum distillates. These types of lubricants can degrade the stem over time and cause a leak. Lubricating the stem can help in the alignment of the sensor on the flats.
• If you encounter a sensor that does not respond when activated by the tool, try activating another sensor that responded previously. This will help you determine if the tool is able to activate the sensor or if you have a problem with one particular sensor.
• When tightening the screw of a snap-in sensor, be mindful of stress on the sensor and the alignment of the sensor. Start the screw for the first couple of threads and make sure the sensor and stem are aligned. When performing the final tightening sequence, stop when the tool clicks to indicate the proper torque has been reached.
• Sensors are getting to be very inexpensive.
If one sensor dies, consider replacing all of them.
Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification code. The identification code needs to be matched to a new tire/wheel position after rotating the tires or replacing one or more of the TPMS sensors.
The TPMS sensor matching process should also be performed after replacing a spare tire with a road tire containing the TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off at the next ignition cycle. The sensors are matched to the tire/wheel positions, using a TPMS relearn tool, in the following order: driver side front tire, passenger side front tire, passenger side rear tire, and driver side rear.
There are two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall to matchall four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer, the matching process stops and must be restarted.
The TPMS sensor matching process is:
Related Course
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This course, presented by Karl Schneider, covers everything you need to know about TPMS. Karl covers the shop’s legal responsibilities that come with TPMS and how to avoid expensive ramifications. He goes over the three types of sensors you will encounter, how to diagnose and service these types.
As a wrap-up, Karl conducts some hands-on case studies that will have you feeling confident in your knowledge of properly servicing TPMS.
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While most shops work with TPMS on a daily basis, use this as a refresher and a tool for new hires - even as information to share with your customers if they want to learn more about the complexity of the relearn process.
Partnering with an OE sensor manufacturer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to your TPMS program. OE manufacturers simply know more than non-OE manufacturers and working directly with OEM’s gives OE TPMS suppliers an edge when it comes to bringing new OE technology to the aftermarket. An OE TPMS supplier can give you the latest technology sooner and with higher quality than a reverse-engineered aftermarket part.
All vehicle makes and models have different service requirements, including the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
When TPMS sensors are replaced or wheels have been rotated, a relearn procedure is required. Relearns can be tricky, and if not fully understood, they can cost your shop time and ultimately money. Each vehicle manufacturer has created their own requirements for TPMS relearn procedures, and they are a crucial step to turning the TPMS light off on the dashboard.
The purpose of the relearn is to share the new TPMS sensor IDs to the vehicle. This allows the sensors to “talk” to the vehicle and alert the driver if any tires have low air pressure or if there is a malfunction with the TPMS system.
If you take advantage of a universal TPMS sensor solution, then keep in mind that by the time you are ready to relearn the vehicle, you should have already programmed the sensor to the proper MMY of the vehicle being serviced. Service professionals often confuse “programming the sensor” with “relearning the vehicle.” These are different actions and the vehicle must still be relearned after the sensors are programmed.
The first necessary step of performing a relearn is to decipher which type of relearn procedure needs to be completed on that specific vehicle: stationary, OBD, or automatic.
A stationary relearn requires a specific sequence designated by the vehicle manufacturer. This can include turning the key a few times, pressing or holding the brake, and many other actions and combinations. Once the sequence is completed correctly, the horn may chirp or lights might blink, signaling that the new sensor IDs have been correctly relearned.
An OBD relearn requires you to connect to the vehicle’s computer via an OBD cord attached to a compatible TPMS scan tool. Once you are connected to the vehicle’s computer, you can then place the vehicle in relearn mode to complete the procedure.
An automatic relearn is actually a bit deceptive in its name as it does require the service professional to drive the vehicle for a certain amount of uninterrupted time at a specified minimum speed.
Once those requirements are met, then the sensors are “automatically” relearned to the vehicle.
Keep in mind that there are some special cases. You may need to do a combination of relearn types to complete the relearn. For example, you still might have to drive the vehicle for a specified amount of time after completing a stationary or OBD relearn.
Some vehicles may also require an extra step or an extra tool to complete a TPMS relearn procedure. Nissan, for example, requires a reset tool to properly complete a relearn procedure. Some Lexus models have a main and second switch that must be added into the step-by-step procedure. More specifically, the Honda Civic requires a “pressure drop” to relearn, where you have to lower the pressure in each wheel and tire assembly below 8 psi for at least one minute before re-inflating. With unique vehicle relearn procedures, it is important that you are always referencing a reliable source for TPMS service.
There are many ways to find out which type of relearn is required for any specific vehicle.
You can check sources such as the Tire Industry Association flip chart, the vehicle’s manual or manufacturers’ websites. In addition to these resources, some TPMS scan tools have these instructions located directly on the tool.
The most important thing you can do when it comes to relearns is to ensure no corners are being cut and every single step is taken in the proper sequence. Some steps may seem small, but skipping them is enough to make you have to start over, wasting time and money.
Written by Jacki Lutz for Tire Review
Not so long ago, scientists from different countries conducted an experiment, during which it was revealed that only a small part of vehicle owners check the amount of atmosphere in the chambers before going on a trip. Meanwhile, it is insufficient or excessive pressure that often causes increased fuel consumption, uncomfortable driving, or leads to an accident.
The TPMS system comes to the rescue, designed to control the amount of atmosphere in the chambers and signal malfunctions in a timely manner. When the tires are properly inflated, the special warning sensor does not light up. However, in some situations, the light comes on. A constantly burning signal will begin to annoy even the calmest driver, especially if the amount of atmosphere in the chambers is ideal. A few simple manipulations will help fix the sensor error, and a couple of tips will tell you how to properly configure the TPMS system.
The TPMS sensitively monitors the amount of atmosphere in each chamber. However, to avoid possible troubles, it is important to know that the indicators are working properly. No, for this you do not have to constantly run around the car with a variety of measuring instruments. You just need to regularly adjust the device.
It is important to remember that for each particular car model, the sensor manufacturer has set its own values for a particular season.
It is these characteristics that must be given to the TPMS system.
Manipulations are quite simple and do not require special experience. It all depends on which variety is used:
Therefore, it is better to entrust the work to professionals. After completing the installation work, it is necessary to check the correct installation of the caps and pump up the wheels. If readings are taken from the included display, no additional device settings are required. To prevent the light from flashing again for no reason, it is important to set up the device every time you make a change. For example, if the old wheels were replaced with a new set, balancing was done and so on.
The TPMS is easy to use. The main thing is to carefully study the attached instructions and make sure that the number of atmospheres in the chambers matches those recommended by the manufacturer.
@Firedis.com
External and mechanical models are disabled by removing the sensors, because without removing them, you will not be able to turn off the system. There are several ways to render TPMS useless:
The following manipulations can also help to eliminate the error in the system:
2 bar to it. If the signal continues to burn, you should completely lower the wheels. Then you need to re-inflate the tires, drive 5 km at a speed not exceeding 30 km / h. So the sensor data is completely reset, and the system will stop giving an error. TPMS is definitely useful and easy to use. But even modern devices have some drawbacks that may force the driver to dismantle the product.
So, tire pressure monitoring has the following disadvantages:
The reason lies in the fact that the angular speeds of the inner and outer wheels in this situation will be different. @Creta-fan.ru
Sometimes the above methods of turning off the sensors are not able to solve the problem. In this case, the first step is to check the health of the indicators. To do this, it is better to contact a specialized workshop or an authorized dealer. The most common reason for indicators not working correctly is damage to the device.
Thus, instruments can be damaged:
In some cases, the sensors may turn on by themselves, indicating a serious problem. Provoke incorrect operation can:
In the latter case, the ABS indicator will also come on. This suggests that the car needs to be diagnosed in a specialized center where employees will find and fix the problem.
The constantly lit TPMS indicator is an annoying factor for any car enthusiast. Even if everything is fine with the wheels, a faulty indicator deprives the vehicle owner of control over the true amount of atmospheres in the chambers. After all, if the light is on all the time, the motorist will not receive an alert when the camera is really faulty. And this factor already directly affects not only the comfort, but also the safety of the driver and passengers.
Therefore, it is important to establish the causes of the malfunction and fix the problem in time.
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When the tires are optimally inflated, the low tire pressure indicator (TPMS) does not light up on the vehicle's dashboard. However, in some cases, it lights up even if the pressure is normal.
This can't help but be annoying, especially when the tires are inflated normally. In our article today, we will figure out how to reset a tire pressure error.
American and European scientists conducted a study, during which it was found that most drivers do not check whether the wheels are properly inflated before getting behind the wheel of a car. Only 40% of car owners perform such a check - and even then only once every 12 months. This is the reason for a large number of accidents.
The TPMS (Tyre pressure monitoring system) system is designed to monitor tire pressure, as well as warn of a malfunction. If the tires are under-inflated or over-inflated, an error will be displayed on the remote control or an audible signal will appear.
What is dangerous too high or, conversely, low pressure? The risk of an accident increases, the car begins to consume more fuel, in addition, the rubber wears out faster.
Photo: Shutterstock
The above devices operate on the same principle. Let's figure out how information about what tire pressure gets to the control panel.
Consider how pressure is calculated by measuring instruments. Typically, the sensor performs a comparison of the angular rotation of the wheel. Knowing the value of this parameter, you can calculate the distance that the wheel will travel in one rotation.
Obviously, if the tires are under-inflated or over-inflated, then the outer diameter of the wheel will be different. Visually, a person cannot determine this change. But the sensor notices even such changes. The system fixes non-compliance with the required parameters.
The sensor will still respond, despite the fact that the wheel circumference has changed quite a bit. In this situation, it is necessary to find out what mechanical reason led to this. Only in this way can you eliminate the misinterpretation of the signals transmitted by the system. This can happen because:
Also, the TPMS system gives an error when you install new wheels or rearrange them.
When, after these steps, a tire pressure error appeared, indicating unbalance, you should reset the settings, and then set the basic parameters. In this case, the control signal may remain even if the basic settings have been selected.
Why such problems may occur:
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How to reset tire pressure error? To begin with, imagine that the TPMS system is working properly and the blinking light indicates a problem with the undercarriage of the machine. The first thing you should do is slowly release the gas. You can not brake sharply, turn the steering wheel. After the car has stopped, inspect the tires to make sure the rubber is not punctured or broken.
Then you can check if the tire pressure is normal.
Pay attention! The TPMS will not always show a tire pressure error. For example, if the tires are slowly deflating, the system will not inform you about the problem. In the same way, she will not notice the error if the tire pressure starts to drop rapidly. This usually happens when a tire ruptures. This feature of the TPMS system is explained by the specifics of identifying and counting nonconformities.
However, in some cases, it happens that the TPMS system indicator is on, but the tires are in perfect condition. How to reset tire pressure error? We understand.
The complex TPMS system in some cases starts to work incorrectly. Usually, car owners observe the following picture: a tire pressure error is displayed on the display (the tire is underinflated), but in reality everything is fine with the wheel. You have to reset the tire pressure error.
Otherwise, the TPMS system starts to work incorrectly.
Photo: Shutterstock
You also have to reset the tire pressure error when there is radio interference from high voltage power lines. Or when sources of radio signals are located in the immediate vicinity. But as soon as you move away from them, the pressure error disappears and the system begins to function properly.
The reason for the malfunction may lie in the sensor, which is "failed". This damage cannot be easily repaired. How to reset a tire pressure error if the sensor flashes, while you hear a beep, lose your vigilance and find it difficult to drive a car? There are 4 ways to fix this problem.
To reset the error, pick up a speed of 80 km / h and continue driving for another 15 kilometers.
This method is the easiest to implement. If your car has this feature, then turn on the cruise control so that the speed does not change. Depending on the model of your car, you will be able to reset the tire pressure error at a speed that exceeds the specified one.
After you cover a distance of 15-20 kilometers, maintaining the same speed of 80 km / h, make a stop. Turn off the motor. When you start it again, the tire pressure error will disappear.
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Press the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) reset button on your car and you will be able to reset the error.
It does not matter what type of low pressure warning system is used. In any case, there will be a sensor on each wheel of your car. Sometimes it may be necessary to reboot the touch system of the car. Read the owner's manual for the vehicle. It contains information on how to reset a tire pressure error. Most often, the instructions indicate which button to press to reset.
The ignition key must be in the lock. No need to start the car, just turn it to the “on” (“ON”) position. Then press and hold the reset button, which may be under the steering wheel. We are waiting for the low pressure indicator to blink 3 times. After that, you can release the button. We start the car, it should work for 20 minutes. After this time, the computer will calibrate the sensors on the wheels. Now you can turn off the car.
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Lower and then re-inflate the wheels.
Failed to reset tire pressure error using the previous method? Then we inflate all tires to 0.2 bar, this is the pressure that should be according to the recommendations of car manufacturers. Did the error go away? Then we lower the pressure in the tires completely.
Now we pump up the wheels again. The pressure in them should be the same as indicated on the driver's door pillar or in the car's operating instructions. When there are sensors on the wheels, you need to remember about the spare tire. Now you need to drive about 3-5 kilometers, adhering to a speed of 25 km per hour. So you can reset the tire pressure error.
Remove the battery terminals and then connect it to reset the error.
Each car has a computer that receives data from all kinds of vehicle sensors, including TPMS system sensors. However, any electronics can fail. To reset the error, you will have to reboot the system, for which you need to turn off the power.
Photo: Shutterstock
To do this, open the hood. The battery is located under the hood. Disconnect the negative terminal from it. To perform this operation, use a wrench. Then sit in the driver's seat, turn the key to the "ON" position, but do not start the car. Now you need to press the signal for 3 seconds. This will use up the energy that remains in the electrical system of the machine. Then reconnect the battery. This way you can reset the error.
Sensors keep track of tire pressure. However, you need to be sure that they function properly. Of course, you do not need to constantly walk around with a special measuring device and find out the status of the sensors. It just needs to be calibrated from time to time.
It is performed quite simply. The most important thing to remember is that, depending on the make and model of your car, for each wheel there are pressure parameters strictly defined by the manufacturer for winter and summer.
These values should be given to the sensors. How the installation and configuration will be performed depends on the controller used.
Experts do not recommend using the internal controller yourself. However, additional settings are not required if the data is read using the screen that is directly on the control system. For current promotions on the Halva card, which will help you profitably purchase household appliances, you can follow here.
To prevent a tire pressure error from appearing, it is important to calibrate (adjust the TPMS system) every time a change is made. For example, when you installed a new set of wheels, repaired tires, did balancing, and the like. Using TPMS controllers is quite simple. The main thing is to read the instructions for use of the device. And make sure that the tire pressure is the one recommended by the car manufacturer.
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Every car owner gets annoyed if the tire pressure error icon lights up on the dashboard.
