How to reset low tire pressure light bmw


BMW E90 Tire Pressure Warning Light Reset | E91, E92, E93

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Applicable Models:

  • BMW E90 3-Series (2006-11)
  • BMW E91 3-Series (2006-12)
  • BMW E92 3-Series (2007-13)

Tire pressure warning light on? This tech article explains how the system works and how to reset it.

Hot tip

Follow steps for resetting closely.

Wayne R. Dempsey, Co-Founder & DIY Expert

Nick Czerula, DIY Expert

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Figure 1 A rubber, flexible valve stem utilizes wheel speed. Figure 2 A solid aluminum stem that has a nut on the base is a TPMS sensor system The tire pressure information is used to notify you of a low tire pressure condition. If a tire loses pressure, a warning lamp is illuminated in the instrument cluster and a warning chime sounds. This is a very helpful system. If you have a tire puncture and are losing air, you will be notified, therefore allowing you to immediately pull over and reduce the damage to the tire. Any time you have a warning message related to tire pressure, immediately pull over and check all four tire pressures. If you had a low tire and repaired the problem, you will have to reset the tire pressure monitoring system. This can be done easily using the turn signal stalk or through your iDrive menu, if equipped. When checking air pressure, always use a plastic valve stem cap. A metal one can seize onto the TPM sensor and damage it. This applies to TPMS sensor equipped vehicles. Figure 3 Tire pressure information for your vehicle is located in the driver door jamb on the label shown in this photo. Resetting the TPMS system using the turn signal stalk Read the entire procedure before beginning. Once read, it will be easier to follow the steps. Start your engine but keep vehicle in Park. Figure 4 Using the buttons on the turn signal level. Use the rocker button (green arrow) to scroll through instrument cluster until you reach the TPMS RESET menu. Figure 5 Once you get to the RESET screen, press the BC button on the end of the turn signal stalk once to select the RESET function. (green arrow) Figure 6 Then press and hold the BC button for about 5 seconds until a small check mark appears next to the RESET symbol. Once the check mark appears, drive you vehicle to reset the system If the system will not reset, check the TPMS system for fault codes using a BMW scan too. Resetting the TPMS system using the iDrive menu Read the entire procedure before beginning. Once read, it will be easier to follow the steps. Start your engine but keep vehicle in Park. Figure 7 Press iDrive menu (green arrow) button, then press iDrive controller down (yellow arrow) to select setting menu. Figure 8 Scroll to vehicle tires, then press down to select. (green arrows) On tire menu, scroll to select reset, then choose YES by pressing iDrive button. Once button is pressed to select YES, drive your vehicle to reset the system If the system will not reset, check the TPMS system for fault codes using a BMW scan tool. Add a New Comment

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Applicable Models:

  • BMW E90 3-Series (2006-11)
  • BMW E91 3-Series (2006-12)
  • BMW E92 3-Series (2007-13)

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How to Reset Your Tire Pressure Light

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Your tire pressure light provides a critical reminder to restore the pressure in your vehicle's tires when it gets low. You should only attempt to reset the light after first addressing the tire pressure in every tire. Once your tires are at the appropriate pressure, the light may go off on its own. If it doesn't go off right away, driving at 50 mph for about 10 minutes should help the tire pressure sensor reset.

If the tire pressure light is still on, there are a few more tricks you can try:

  • Turn the car key to "on" but don't start the vehicle. Press and hold the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times. Release the button and start the car. The light should go off within 20 minutes.
  • Disconnect the positive battery cable while the vehicle is off. Turn the car on and press the horn for three seconds to discharge the remaining power. When you reconnect the battery the tire pressure light should be off.
  • Overinflate all the tires (including the spare) with 3 PSI, then deflate them completely. Re-inflate the tires to help reset the light.
  • Bring your vehicle to our service center for professional assistance.

IS TPMS the Same as Tire Pressure Light?

Image via Unsplash by introspectivedsgn.

 TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The tire pressure light is one component of this electronic system, providing a visual alert when your tire pressure is low. The TPMS monitors tire pressure using either an indirect or direct method.

An indirect TPMS measures the rate of revolution for each wheel. If a wheel starts spinning faster than anticipated, the system signals to your vehicle's computer that something is amiss with the tire rotation, and your tire pressure light comes on. You must manually reset the monitor in an indirect TPMS system.

A direct TPMS uses pressure monitoring sensors in each tire to monitor tire pressure exactly. This is a more accurate alternative to an indirect TPMS system. The batteries inside these sensors will last for about 10 years. Direct TPMS systems reset automatically after tire inflation or rotation. You do need to have these sensors resynchronized when you get new tires, which requires a special tool.

Can Cold Weather Cause Your Tire Pressure Light to Go On?

Yes, cold weather will affect the air pressure in your tires. Your tires lose one or two pounds per square inch (PSI) for every 10 degrees that the temperature drops. Cold air condenses while warm air expands. Therefore, the colder air in your tires will take up less space in lower temperatures.

You may find that your TPMS light is only illuminated for a short time in the morning on particularly cold days. After about 20 minutes of driving, the air will often warm up and expand, restoring proper pressure in your tires. If the light stays on after 20 minutes on the road, you should add air to your tires as needed to restore the proper pressure. Low tire pressure is hazardous for your vehicle regardless of the cause.

Why Is My Tire Pressure Monitor Light On When My Tires Are Fine?

When the tire pressure monitor light is on, the first thing you should do is check the pressure in each of your tires, including the spare. Check the manufacturer's recommendation to determine the appropriate pressure for each tire. This is typically between 30 and 35 PSI but may vary. You should measure tire pressure when the tires are cold, which means they have not been driven in the last three hours.

To check the pressure, simply unscrew the valve cap and insert a tire gauge into the valve stem. The gauge will provide a clear reading. Replace the valve cap when you're finished. If your tires are all at the appropriate pressure, there's a malfunction with your TPMS. Bring your vehicle to an authorized dealership service center to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Is it OK to Drive With My Tire Pressure Monitor Light On?

If the tire pressure monitor light is on, you should check your tire pressure as soon as possible. Low tire pressure creates a serious hazard on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 738 people died in tire-related crashes in 2017. When tire pressure is low, the tire has more contact with the road. This may cause the tire to overheat, leading to tread separation, excessive tire wear, or a blowout.

Low tire pressure also wreaks havoc on your fuel efficiency. You can save up to 11 cents per gallon simply by keeping your tires properly inflated. You'll also save money on tire replacements with adequate inflation. Keeping your tires properly inflated can add 4,700 miles to the tire's average lifespan.

The tire pressure monitor light gives you valuable information and should not be ignored.

Do I Need to Replace My TPMS When I Get New Tires?

You do not necessarily need to have your TPMS sensors replaced with new tires, but this is a good time to check them and make sure they're still in good condition. If you have an indirect TPMS system, your mechanic will need to manually reset the sensors after changing your tires. If you have a direct TPMS system, no additional maintenance is required to reset the system.

A new TPMS system will typically last for about 10 years before the batteries run out. If you have an older vehicle, you may need new sensors every five or six years. Your mechanic can advise you on the best time to replace TPMS sensors for your vehicle. When new sensors are installed, the system must relearn the location of each tire, which requires a detailed series of technical procedures. You should leave this task to a professional. 

If you need tire service for your Toyota, come to Kings Toyota for prompt, reliable service. Our highly-trained technicians are equipped to assist with any type of tire issue, whether you need new tires or have a malfunctioning tire pressure sensor light. Make your appointment today.

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How to reset the BMW X4 tire pressure sensor?

You are the proud owner of a recent car, the benefits of haptic devices, the integrated technologies, however, should bring you a noticeable comfort of using your BMW X4, which says that the technology speaks of electricity, and as we all unfortunately know , sometimes there are problems to fix. Today we will focus on the tire pressure sensor and exactly how to reset the tire pressure sensor on the BMW X4 so that this indicator never appears on the dashboard again. To do this, we will divide our content into two parts: first of all, we will talk about the traditional circumstances when the tire pressure indicator appears and the method to follow, and then the tire indicator remains on despite being inflated air. tires, so how to reset this tire sensor on BMW X4.

How to reset the tire pressure sensor on the BMW X4? Looking at the pressure in your tires

First, we will focus on the typical way to reset the tire sensor on the BMW X4, which if it lights up, here are the main steps:

  • As you almost certainly know, An under-inflated tire can explode or explode if you are driving and your BMW X4's tire pressure lights come on, get out of the way immediately if you are driving on a highway, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel just in case.
  • Once stopped, visually check the condition of your tires , if one of them is completely flattened, change the wheel, if it is only under-inflated, go carefully to the gas station.
  • Check the tire pressure of your BMW X4 using a pressure gauge and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. on a sticker in the driver's door.
  • If you find during this re-inflation that the tire is damaged, replace it. on the BMW X4. The indicator light should have gone out or gone out after a few seconds. . If this is not the case, we suggest you go through the next section.

How to reset the BMW X4 tire pressure sensor, which is always on when the tire pressure is high didn't work, we'll move on to the second solution, which is to have the tires on my BMW X4 well inflated and I still want that light to go away. This almost certainly means you have

Faulty tire pressure sensor. This will require to reset the value on your car's dashboard. However, be careful not to do this while driving as pressure fluctuations will interfere with the pressure sensors. Typically, you need to look at the car's configurations, then you should look for an option to diagnose inflation or "deflate detection". While on this tab, you must hold the select button or reset button according to the year of your BMW X4. until a message appears from the car console confirming that the reset is taken into account (usually takes a few seconds). You can now turn off the ignition and restart your BMW X4 to see if the tire pressure light has gone out.

Alternative solution for removing the tire pressure sensor on the BMW X4: Replace the faulty tire pressure sensor.

If, despite your reset, the tire pressure indicator on your BMW X4 does not go away, then the best way is to go to the workshop, it is almost certainly a tire pressure sensor on the valve that is faulty or defective on your BMW X4 . Keep in mind that in general the unit price is around 120 euros. Another option that some choose to do because the problem may recur in some series is to disable the sensors with your carrier and diagnose your vehicle. However, this approach is not recommended as it can lead to mishandling and malfunction of your BMW X4. Now you have all the keys to know how to reset the tire pressure sensor on the BMW X4.

To learn more about the BMW X4, take a look at the BMW X4 category.

BMW X3 (F25). Management - part 17


09/19/2019

(votes: 3, rating: 4.67)

questions considered in the material:

  • Why do we need tire pressure sensor
  • states of the reason for the operation of the sensor
  • What are the ways to reset the error of the tire pressure sensor
  • How are the tire pressure sensors configured

When the tires are optimally inflated, the low tire pressure indicator (TPMS) does not light up on the vehicle 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.

Why Tire Pressure Sensor is Necessary

American and European scientists conducted a study, which found that most drivers do not check whether the tires are properly inflated before driving 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.

TPMS (Tyre pressure monitoring 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.

Why is too high or too low pressure dangerous? The risk of an accident increases, the car begins to consume more fuel, in addition, the rubber wears out faster.

The above devices operate on the same principle. Let's figure out how information about what tire pressure gets to the control panel.

  • Each wheel is equipped with a controller. It records tire pressure data.
  • Information is transmitted from the sensor to the transceiver with a frequency of 2-3 seconds . The controller transmits data using Bluetooth.
  • The program analyzes the received data, which should correspond to the normal values ​​ . Otherwise, when the tires should be lowered a little, the program sends a signal to the car owner. Exactly according to the same principle, a signal is transmitted if the rubber needs to be pumped up.
  • Depending on the device, error signals can be sound or light .
  • The driver can set the operating parameter limit himself . As a standard, the automaker makes it possible to adjust the device from 1. 7–3.2 bar.
  • On some car models, the TPMS system sends data to your phone.

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.

Pressure standards

For proper control, it is important to ensure that the BMW tire pressure sensor shows the desired numbers. Where to get them?


Tire pressure gauge

There are special tables in which these norms are written. Let's imagine some of them:

  1. The pressure in BMW X1 tires with R16 wheel sizes should be 2. 2/31 in the front wheels, and 2.5/35 in the rear. If the size is R17, you should adhere to the following indicators: 2.0 / 29and 2.3/33. Accordingly, front and back.
  2. In modifications of the BMW X3 with wheel diameters R15 and 16, the gauge should show 1.8/26 and 2.2/31. And in the BMW X3 E90, the indicator corresponds to 2? 2 / 32 and 2.7 / 38.
  3. It is important to keep the pressure in BMW X5 tires with a diameter of r15 at 2.0 / 29 and 2.2 / 31. And with the size R16 - 2.2 / 34 and 2.7 / 39.

This is not all the data on the required pressure rate. For those who do not know what the specific indicators of their model are, it is better to have an instruction manual for the car handy. Each modification has its own numbers. And, the owner must understand this. For example, the pressure in BMW E70 tires with different wheel diameters should be different: r18 - 2.1 / 30 and 2.3 / 33. A r192.1/30 and 2.5/36. The same rate is allowed in the front wheels.


Standards table

Causes of tire pressure sensor activation

The sensor will still respond, even though 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:

  • the tire is not inflated enough;
  • you have fitted a different wheel whose shape, dimensions and tread are different;
  • a “spare wheel” was supplied, it also differs in parameters from other wheels;
  • rubber has been punctured or torn;
  • there is an uneven load on the car, as a result the car skewed to one side;
  • you have installed anti-skid chains on the wheels;
  • one of the axes has been overloaded; this happens when you are driving uphill or downhill, towing a trailer.

Also, the TPMS system gives an error when you install new wheels or rearrange them.

When, after these steps, a tire pressure error occurs, 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 these problems may occur:

  • Different tire pressures . Some wheel is under-inflated or vice versa.
  • The error occurs because the system has crashed . It will only be possible to reset it at the service station.
  • The indicator lights up when you operate the car using a sporty driving style, driving on ice, dirt road . At the same time, as soon as you drive out onto an asphalt surface or start driving calmly, the error disappears.
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How to reset a 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.

Please note!

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 indicator is on, but the tires are in perfect condition. How to reset tire pressure error? We understand.

Tire Damage Indicator

Introduction

The Tire Damage Indicator (RPA) monitors tire pressure while driving.

The entire weight of the vehicle is supported by tire pressure. If the tire pressure drops, the tires sag. As a result of the resulting deformation in the driving mode, this quickly leads to additional damage to the failed tire. The tire may burst.

Approximately 80% of all tire punctures are caused by small holes (eg from a nail). Holes lead to a slow loss of tire pressure. Many "tire bursts" are attributed to pre-damage resulting from the slow loss of tire pressure.

Slow loss of tire pressure may not be noticeable for a long time. Insufficient tire pressure while driving becomes clearly visible with a rapid complete loss of tire pressure.

When the tire pressure drops, the radius of the tire decreases and thus the distance traveled by the tire in one revolution. As a result, the angular velocity of the wheel with the damaged tire increases. The RPA senses wheel speed via the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) wheel speed sensors. RPA compares the individual wheels with each other and outputs an average speed. The RPA thus recognizes the pressure drop in the tyre.

The RPA recognizes that the value has fallen below the initial value, starting from approx. 30% ± 10%. The RPA warning light indicates a drop in tire pressure. RPA starts informing after passing a short section of the road, usually after a few minutes, starting from a certain minimum speed (for example, 25 km/h) up to a corresponding maximum speed.

> Various control units for tire damage indicator [system overview …]
> A total drive vehicle E46 [System Review ...]
> E46, E53, E83, E85, E86 [System Review ...]
> E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63, E63 E64 [System Review ...]
> E65, E66 [System Review ...]
> E70 []
E87, E90, E91, E92, E92, E93 [system overview …]
> R56 [System overview …]

In appearance (initialization, RPA warning lamp, behavior, diagnostics) for the driver, the systems hardly differ from each other, despite different manufacturers in different series.

Attention! Driver's responsibility

Check tire pressure regularly, at least twice a month and before going on a long trip. The set tire pressure is adopted during initialization as the initial value for the current set of tires.

If the same pressure drop occurs in 4 tires, then the angular velocity of the wheel changes by the same amount. The RPA may not recognize a uniform tire pressure drop (eg diffusion = natural air release from 4 tires)

Attention! The tire damage indicator cannot be guaranteed to work properly when the spare wheel is used.

Due to the significantly smaller spare wheel diameter, the correct operation of the RPA tire damage indicator is no longer guaranteed.

A few simple ways to reset the tire pressure sensor error

A complex TPMS system starts to work incorrectly in some cases. 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.

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 incorrect operation may lie in the sensor, which is "glitched". 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.

Method 1.

To reset the error, increase the speed to 80 km/h and drive 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.

Method 2.

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 flash 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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Method 3.

Lower and then re-inflate the wheels.

Failed to reset the 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 inflate 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.

Method 4:

Disconnect the battery and then reconnect it to reset the error.

Each car has a computer that receives data from various vehicle sensors, including TPMS 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.

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.

Tire pressure monitoring system

Attention!

The RDC system cannot warn of sudden and severe tire damage, rupture due to external factors.

The tire pressure monitoring system (RDC) or tire damage system (RPA) monitors the pressure in all four wheels while the vehicle is in motion. When the pressure in one or more tires drops, the indicator on the instrument panel lights up, which informs that the pressure in the tire (s) drops noticeably. The pressure rates (1 bar = 1 kgf / cm2) of air in the tires are given on a plate fixed to the end of the driver's door (Fig. 1.58) and are indicated at normal tire temperatures. recommended by BMW.

Fig. 1.58. Pressure table

When driving with a trailer, you must be guided by the figures given for the maximum loaded vehicle. When checking tire pressure, do not forget about the spare or compact tire, the pressure in it should be 4.2 bar. Checking the tire pressure should be carried out some time after its adjustment in order to allow the processes in the injected air to proceed.

Attention!

Tire pressure should be checked regularly, at least twice a month, and every time before a long trip.

If tires of other sizes and brands are fitted, the pressure may not correspond to the table value. The compact wheel does not have an RDC sensor. Incorrect tire pressure adversely affects vehicle handling and increases the risk of tire damage. shortens their service life and may cause an accident. In order for the RDC system to remember the correct pressure values, it is necessary to check the air pressure in the tires of all wheels on the device (pressure gauge) and compare them with the table values ​​and, if necessary, correct it. Now you can enable the RDC system. The inclusion of the RDC system must be carried out in the following order: — check and correct the tire pressure; - turn the ignition key to position "2", start the engine, but do not move from a place; - press the key (Fig. 1.59) and keep it pressed until the system indicator on the instrument panel lights up yellow for a few seconds; - start moving.

supercar m8 Fig. 1.59. RDC system

Release the button. A few minutes after the start of the movement, the RDC system will remember the tire pressure readings and take it as a program value. If the tire pressure has been adjusted, then it is necessary to repeat the procedure for memorizing it by the RDC system, otherwise the system turns on automatically when the ignition key is set to position “2” and the system is always in working condition during the movement. When the pressure in one or more tires drops, the yellow indicator on the instrument panel lights up and the message "Check Tire Pressure" appears on the display of the self-diagnosis system. Sometimes the requirement to check the pressure appears soon after it has been corrected. This means that the tires were over-inflated or under-inflated during the adjustment. It is necessary to check the pressure again, bring it to normal and turn on the RDC system again. If a tire is damaged (abrupt depressurization), the yellow indicator on the instrument panel lights up, the message “Tyre Defect” appears on the display of the self-diagnosis system and an audible signal sounds. In such circumstances, it is necessary: ​​

- take your foot off the gas pedal; - if traffic conditions permit, do not use the brake pedal or use it very carefully; - direct the car, avoiding sudden movements of the steering wheel; - slow down to a complete stop of the car; - replace the damaged wheel It is important to remember that the RDC system may experience interference from other systems and devices operating on its frequency. During interference, the yellow indicator on the instrument panel lights up and the message "Tire Control Inactive" appears on the display of the self-diagnosis system. Similar information is received: - in case of malfunctions in the system; - if one of the wheels does not have an RDC system unit; - if there are other wheels with an RDC system unit in the car, not counting the spare wheel; - after the use of non-standard units of the RDC system on wheels (exchange of information on a different frequency). Memorization of new identification numbers lasts several minutes, only after that the system is able to respond to a drop in tire pressure and notify about it.

Твитнуть

How tire pressure sensors are adjusted

The sensors keep track of how much 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 quite simple to carry out. 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.

  • Mechanical controller . It is convenient to use. We just screw it in instead of the cap. Nothing else needs to be configured.
  • Electronic controller . The installation procedure will be more difficult, because the device has a control unit. It can work autonomously or you will need to connect it to the cigarette lighter. We turn on the device in the training mode. Then proceed according to the tuning algorithm that is set by the manufacturer. You will have to put the device on all wheels, starting from the left front. Once the installation is done, make sure that all gauges are correctly displayed on the monitor. Otherwise, you will have to rearrange them so that everything matches the parameters on the display.

  • Internal controller . Such devices are the most difficult to mount, because for this you will have to use special equipment for tire fitting. 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.

To prevent a tire pressure error from occurring, it is important to calibrate (adjust the TPMS system) each 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 when the tire pressure error icon lights up on the dashboard. This indicator informs you that something is wrong with the wheels. However, even if the tire pressure is optimal, the tire pressure error must be reset.

The fact is that if the TPMS system icon constantly signals insufficient pressure, the driver will not be able to know when the rubber will actually begin to deflate. Driving becomes dangerous for both you and other road users. It is necessary to find out the cause of the malfunction as soon as possible and reset the tire pressure error. This is the only way to operate the vehicle safely.

BMW E38 CLUB

How tire pressure sensors work

A punctured tire is always very unpleasant. But it is better to know about the flat tire in advance - this is where tire pressure sensors will help.

The first patent for a tire was obtained in 1846, and since then the wheels have been constantly punctured. It is clear to anyone that a flat tire does not bode well. Yes, and dropped pressure can be very dangerous: it’s not for nothing that in the “Daily Maintenance” section of the car’s operating instructions, the item “Checking tire pressure” is one of the first.

When a tire "breathes", the rolling resistance increases significantly. Where does this lead? To an increase in fuel consumption, increased tire wear and, of course, to the side slip of the car. Moreover, such a small drift to the side can be attributed to the slope of the road or rut. So the driver, by mistake or inexperience, can continue to move for quite some time. And the most dangerous thing about this is that in an emergency, for example, during a sharp maneuver or braking, a flat tire can break off the disc or turn over. And here it is not far from the accident.

Therefore, this disgrace must be fought with all our might. And the sooner the driver notices the loss of pressure, the better. Of course, the easiest way is to check the pressure before the trip by connecting a pump or pressure gauge to each wheel in turn. But we are lazy and forgetful people. And the pleasure of poking around in the cold or in the rain with some kind of devices is small. Moreover, there is already a whole bunch of systems that can check this same pressure.

Chinese made caps indicate pressure loss by changing color. Informativeness is good, accuracy is questionable.

The simplest of them are special caps with color indicators that are installed instead of the standard caps on the boost valves. The pressure dropped below, say, two atmospheres - a warning yellow (orange, purple) strip will appear under the transparent cap of such a miracle cap. Yeah, it's clear that something is wrong with the wheel, we need to check. The pressure has dropped even lower - the cap will “paint” in a different, usually red color, which will indicate the criticality of what is happening. The advantage of this approach is simplicity. Minus - not enough good information content. After all, the caps can only be seen during a stop. Still, getting around the car before the trip, looking at the colors of the caps, is much easier than measuring the pressure every time.

Another disadvantage is that the caps start informing about the change in pressure only when it falls below some certain values, which, by the way, can be quite normal for your car and your wheels. So, you need to select them exactly for your car.

The radio sensors of many electronic monitoring systems are mounted on the disk using special clamps.

And in order to notice something wrong while driving, it would be nice to have an electronic system on board that would automatically notify you of dangerous pressure drops. And not just notify, but would do it on time (so that there was time to orient) and without false positives.

The installed control system in this case will warn the driver at the right time about a change in the corresponding parameter and give him enough time to stop the car safely. It is clear that in cases of a serious puncture or explosion of a tire, such systems will not help, since the driver will feel the car pull without any sensors. But with a “slow” puncture, such electronics are simply irreplaceable. There are, for example, systems that transmit tire pressure and temperature data to a central unit via radio. And there are those who can transmit this data via Bluetooth to phones or communicators. Well, it's very convenient.

Pirelli's X-Pressure pressure monitoring system. In the simplest version of Optic, it consists of four caps that are installed on regular valves. And they signal a drop in pressure by a change in color.

But there are more tricky systems that work without "real" pressure sensors, but through ABS. It is they who are usually put in the standard configuration of cars. How do they work?

Electronics with the help of sensors at each moment of time determines the speed of the wheels and their relative difference. As you know, when the pressure drops, the height of the tire profile becomes lower. Consequently, the speed of rotation of the wheel with the "sick" tire increases, therefore, the difference in the frequencies of rotation of the wheels on the same axle also increases. As a result, the system captures these changes - and gives an alarm signal.

Acoustic X-Pressure system. Sensors are built into the caps that register pressure, and radio transmitters that provide communication with the central unit. As soon as the pressure has dropped, a corresponding indication appears on the display of this unit and a warning sound signal is heard. Batteries in caps are enough for about 5 thousand hours of operation, which corresponds to five years of operation. Replacement of batteries in the caps is not provided, therefore, at the end of the service life, the set must be changed completely.


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