How the Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System Works
The Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is designed to alert drivers when the tire pressure is critically low, ensuring optimal tire wear and performance. Here’s how it works:
Sensor Operation: The TPMS uses small sensors inside each tire to track the air pressure levels. These sensors transmit the tire pressure data to a module in the vehicle using radio frequency ID (RFID) technology.
Alert System: When the TPMS senses seriously low pressure in one of the tires, it triggers the low tire pressure icon to appear in the instrument display, accompanied by a warning message in the Multi-Information Display.
Indirect vs. Direct System: There are two types of TPMS systems – indirect and direct. In the indirect system, the driver is made aware of a tire pressure issue, but still needs to determine which tire is low. With a direct TPMS system, the light illuminates and the vehicle indicates which tire is low on pressure.
Maintenance: It’s important to note that the TPMS is not a substitute for regular tire pressure checks with a gauge. The system is designed to complement manual checks, and drivers should not rely solely on the monitor system for tire pressure maintenance.
In summary, the Toyota TPMS uses sensors inside each tire to monitor air pressure levels and alerts the driver when critically low pressure is detected, providing an additional layer of safety and maintenance for optimal tire performance.
Contents
- What causes TPMS sensors to go out?
- What is the life expectancy of a Toyota TPMS sensor?
- How does Toyota monitor tire pressure?
- What brand of TPMS does Toyota use?
- What does Toyota recommend checking tire pressure with?
- Where is the Toyota TPMS reset button?
- How long do Toyota tire pressure sensors last?
- Why is my tire pressure light on when my tires are fine Toyota?
- How much does it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor on a Toyota?
- Do Toyota TPMS sensors have batteries?
What causes TPMS sensors to go out?
The number one reason TPMS sensors fail is physical damage. Sensors operate in a harsh environment of extreme temperatures and vibration. These forces can damage transmission coils, pressure and temperature sensors. Another reason sensors fail is due to damage during removal and installation.
What is the life expectancy of a Toyota TPMS sensor?
Most TPMS sensors run on batteries that are built into the sensor and these batteries are not replaceable. The life expectancy of the lithium ion batteries in a TPMS sensor is anywhere from 5-10 years.
How does Toyota monitor tire pressure?
A TPMS from one of two manufacturers is fitted as part of the valve assembly in all Toyota cars according to the table shown below. The sensor measures the pressure and temperature in the tire and transmits this data along with the unique ID of the TPMS to the tire pressure monitor ECU/receiver.
What brand of TPMS does Toyota use?
The manufacturers of the Toyota TPMS are TRW Automotive and Pacific Industrial Corp. The Toyota Model range utilising TPMS Technology includes: 4 Runner – TPMS Sensors. Avalon – TPMS Sensors.
What does Toyota recommend checking tire pressure with?
All you need is a tire pressure gauge, your vehicle’s owner’s manual, and an air compressor which can be found at most gas stations. To start, check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended psi. Then, unscrew the air valve cap and press your gauge to get a reading of each tire’s current psi.
It is typically located beneath the steering wheel, near the driver’s sidekick panel, or on the dashboard. Once you’ve found the TPMS reset button, press and hold it for approximately three seconds. You may need a pen or a similar tool to reach it.
How long do Toyota tire pressure sensors last?
5-10 years
TPMS sensors are designed to last for many years – 5-10 years is a likely lifespan. Given their cost, most drivers will be inclined to replace TPMS sensors on an “as needed” basis – in other words, only once their batteries have expired, or other TPMS components have failed.
Why is my tire pressure light on when my tires are fine Toyota?
The causes can be a malfunction, or the weather changes. Other reasons why your TPMS light may still be blinking is because your tire may be damaged, or you might have gotten a recent tire replacement. Overall, the reasons can be vast, which is why it is best to take your car to a technician for professional diagnosis.
How much does it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor on a Toyota?
The average cost to replace the TPMS Sensor is between $314 and $368.
Do Toyota TPMS sensors have batteries?
Toyota (or Pacific) used a watch style battery for the sensor. There are no markings so I’m not sure it would be easy to find a place to buy one. If I were serious about, I’d do the research. The TPMS battery looks a bit like a CR2032, so I’ll use that battery.