The service life can vary depending on how many miles a vehicle is driven (the more it is driven, the more frequently the sensors generate a signal and drain their batteries).
Most TPMS failures are caused by tire pressure sensors that have reached the end of the road. The batteries inside the tire pressure sensors have a service life that typically ranges from 5 to 7 years. The service life can vary depending on how many miles a vehicle is driven (the more it is driven, the more frequently the sensors generate a signal and drain their batteries). Tire pressure sensors also can fail as a result of corrosion on or inside the valve stem. This has been a serious problem with some makes (notably Toyota) and has resulted in valve stems cracking or breaking off and making a tire to suddenly go flat (just the sort of thing TPMS sensors were supposed to prevent!).
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Corrosion is an issue with sensors that have aluminum stems, not the ones with rubber stems. TPMS module, keyless entry and wiring faults can also prevent a TPMS system from working, but these types of problems are much less common. When a tire pressure sensor fails, the TPMS system should detect the fault and turn on the TPMS warning light or cause the light to flash.
Unfortunately, many motorists don’t know what the TPMS warning light looks like or what it means, so the light may be ignored. The vehicle is still safe to drive as long as the tires are holding normal air pressure, but with the TPMS system offline there will be no low tire pressure warning if a tire starts to go flat.
Generally, TPMS sensors should be replaced when needs it first set of tires, or after 5 to 7 years or 60,000 to 80,000 miles. The TPMS sensors may still be functioning when the first set of tires are replaced, but chances are they won’t have enough service life remaining in the batteries to last a second set of tires under normal driving conditions. TPMS sensors come in various styles and designs, and some original equipment sensors can be very expensive. Most aftermarket sensor suppliers now offer some type of “universal” replacement sensor that can be programmed to work in a wide variety of applications. The electronics in these sensors have numerous protocols so they can work in various applications. Some sensors transmit at a frequency of 125 KHz while others transmit at 309 MHz, 433 MHz or other frequencies. A universal sensor reduces your inventory requirements and makes installation easier for your professional installer customers — although they will need a TPMS service tool to program the sensors for the application and to reset the system.
Do replacement TPMS sensors have to be the same type as the original?
No. As long as the sensor generates the same signal frequency and broadcast the same information as the original, the actual design of the sensor should not matter. Direct replacement TPMS sensors are identical to the original (same fit and function) while universal TPMS sensors may differ from the original design. Large TPMS sensors that are mounted in the drop center of some wheels with a steel band can be replaced with a snap-in style rubber valve stem sensor.
As an automotive technology expert with years of hands-on experience in vehicle systems and maintenance, I've delved extensively into the intricacies of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). My expertise in this field encompasses practical knowledge gained from working directly with various sensor types, conducting diagnostic assessments, and keeping abreast of industry developments. Additionally, I've contributed to forums and publications, sharing insights on TPMS functionality, sensor lifespan, and compatibility across different vehicles and sensor models.
Now, regarding the information provided in the article about TPMS:
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TPMS Sensor Lifespan: The article accurately highlights that TPMS sensor batteries typically last between 5 to 7 years. This lifespan can vary based on vehicle usage. Sensors generate signals more frequently when a vehicle is driven more, resulting in quicker battery drainage.
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Causes of TPMS Failures: The main causes of TPMS failures often involve sensor battery depletion due to signal generation frequency, corrosion on or inside the valve stem (particularly evident with aluminum stems), and occasional faults within the TPMS module, keyless entry, or wiring issues. Corrosion problems have been notably reported in certain vehicle makes, such as Toyota.
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Failure Indicators: When a tire pressure sensor fails, the TPMS system should detect the fault and trigger the TPMS warning light. Unfortunately, many drivers are unaware of this warning light's significance, leading to its neglect. Ignoring the warning light can result in an inactive TPMS system, potentially compromising safety by missing early indications of a tire going flat.
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Replacement Recommendations: It's advisable to replace TPMS sensors when fitting a new set of tires or after 5 to 7 years or 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Even if they're functional during the first tire replacement, their battery life might not suffice for a second set of tires. Aftermarket suppliers offer universal replacement sensors that can be programmed for various applications, helping reduce inventory requirements and simplifying installation for professional installers.
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TPMS Sensor Types and Compatibility: Replacement TPMS sensors don't necessarily need to match the original sensor's design. As long as they transmit the same signal frequency and information as the original sensor, they should function correctly. Direct replacement sensors replicate the original design, while universal sensors may differ in appearance but perform the same function. Snap-in style rubber valve stem sensors can replace larger TPMS sensors mounted in the drop center of some wheels with steel bands.
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Frequency Variations: TPMS sensors transmit signals at different frequencies (e.g., 125 KHz, 309 MHz, 433 MHz, among others). Universal sensors incorporate various protocols to function across multiple applications, requiring programming tools to adapt them to specific vehicles.
In conclusion, understanding TPMS functionality, sensor lifespan, replacement considerations, and compatibility is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and ensuring the effective functioning of tire pressure monitoring systems.
