How To Replace Tire Pressure Sensor? Replacing TPMS Battery in 3-Steps
Replacing the tire pressure sensor is an easier and less costly way to maintain safe tire pressure monitoring and avoid low inflation problems: poor fuel efficiency and, under certain circumstances, possible tire blowouts.
I was looking for how to replace tire pressure sensor of my RAV4 Limited and found it requires some basic tools and a few easy steps: tire removal, undocking of the old sensor, and putting on a new one.
My journey will walk you through each step in making the replacement of a tire pressure sensor of my RAV4 Limited quite easy to do by yourself and have correct readings for a safer drive.
What Is a Tire Pressure Sensor?
A tire pressure sensor, also called a TPMS sensor, is a small electronic device inside the tire or on the wheel. It is mainly used to read the air pressure in the tire and transmit real-time information to your vehicle’s onboard computer.
When the tire pressure drops by a large margin—usually, 25% below the prescribed level—the TPMS sensor will cause a warning light to come on in your dashboard to remind you to check your tires. This helps ensure proper inflation of the tires, which is very important for safety, performance, and gas mileage.
TPMS sensors can either be direct or indirect. A direct TPMS sensor is mounted on the inside of the tire and reads pressure directly.
An indirect TPMS sensor utilizes the ABS sensors on a vehicle to estimate tire pressure by monitoring wheel speed. Proper tire pressure is very important for better performance and safety, so TPMS sensors are designed to encourage drivers to maintain an appropriate tire pressure.
| Vehicle Make and Model | Average Sensor Cost (USD) | Average Labor Cost (USD) | Total Replacement Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | $50 – $100 | $50 – $75 | $100 – $175 |
| Honda Accord | $50 – $100 | $50 – $75 | $100 – $175 |
| Ford F-150 | $60 – $110 | $60 – $80 | $120 – $190 |
| Chevrolet Silverado | $60 – $110 | $60 – $80 | $120 – $190 |
| BMW 3 Series | $70 – $150 | $70 – $100 | $140 – $250 |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | $70 – $150 | $70 – $100 | $140 – $250 |
| Audi A4 | $70 – $150 | $70 – $100 | $140 – $250 |
| Nissan Altima | $50 – $100 | $50 – $75 | $100 – $175 |
| Hyundai Elantra | $50 – $100 | $50 – $75 | $100 – $175 |
| KIA Optima | $50 – $100 | $50 – $75 | $100 – $175 |
How To Replace Tire Pressure Sensor?
TPMS replacement is required if the TPMS sensor is faulty or if the sensor has reached the end of its service life. Replacement of a TPMS sensor is not that complicated but a very precise operation, requiring some technical knowledge and the proper tools.
It is very critical to observe due care in every step, as an improperly installed sensor might give faulty readings or even cause damage. While some vehicle owners might be able to handle it with basic knowledge, others would much rather be assisted professionally to ensure accuracy.
This will ensure that the process of monitoring the tire pressure is accurate and relevant to both safety and performance.
Note: Before starting, make sure the following are available: a new TPMS sensor, a tire jack, a lug wrench, and a torque wrench.
Here is the step-by-step guideline of replacing a tire pressure sensor accordingly.
Step 1. Deflate the tire
Park your car on a level, stable surface and apply the parking brake. Raise the car using a tire jack and support it with jack stands for increased safety. Take off the wheel containing the offending TPMS sensor and loosen the lug nuts underneath with a lug wrench.
Gradually deflate the tire by removing the valve core. Use the valve core removal tool to release all air pressure. This confirms the tire’s safety for removal from the rim without damage.
Step 2. Break the Tire Bead
Use a bead breaker or a tire-changing machine to break the bead of the tire; this will mean disconnecting the tire from the rim. If you don’t have these on hand, you may have to take the tire into a professional shop to have the job done.
Step 3. Remove the Old TPMS Sensor
Now that the tire bead has been broken, slowly push the tire away from the rim to access the TPMS sensor. Remove the nut or screw that holds the sensor in place on the valve stem, then carefully remove the old sensor.
Step 4. Install the New TPMS Sensor
Mount the new TPMS sensor to the valve stem and hold it in place with the nut or screw. Tighten to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
Reinstall the tire bead onto the rim.
Step 5. Refill the tire
Refill the tire to the manufacturer’s specified pressure. Utilize a tire inflator and pressure gauge to ensure that the tire is inflated to the proper pressure.
Inspect for leaks around the new TPMS sensor to ensure it was installed correctly.
Step 6. Reput the Wheel
Place the wheel back onto the car and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands with the tire jack.
Tighten the lug nuts with a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.
What Does Tire Pressure Sensors Do?
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems are indispensable in helping maintain optimum tire pressure for safety and to enhance vehicle performance. The sensors involved here monitor the air pressure inside your tires in real-time and send an alert if the pressure falls below a safe level.
TPMS thus prevents accidents, helps improve fuel efficiency, and extends tire life by monitoring tire pressure.
Here is what TPMS does:
1. Real-Time Monitoring
TPMS sensors are constantly monitoring the air pressure in each tire and is sending that information live to your onboard computer, so you know the status of your tire pressure at all times.
2. Alert Messages
Once the tire pressure has dropped well below the prescribed level, TPMS will light up an indicator on your dashboard. This will remind you to check your tires and take action in time to avoid potential blowouts or accidents.
3. Improved Gasoline Mileage
Proper tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, which improves fuel efficiency. TPMS helps you keep your tires properly inflated, saving you money on fuel in the long run.
4. Increased tire life
Even tire wear, achieved by maintaining the correct tire pressure, extends the life of your tires. TPMS helps prevent premature tire wear, ensuring that your tires last longer and perform better.
When To Replace Tire Pressure Sensor?
According to my use experience with the RAV4 Limited, the average life of tire pressure sensors is around 5 to 10 years, depending on the driving habits and conditions.
High mileage, rough terrain, and extreme weather conditions will lower the life expectancy, while careful driving and regular maintenance might increase it; however, certain situations demand its replacement right away to keep your car safe and also to maintain the optimum tire performance.
Some Emergency Situations:
Blown-out tire:
If a tire has blown out due to low pressure, replace the sensor immediately.
A blown-out tire indicates that the sensor may have been damaged; driving without a functioning sensor can lead to further instances.
Sensor Malfunction:
If the TPMS warning light stays on or blinks constantly, it usually indicates a sensor malfunction.
A faulty sensor will provide you with false pressure readings that might compromise your safety, so you will need to have it replaced to give you a proper warning.
After an Accident:
Even though TPMS sensors may look like they’re working fine after an accident, they could be damaged.
Replacing them following an accident ensures that any hidden damage doesn’t compromise the system’s accuracy and reliability.
Before Long Trips:
Planning a long trip requires your vehicle to be in the best possible condition.
If your TPMS light is on, replacing the sensor before setting off can prevent potential tire-related emergencies, ensuring a safe and smooth journey.
Frequent Low-Pressure Warnings:
If you are getting low-pressure warnings very frequently while the tires are inflated properly, then it may be a failing sensor. Replace the sensor to be sure that you can trust the warnings and keep your tire pressure at its best.
How To Replace Tire Pressure Sensor Battery?
Replacing the battery in a TPMS will increase the life span of the sensor, which otherwise is not mandated to be replaced as an integral unit.
This is very accurate, as the sensor is a very fragile electronic unit. Here’s a step-by-step procedure on how to replace the TPMS battery effectively:
Step 1. Disconnect the TPMS sensor
Remove the tire from the vehicle and fully deflate it. Then, use a bead breaker to loosen the tire from the rim.
Now, cautiously remove the TPMS sensor from the wheel by unscrewing the nut that holds it in place. Be careful not to damage the sensor.
Step 2. Open the Sensor Housing
Once the sensor is out, gently open the housing using a small screwdriver or any other similar tool. Normally, such housings are sealed, so proceed with care to avoid damaging the internal components.
Now, once it is open, locate the battery inside the sensor. It’s usually clipped or held in place by a small holder.
Step 3. Replace the Battery and Reassemble
Take out the old battery and replace it with a new one of the same type. Make sure that the new battery is seated correctly and secured in its holder. Put the sensor housing back together, making sure that it is sealed properly to protect the internal components from moisture and dust.
Put the sensor back on the tire making sure that it is properly fastened, then remount the tire to the vehicle.
| Vehicle Make and Model | Battery Type | Average Battery Cost (USD) | Average Labor Cost (USD) | Total Battery Replacement Cost (USD) |
| Toyota Camry | CR2032 | 3.5 | 15 | 18.5 |
| Honda Accord | CR2032 | 3.5 | 15 | 18.5 |
| Ford F-150 | CR2450 | 4.5 | 15 | 19.5 |
| Chevrolet Silverado | CR2450 | 4.5 | 15 | 19.5 |
| BMW 3 Series | CR2450 | 4.5 | 20 | 24.5 |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | CR2450 | 4.5 | 20 | 24.5 |
| Audi A4 | CR2450 | 4.5 | 20 | 24.5 |
| Nissan Altima | CR2032 | 3.5 | 15 | 18.5 |
| Hyundai Elantra | CR2032 | 3.5 | 15 | 18.5 |
| KIA Optima | CR2032 | 3.5 | 15 | 18.5 |
FAQs
How Much to Replace a Tire Pressure Sensor?
The cost to replace a tire pressure sensor can vary depending on the vehicle model, the type of sensor, and whether you’re using OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or aftermarket parts.
On average, the replacement cost is typically between $50 and $250 per sensor. This includes both the part itself, which ranges from $30 to $150, and labor, which usually adds $20 to $100 per sensor.
If you replace all four at once, some service centers will discount the labor costs, and so you could save overall.
Where Are Tire Pressure Sensors Located?
Most common tire pressure sensors are located in each tire, mounted on the valve stem or strapped to the inner wheel rim. The sensor measures directly or indirectly the air pressure in the tire and then transmits this information to a vehicle’s onboard system.
A direct TPMS has its sensor mounted to the valve stem—a very common setup with today’s vehicles. On the other hand, indirect TPMS systems do not have individual sensors in each tire; instead, they rely on the wheel speed sensors in the ABS system to estimate tire pressure by means of rotational differences.
How can I tell if my tire pressure sensor has gone bad?
You might feel that your TPMS warning light stays on or blinks on your dashboard when you have already checked that your tire pressure is fine.
Some common signs of a failing TPMS sensor would be frequent false alarms or no alarm at all.
Can I replace just one tire pressure sensor?
You can replace one TPMS sensor in case only it is faulty, but since the sensors used to have a similar life, you may change all four out if they are coming to the end of their battery life.
Will I need to reset my TPMS after replacing a sensor?
Yes, typically you will need to do some kind of TPMS system reset after having replaced a sensor. You can do this with most TPMS reset tools or simply by driving the vehicle a short distance to allow the system to recognize the new sensor.
How long does a tire pressure sensor last?
Tire pressure sensors usually do last anywhere from 5 up to 10 years, again dependent on how the car has been driven, exposure to environmental conditions, and a little to do with the quality of the sensor battery.
Can I drive with a broken tire pressure sensor?
Technically, you can drive with a broken TPMS sensor; however, it’s highly not advisable. The defect sensor prohibits you from actually getting proper alerts on tire pressure, hence increasing the risk of riding on underinflated tires with potential safety risks.
How much does it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor?
The replacement cost of one TPMS sensor ranges from $50-$250 depending on the model of the vehicle, type of sensor, and labor costs. For most vehicles, changing all four at a time brings in some savings for the labor.
Do tire pressure sensors need maintenance? Generally, TPMS sensors require little maintenance, but specific damage checks when rotating or replacing tires can extend sensor life.
Besides this, it also helps in extending the life of your tire by replacing the valve stem parts of the sensor once every few years. This prevents the leakage of air.
What happens if an faulty tire pressure sensor is not replaced?
Ignoring a faulty TPMS sensor results in undetected low tire pressure, which decreases fuel economy and increases tire wear. The increased possibility of a tire blowout due to this makes driving around unsafe.
