Tire Pressure Sensing System Problem

[AlK]

Has anyone had experience with the tire pressure sensing system? About a week ago, I noticed my driver's side rear wheel pressure sensor was inoperative. No big deal I thougt - I can live without it for a while; the other 3 are working. But then shortly thereafter I began getting the message "TPC Inactive" and all 4 sensors became inactive. But after driving awhile, the system again became active, except for the original inoperative left rear sensor. Now over the past week the system toggles back and forth, active/inactive with no set pattern. Does anyone know what might be causing this bizarre behavior? Also, how accurate are the individual pressure sensors? It appears that they always read 2-4 lbs low compared with manual measurements taken with an accurate pressure guage.

[Meirschwartz]

You might need to replace the batteries located on each and every tire valve.
I think it can be done only at the dealer.

[JFP in PA]

“Federal Nanny” fun and games department; you cannot replace the just the batteries, you will need to replace the TPM sensors, which means dismounting the tire, so you will also be in the market for a fresh tire balance as well. Oh, and the sensor itself will set you back north of $100 each as well.

As a Federally mandated safety system, most states include this system in their annual inspection process, so you have no choice but fix it.

[pavegeno]

Looking for an update...2008 Cayman - delivered in Aug 2007 now continuously shows "TPC Inactive." Do you really have to swap the sensors or is it just a battery change?

Thanks!

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by pavegeno

Looking for an update...2008 Cayman - delivered in Aug 2007 now continuously shows "TPC Inactive." Do you really have to swap the sensors or is it just a battery change?

Thanks!

There is no way to change the batteries, you have to change the entire sensor(s).

[pavegeno]

UPDATE...new sensors scheduled for next week. Car is in perfect shape but can't pass Hawaii state inspection due to TPMS not working...how about that? With Hawaii's inflated prices (gas is over $4 all the time and shipping for products from the mainland blows) this fix will cost about $700. Guess that will happen every 5-6 years.

All because a bunch of idiots couldn't keep their tires inflated on their SUVs back in the early 2000s and had some nasty wrecks when their tires gave up on them. Another instance of other's laziness costing us all money...rant over...move along.

[pavegeno]

Sensors changed out...system now working...