Every car needs regular maintenance and inspections to ensure it is roadworthy. One of the most important aspects of car maintenance is checking for faults and fixing them before they cause major damage.
This article will teach you how to check your car’s TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System) light and what it means if it’s on. If your car has a TPMS light on, make sure to get it fixed as soon as possible!
What is a TPMS Light and When Does It Flash
TPMS stands for “Tire Pressure Monitoring System.” A TPMS light will flash when the tire pressure is low. The light will usually flash once every two minutes, but it cansometimes flash more often.
How to Fix a TPMS Light
When your car’s TPMS light comes on, don’t panic! You can usually fix the issue by correcting the TPMS problem. Here are three common causes of the light coming on:
-A faulty sensor
-A broken or damaged wire connecting the sensor to the computer
-A dirty or clogged sensor The first two issues are relatively easy to fix. If you have a broken or damaged wire, simply replace it. If you have a faulty sensor, you’ll need to take your car into a mechanic for repairs. In either case, make sure to clean the sensor and connect it properly before testing it again. If all else fails, replacing the entire TPMS system may be necessary.
What to Do if Your Car Doesn’t Pass an Inspection with a Tpms Light On
If you’re like most drivers, your car probably doesn’t pass inspection without the telltale TPMS light on. But what if your car doesn’t have a TPMS sensor?
Here’s how to get around that problem.
If your car doesn’t have a TPMS sensor, you can still pass inspection by following these simple steps:
1. Disable the “TPMS Off” setting in the car’s computer. This will turn off the TPMS sensor, which is required by many inspectors.
2. Fill out a “Declare Vehicle Disabled” form with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This form will declare your car unfit for road use and allow you to drive it without worry of getting ticketed.
3. Drive your car according to the manufacturer’s instructions for passing an inspection – usually, you should drive at a moderate speed and keep your RPMs low.
Conclusion
It’s important to keep your car in good condition by regularly checking the brakes, tires, oil, and other mechanical components. However, there are some areas that you may not be able to check yourself (or even know about), like the TPMS light. If your TPMS light is on and your car isn’t passing inspection, it’s time to take it into a mechanic for a review.