Keeping your tires in top shape is crucial for your safety and your vehicle’s overall performance. One essential part of tire maintenance is ensuring that your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is functioning correctly. At Thoroughbred Auto Care in Laurel, MD, we specialize in TPMS repair services to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
What is a TPMS?
A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system built into your car that monitors the air pressure in your tires. If the vehicle’s tire pressure becomes too low or too high, the TPMS light on your dashboard will illuminate, usually as a warning. This light often appears as an icon that looks like an exclamation point inside a horseshoe. If you see this light, it’s a clear sign that one or more of your tires may be underinflated.
Why is TPMS Important?
Having properly inflated tires is vital for your vehicle’s safety and fuel efficiency. When the air pressure in your tires is too low or too high, your car doesn’t perform as well, and it can even lead to dangerous situations on the road. Underinflated tires can affect the way your vehicle handles, brake, and accelerate, especially in emergencies. It can also lead to increased wear and tear on your tires, reducing their lifespan.
A working TPMS system ensures that you’re alerted whenever the tire pressure in any of your tires is outside the manufacturer’s recommendations. This system is designed to help you avoid the risks associated with underinflated or overinflated tires, such as tire blowouts, reduced fuel economy, and poor vehicle performance.
If you vehicle’s TPMS system is acting up, contact us by phone at 301-973-6419 or via our website form to schedule an inspection at your convenience.
Common TPMS Issues
TPMS Sensor Problems
The TPMS sensors in your tires can wear out or get damaged over time. These sensors are usually located in the valve stems of your tires and measure the air pressure inside. A faulty sensor may cause your TPMS light to stay on even when your tires are correctly inflated, leading to confusion.
At Thoroughbred Auto Care, our team can replace or recalibrate faulty TPMS sensors to ensure your system is working properly. Whether you’re dealing with a single sensor issue or multiple sensor failures, we’ve got you covered.
TPMS Battery Failure
Another common issue is battery failure within the TPMS sensors. Each sensor has its own battery that powers it, and like any battery, these have a limited lifespan. When the battery dies, the TPMS sensor will no longer function, and the TPMS light will come on. Replacing the sensors is typically the solution, and we can handle this quickly and efficiently.
TPMS Light Illuminates for No Reason
Sometimes, the TPMS light may turn on even when your tires are properly inflated. This could be due to a fault in the system, such as incorrect calibration or an electronic glitch. If your TPMS light illuminates unexpectedly, bring your vehicle to Thoroughbred Auto Care in Laurel, MD. We can run diagnostics on your car’s TPMS to identify and fix the problem.
The Importance of Prompt TPMS Repair
Ignoring your TPMS light can lead to more significant issues down the road. If your tires remain improperly inflated for too long, it can result in uneven tire wear, reduced traction, and even complete tire failure. Additionally, low tire pressure can increase the load on your vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS), leading to costly repairs.
By addressing TPMS service issues right away, you ensure that your vehicle remains safe, fuel-efficient, and in compliance with manufacturer recommendations.
How We Fix TPMS Issues at Thoroughbred Auto Care
Step 1: Tire Pressure Check
When you bring your vehicle to Thoroughbred Auto Care, we start by checking the air pressure in all of your tires to ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations. If any of the tires are under or overinflated, we adjust the pressure accordingly.
Step 2: TPMS Diagnostic
Next, we use advanced tools to scan the car’s TPMS and identify any faults in the sensors or the system itself. This could involve reading error codes or checking for communication issues between the sensors and your car’s central electronic system.
Step 3: TPMS Sensor Replacement or Repair
If we find that one or more TPMS sensors are faulty, we will replace them with high-quality parts that meet or exceed the vehicle’s original specifications. In cases where recalibration is required, we reset the system so that it accurately monitors your tires going forward.
Step 4: System Reset
After replacing any sensors or performing other repairs, we perform a full system reset. This ensures that your TPMS light turns off, and the system is now properly monitoring your tires.
Step 5: Final Inspection
Finally, we test the TPMS system to make sure it’s working correctly before you leave. We double-check your tire pressure and sensors to ensure everything is in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Types of TPMS Systems We Service
Not every vehicle uses the same TPMS setup, so the right fix starts with identifying what your car has. Some vehicles use a direct TPMS system with sensors inside the wheel, while others use an indirect system that helps monitor tire pressure through wheel speed data. Both can trigger the warning light, and both can cause confusion when everything “looks fine.”
A quick check at our Laurel location helps resolve the issue without guesswork. If the problem is sensor-related, it may involve installation of a new sensor or a simple reset. If it’s an indirect system, the fix may involve recalibration after routine maintenance like a tire rotation or tire installation.
Additional Services We Offer
In addition to TPMS repair, we provide a full range of tire services at Thoroughbred Auto Care. Whether you need a simple tire rotation or a complete set of new tires, we can help. We also offer:
- Tire balancing and alignment
- Tire patching and repairs
- Full tire replacements
- Wheel alignment services
When Should You Seek TPMS Repair?
Here are a few common signs that indicate you may need to bring your vehicle in for TPMS service:
- The TPMS light remains on after adjusting your tire pressure.
- Your tires consistently lose air pressure despite being properly inflated.
- The TPMS system doesn’t alert you when your tires are underinflated.
- You notice uneven tire wear, which can be a sign of improper inflation.
If you experience any of these issues, visit Thoroughbred Auto Care in Laurel, MD, for professional TPMS repair.
How to Find Us
Located in the heart of Laurel, MD, Thoroughbred Auto Care is easily accessible for customers in surrounding areas. If you’re looking for a reliable TPMS repair shop, simply enter zip code 20707 into your GPS, and you’ll find us ready to assist with your tire needs.
Why Choose Thoroughbred Auto Care?
Our auto care business takes pride in offering high-quality repair services that keep you safe on the road. Our team is experienced in diagnosing and fixing TPMS issues for a wide variety of vehicles. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your vehicle’s TPMS system is working as it should, giving you peace of mind whenever you drive.
Your safety is our top priority, and our certified technicians work hard to ensure your vehicle meets all safety standards. Whether it’s TPMS repair or any other type of auto service, we strive to deliver the best possible results every time.
Visit Our Laurel, MD Service Center for TPMS Services
If your TPMS light comes on, don’t wait to get it checked out. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a vital part of your vehicle’s safety, helping to ensure your tires are always inflated to the proper levels. Visit Thoroughbred Auto Care in Laurel, MD, for expert TPMS service and repair, or give us a call to request an appointment at 301-973-6419. We’ll make sure you drive away with confidence, knowing your vehicle was in good hands.
TPMS Repair FAQ
Why did my TPMS light come on after a tire rotation or tire installation?
After a tire rotation or tire installation, the TPMS system may need a relearn so it knows each sensor’s new position. A quick reset at our repair store helps resolve the warning and restore accurate pressure monitoring.
Does cold weather affect my TPMS system?
Yes, temperature drops can lower tire pressure and trigger the TPMS light even when there’s no leak. If the light stays on after adjusting pressure, our tire shop can check for sensor or calibration issues.
How long do TPMS sensors usually last?
Most TPMS sensors have a life of several years, but the internal battery eventually fails and the system becomes unable to read tire pressure correctly. Replacing aging sensors helps protect your tires and supports proper routine maintenance.
Should TPMS sensors be replaced during new tires installation?
Replacing sensors during tire installation can be more convenient since the tire is already off the wheel. This can also help manage price and reduce the need for a future appointment.
When should I schedule TPMS service instead of waiting?
If the TPMS light stays on, comes back repeatedly, or fails to alert you when pressure is low, it’s time to schedule service. Addressing it early helps resolve problems before they affect tire wear or safety.
