Honda vehicles are well-known for their reliability and advanced technology, including the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that helps drivers maintain proper tire pressure. If you see a “Tire Sensor Fault” warning on your dashboard, it indicates that there is an issue with the TPMS system. The good news is that this problem is usually easy to fix. In this guide, we’ll walk through the common causes of a Tire Sensor Fault in Honda vehicles and the steps you can take to fix it.
Common Causes of Tire Sensor Fault in Honda Vehicles
Understanding the common causes of a Tire Sensor Fault will help you diagnose and fix the problem faster. Here are the typical reasons why the TPMS system might fail:
- Low Tire Pressure: The most common reason for a sensor fault is low tire pressure. If one or more tires are under-inflated, the system will alert you.
- Damaged or Faulty Sensors: Each tire has a sensor that monitors pressure. If a sensor is damaged during a tire change or while driving on rough roads, it may malfunction and trigger the fault warning.
- Weak Sensor Battery: Honda’s TPMS sensors are powered by batteries that can last up to 10 years. However, if the battery weakens, the sensor may not send accurate information to the system, leading to a fault.
- Signal Interference: Electronic interference from other devices or a software glitch in the vehicle’s computer can also cause the TPMS system to malfunction.
- Temperature Changes: Sudden changes in temperature, particularly cold weather, can temporarily affect tire pressure, causing the TPMS to show a fault.
Steps to Fix Tire Sensor Fault in Honda Vehicles
If you’re seeing a Tire Sensor Fault message in your Honda, follow these steps to resolve the issue:
1. Check Tire Pressure Manually
The first and simplest step is to manually check your tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge:
- The correct tire pressure can be found in your Honda’s owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
- Use the gauge to check all four tires, making sure each is inflated to the recommended pressure.
After adjusting the tire pressure, drive the vehicle for a few miles. In most cases, the TPMS system will automatically recalibrate, and the fault message should clear.
2. Reset the TPMS System
If adjusting the tire pressure doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to reset the TPMS system. The process for resetting the system in Honda vehicles is straightforward:
- Turn the ignition key to the On position without starting the engine.
- Locate the TPMS reset button, which is usually under the steering wheel or on the lower dashboard.
- Press and hold the reset button until the TPMS indicator light blinks, then release it.
- Drive the vehicle for about 10-15 minutes at speeds above 25 mph. This will allow the system to recalibrate.
If the fault is corrected, the warning light will turn off.
3. Inspect the Sensors for Damage
If resetting the system doesn’t fix the fault, inspect the tire sensors for any physical damage. The sensors are located inside each tire, attached to the valve stem. Physical damage can occur during tire changes or while driving on rough terrain.
If you notice any damage to the sensors or valve stems, the affected sensor will need to be replaced. Since replacing tire sensors requires specialized equipment, it’s recommended to visit a Honda dealership or a certified mechanic for the repair.
4. Replace Sensor Batteries
The batteries inside the tire sensors power the TPMS system. If the battery in one or more sensors is weak, the system will no longer function correctly. Unfortunately, sensor batteries cannot be replaced on their own, so you’ll need to replace the entire sensor.
A certified Honda service center or a mechanic can replace the sensor and recalibrate the system.
5. Update Vehicle Software
Occasionally, a Tire Sensor Fault could be caused by a software issue in your Honda’s onboard system. Honda regularly releases software updates that can fix bugs or glitches in the TPMS. If none of the previous steps worked, check if your vehicle’s software needs updating.
Visit your local Honda dealer, and they can check for any available software updates that might fix the TPMS system issue.
Preventing Future Tire Sensor Faults
- Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Make it a habit to check your tire pressure once a month, especially during temperature changes, to ensure the TPMS system doesn’t falsely trigger.
- Careful Handling During Tire Changes: When getting your tires changed or rotated, make sure the sensors are handled with care to prevent damage.
- Routine Maintenance: Ask your mechanic to check the sensors during regular maintenance to ensure they’re in good condition and their batteries are still working.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure your vehicle’s software is regularly updated to avoid glitches that might affect the TPMS system.
Conclusion
A Tire Sensor Fault in a Honda vehicle can be frustrating, but with the right steps, it’s usually a quick fix. Start by checking and adjusting your tire pressure, reset the TPMS system, and inspect for sensor damage. If the issue persists, consult with a Honda-certified mechanic to diagnose the problem. Keeping your tire sensors in good condition and maintaining the correct tire pressure will ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.