- Low Tire Pressure: If the pressure in one or more tires is lower than the recommended PSI, the TPMS will alert you. This is the most common cause and can be fixed by inflating the tires.
- Worn or Damaged Sensor: Over time, the sensors in your tires can get damaged or malfunction. This might happen after a tire change, or if the car has hit a pothole or curb.
- Battery Life in the Sensor: Each tire sensor has a battery with a limited lifespan, typically lasting 5-10 years. When the battery dies, the sensor will stop working and trigger a fault warning.
- Recent Tire Service: If you’ve recently rotated or replaced your tires, the system might not recalibrate correctly. This can cause the TPMS to show a warning even if the tires are properly inflated.
- System or ECU Malfunction: Sometimes, the fault lies within the TPMS module or the car’s ECU, which might need a reset or update.
How to Fix the Tire Pressure Sensor Fault in a Toyota Camry:
- Check and Adjust Tire Pressure:
- Use a tire pressure gauge to check all four tires. The Toyota Camry usually requires 32-35 PSI depending on the model year, but check your manual for the exact numbers.
- Inflate any tires that are underinflated.
- Reset the TPMS System:
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (don’t start the engine).
- Press and hold the TPMS reset button (often located under the steering wheel) until the light blinks three times.
- Drive the car for at least 10-20 minutes at a speed over 25 mph to allow the system to recalibrate.
- Replace a Faulty Sensor:
- If one of the sensors is faulty, it needs to be replaced. You can take your Camry to a repair shop where they’ll scan the sensors and replace the defective one.
- This usually costs between $50-$150 per sensor, depending on parts and labor.
- Hard Reset:
- Disconnect the car’s battery for about 10-15 minutes to reset the system. This can sometimes resolve communication issues between the sensors and the ECU.
- Professional Diagnostic:
- If the TPMS warning persists, a mechanic may need to run a diagnostic check on the ECU or TPMS module to ensure there are no software or hardware issues.