Tire Pressure Sensor Fault in a Toyota Avalon

Common Causes of Tire Pressure Sensor Fault in a Toyota Avalon

  1. Low Tire Pressure: The most common reason the TPMS triggers is low tire pressure. If the pressure in one or more tires drops below the recommended level, the sensor will issue a warning.
  2. Sensor Malfunction: Over time, the tire pressure sensors can wear out or malfunction. If the sensor gets damaged (due to age, hard impacts, or wear), it may stop communicating with the ECU properly.
  3. Battery Depletion in Sensors: The sensors run on internal batteries that last between 5 to 10 years. If a sensor’s battery dies, it will cause a fault.
  4. Tire Rotation or Replacement: If you’ve recently rotated or replaced the tires, the system might not recalibrate correctly, leading to a fault.
  5. Issues with the TPMS System: Sometimes the issue could be with the system itself, including software glitches or communication errors with the car’s ECU.

How to Fix the Tire Pressure Sensor Fault in Your Toyota Avalon:

  1. Check Tire Pressure:
    • Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all four tires. The ideal tire pressure for the Toyota Avalon is typically 35 PSI, but refer to the manual for the exact specs.
    • If any tires are low, inflate them to the correct pressure.
  2. Reset the TPMS System:
    • Turn the key to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
    • Find the TPMS reset button (often under the steering wheel or in the glove box) and hold it down until the TPMS light blinks three times.
    • Start the vehicle and drive for at least 10-20 minutes at speeds over 25 mph to reset the system.
  3. Replace the Faulty Sensor:
    • If the problem persists and the tires are properly inflated, one of the sensors may be faulty. A repair shop can test the sensors with a scan tool and replace the defective one.
    • The cost for sensor replacement usually ranges from $50 to $150 per tire, depending on labor and parts.
  4. Hard Reset:
    • To force a reset of the system, you can try disconnecting the car battery for about 15 minutes. This will clear the ECU’s memory and reset the TPMS.
  5. Visit a Mechanic for Diagnostics:
    • If the issue still isn’t resolved, there might be an issue with the ECU or TPMS module. A professional diagnostic scan at a repair shop is recommended in this case.