Tire Pressure Monitor Description and Operation (Domestic and Europe Export)
The Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system warns the driver when a significant loss, or gain, of tire pressure has occurred in any of the 4 tires and allows the driver to display all 4 tire pressures and their location on the driver information center (DIC) while the vehicle is being driven. The system uses the powertrain control module (PCM), body control module (BCM), remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR), instrument panel cluster (IPC), DIC, a radio frequency (RF) transmitting pressure sensor inside each wheel/tire assembly, and the serial data circuit to perform the system functions. When the vehicle is stationary for more then 15 minutes the sensors go into stationary mode. In this mode the sensors transmit once every 60 minutes to minimize sensor battery consumption. As vehicle speed increases, centrifugal force closes the sensors internal roll switch causing the sensor to go into drive mode. In this mode the sensors transmit once every 60 seconds. The RCDLR receives and translates the data contained in each sensor's RF transmission into sensor presents, sensor mode and tire pressure. The RCDLR sends the tire pressure and tire location data to the DIC via the serial data circuit where the tire pressures and their location are displayed as follows:
- FRONT L XX R XX kPa/psi
- REAR L XX R XX kPa/psi
When the TPM system detects a significant loss of tire pressure has occurred, the IPC displays the low tire pressure indicator and the DIC displays the following messages:
- LOW TIRE PRESS XX
- XX TIRE FLAT - MAXIMUM SPEED 55 MPH - REDUCED HANDLING
When the TPM system detects a significant gain of tire pressure has occurred, the DIC displays the HIGH TIRE PRESS XX message.
Both the messages and indicator can be cleared by adjusting the tire pressures to the recommended kPa/psi. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication or to Tire Placard in General Information. The sensors pressure accuracy from -10 to 70° C (14 to 158° F) is plus or minus 14 kPa (2 psi). The TPM system can also compensate for high and low altitudes using the PCM's barometric pressure sensor via the serial data circuit. The RCDLR has the ability to detect malfunctions with in the TPM system. Any malfunctions detected will cause the DIC to display the SERVICE TIRE MONITOR warning message. For more information on other functions of the RCDLR, refer to Keyless Entry System Description and Operation in Keyless Entry, Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) Description and Operation in Theft Deterrent and to Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) Description and Operation in Theft Deterrent.