Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will warn the driver of low tire pressure, based on the recommended cold tire pressure on the vehicle placard.

Tire pressure changes with temperature by approximately 1 psi (7 kPa) for every 12°F (6.5°C). This means that tire pressure will decrease as the outside air temperature decreases.

Always set tire pressure based on the cold tire inflation pressure. This is defined as the tire pressure after the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours, or has been driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) after a three-hour period. The cold tire pressure must not exceed the maximum pressure molded into the tire sidewall. Tire pressure will also increase as the vehicle is driven. This is normal, and no adjustment should be made for this increased pressure.

TPMS will warn the driver when tire pressure drops below the low tire pressure warning threshold for any reason, including exposure to low temperatures and natural air loss through the tire.

The TPMS continues to warn the driver of low tire pressure for as long as the condition exists, and does not turn off until tire pressure reaches or exceeds the recommended cold tire pressure on the placard. Once the low tire pressure warning (TPMS warning light) is on, increase tire pressure to the recommended cold tire pressure on the placard so that the TPMS warning light turns off. The system updates automatically, and the TPMS warning light will turn off once the system receives the updated tire pressure. The vehicle may need to be driven for up to 20 minutes above 15 mph (24 km/h) for the TPMS to receive this information.

NOTE:

When inflating warm tires, tire pressure may need to be increased by up to an additional 4 psi (28 kPa) above the recommended cold placard pressure to turn off the TPMS warning light.

For example, the recommended cold tire pressure (vehicle parked for more than three hours) on your vehicle may be 30 psi (207 kPa). If the ambient temperature is 68°F (20°C) and the measured tire pressure is 27 psi (186 kPa), a drop in temperature to 20°F (-7°C) will reduce tire pressure to approximately 23 psi (158 kPa). This tire pressure is low enough to turn on the TPMS warning light. Driving the vehicle may increase tire pressure to approximately 27 psi (186 kPa), but the TPMS warning light will still be on. In this situation, the TPMS warning light will turn off only after the tires are inflated to the recommended cold placard pressure for the vehicle.

• The TPMS is optimized for the original equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressure and warning thresholds are set for the tire size installed on your vehicle. Undesirable system operation or sensor damage may result from using replacement equipment of a different size, type, and/or style. The TPMS sensor is not designed for use on aftermarket wheels and may reduce overall system performance or damage the sensor. Customers are advised to use OEM wheels to ensure proper TPMS function.
• Using non-original tire sealants may cause the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to malfunction. After using aftermarket tire sealant, it is recommended to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer to have the sensor function checked.
• After checking or adjusting tire pressure, always reinstall the valve stem cap. This prevents moisture and dirt from entering the valve stem, which could damage the TPMS sensor.

NOTE:

• The TPMS is not a substitute for routine tire care and maintenance, and it is not designed to warn of a tire malfunction or condition.
• The TPMS should not be used as a tire pressure gauge when adjusting tire pressure.
• Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes it to overheat and may lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect vehicle handling and braking.
• The TPMS does not replace proper tire maintenance. It is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure using an accurate tire pressure gauge, even when underinflation has not reached the level that triggers the TPMS warning light.
• Seasonal temperature changes will affect tire pressure. The TPMS monitors actual tire pressure. Refer to page 341.

Premium system

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses wireless technology. Electronic sensors mounted on the wheel rim monitor tire pressure. Sensors mounted to each wheel as part of the valve stem transmit tire pressure readings to the receiver module.

NOTE:

It is especially important to check the tire pressure of all tires on your vehicle monthly and maintain proper pressure. The TPMS consists of the following components:

• Receiver Module
• Four Tire Pressure Monitoring System Sensors
• Various Tire Pressure Monitoring System messages that appear in the instrument cluster display
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light