Introduction
Testing Tire Sensors
The sensor test procedure is used to verify the sensors can transmit
valid data after they have been activated with a Low Frequency (LF)
transmission from the tool.
The tire pressure monitoring system consists of a tire pressure sensor
inside the wheel that will transmit a radio frequency (RF) signal that
contains a unique identification number (ID #), actual tire pressure, and
sensor battery condition to a module in the vehicle. The vehicle module
receives and interprets the RF signal from the sensor and warns the
driver of low tire pressure.
This test cannot verify if the sensor’s internal roll switch is functioning
properly, for that, a test drive is necessary. Refer to the vehicle service
manual for further diagnostic information. During this procedure the tool
receives sensor transmissions and displays the transmission data on the
screen.
It is important that the vehicle module knows where each sensor is
located on the vehicle, so it can indicate to the driver which tire is low on
pressure. This means that when the tires are serviced or rotated, the
vehicle module must relearn the position of each tire pressure sensor
and tire and wheel assembly.
1. The antenna of the tool should be placed against the sidewall above
the wheel rim at the valve stem location. Holding it to close to the rim
(while initiating an inner tire sensor on a dual tire configuration, may
cause the outer tire to be initiated as well).
2. Press and release the Initiate button on the tool. The circling symbol
indicates the tool is scanning for the sensor's transmission.
The tire pressure sensor outputs for a definitive period of time once the
Activate button is pressed.
3. With the tool, observe the screen and wait 3-5 seconds for the
sensor's transmission to be received. The screen should display an 8-
digit ID number, tire pressure within 2 psi of actual tire pressure,
Learn mode and good signal strength.
The main menu of the tool identifies 3 functions consisting of Initiate,
Setup and Learn modes respectively.
4. Repeat step 3 for the remaining sensors to verify all sensors are
operating properly.
NOTE: Sensor transmission data displayed on the tool screen is
erased each time the Initiate or Learn functions are selected.
Tire Rotation
It is important that the receiver has learned the correct locations of each
tire pressure sensor so the system indicates the correct location of the
tire pressure condition, as well as sensor location for diagnostic
procedures. Perform the sensor learn procedure after every tire rotation,
sensor replacement, or receiver replacement.
1. Enable the tire pressure sensor learn mode in the receiver.
Refer to the vehicle service manual for more information.
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