Typical lifespan
Direct TPMS sensors, the kind mounted inside each wheel, run on a small sealed battery. A commonly cited range is roughly five to ten years, though this is an estimate rather than a guarantee. Some last longer, and some fail early. Vehicles with indirect systems do not have wheel sensors with batteries, so this topic applies to direct systems.
What affects how long they last
- Age and usage. The battery drains with time and with how often the sensor transmits.
- Climate. Extreme heat and cold can shorten battery life.
- Damage and corrosion. Tire changes, curb strikes, road salt and moisture can harm the sensor or valve stem.
- Sensor quality. Original and aftermarket parts vary.
Signs a sensor is wearing out
- The TPMS light flashes at startup and then stays on. See why your tire pressure light is flashing.
- One tire shows no pressure reading on the dash, or the reading is erratic.
- A warning appears even though the tires are properly inflated. See tire pressure light on but tires are fine.
- The light will not clear after a reset.
Why isn’t one tire showing pressure?
If one wheel shows a dash with no value, that sensor may not be transmitting. Causes include a dead battery, damage, or a sensor that was not registered after a tire service. A TPMS scan tool can confirm which sensor is silent.
How to check sensor battery life
Sensor batteries cannot normally be tested with a multimeter since they are sealed inside. Many shop TPMS tools can read a sensor and report its status, and some report battery condition. Ask a tire shop to scan the sensors, especially if your car is nearing the age range above.
Should you replace all sensors at once?
You do not have to, but it is worth considering. Sensors are usually the same age, so others may fail soon after the first. Replacing all four at once can avoid paying mounting and balancing labor repeatedly. Doing it when buying new tires is often convenient. Ask your shop for advice based on your car’s age and the sensor condition.
How long does a fix take?
Replacing a sensor is usually a matter of removing the tire from the wheel, swapping the sensor, remounting, balancing, and programming, so many shops can do it in a visit. Times depend on the shop and parts availability. For costs and other fixes, see our guide to a faulty tire pressure sensor.