My 2012 highlander has a constant light but no air leaks. Failed sensor I suspect. Not the kind that monitors each tire - just a general light. I have an OBD reader but just basic type.
Are these sensors user replaceable or is it best to pay the man?
Testing:
- Get a copy of Techstream and VXDiag cable - the cheaper cables can not write to the TPMS module in most Toyotas.
- Read the TPMS codes, determine which sensor needs replacement by letting air out of the tires 1 at a time and seeing which one(s) don't work/report the pressure change in techstream. Its usually pretty fast, within a minute or less. Do one at a time.
Once you determine the bad sensor(s)
- Remove the wheel from the vehicle and break one bead with a floor jack (youtube videos for this)
- Press the bead down near the TPMS and remove it from the rim
- TAKE A PICTURE OF THE CODE OF THE NEW TPMS
- Install the new TPMS, air up the tire, reinstall it.
- Air up all the tires to the pressure listed on the B pillar sticker.
- Write the new code in place of the code of the defective sensor using Techstream.
- Light should go off, take a short drive to confirm
Thats the easiest way I have found to do it at home without many specialized tools. The VXDiag cable and techstream are super helpful and around $100.
Pay the man.
Every car that hits the 10-12 year mark with original sensors gives me trouble. If one is bad the rest will follow. You do know there is a battery inside the sensor.
Discount Tire was $60/wheel and I replaced all four in the daughters car since she is 300 miles away at college. Now it all works perfectly.
Shop around - Wally World was $35 but hadn't had replacements for 3 months. One guy told me $100....a tire....
Always more to learn here. Not disappointed. Thanks
some Toyota's have a tpms in the spare, check the pressure in it, if it was low do a 5 tire relearn,
and then recheck it by doing a couple drive cycles