GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tire Pressure Monitor Description and Operation LWB

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Description and Operation Overview

The tyre pressure monitor system (TPMS) warns the driver when a significant loss of tyre pressure occurs in any of the four tyres and allows the driver to display the individual tyre pressures on the instrument panel cluster (IPC) while the vehicle is being driven. The system uses the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR)/tyre pressure monitor (TPM) module, instrument panel cluster (IPC) and four radio frequency transmitting pressure sensors inside each wheel/tyre assembly (spare wheel is equipped but inactive) to perform the system functions. When vehicle speed is less than 32 km/h (20 mph), the sensors go into stationary mode. In this mode the sensors transmit to the RCDLR once every 60 minutes to minimize sensor battery consumption. As vehicle speed increases to 32 km/h (20 mph), centrifugal force closes the sensor's internal roll switch causing the sensors to go into drive mode. In this mode the sensor transmits once every 60 seconds to the RCDLR. The RCDLR translates the information within the sensors radio frequency transmission into sensor presence, sensor mode and tyre pressure. The RCDLR then sends this information to the IPC unit via the TPM module where the tyre pressures and there locations are displayed on the IPC. If the TPM module detects a significant loss of tyre pressure or if a tyre is over inflated the tyre pressure of the affected tyre is displayed on the IPC. The IPC will flash and the affected tyre pressure warning indicator is displayed on the IPC. The IPC indicator can be cleared by adjusting tyre pressures to the recommended kPa/psi.(refer to the tyre placard). The sensors pressure accuracy range is from -10°C to +70°C (+14°F to +158°F) is plus or minus seven kPa (one psi). The RCDLR has the ability to detect malfunctions within the TPMS. Any malfunctions detected will cause the IPC to display the relevant fault message.