Claims Information Bulletin: Tire Pressure Monitoring System

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NNA engineering has inspected parts under the parts return program and identified a large number of Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors are replaced when there is no defect in materials or workmanship.

To assist retailers in determining when a TPMS sensor should be replaced and claimed as a warrantable repair, Infiniti is providing real world scenarios to improve understanding of TPMS normal operation. Reference TSB ITB08-015a, ITB09-050, and the appropriate ESM as needed.

Scenario 1:
A client arrives at the retailer complaining that an unknown warning light is illuminated. Immediately after cycling the ignition off and back to the on position, a SOLID TPMS light is found. The tire pressures are checked and compared to the placard pressure of 33 psi. The measured tire pressures range from 28-30 psi. You note that the weather has recently begun to turn cooler OR the client is overdue for maintenance.
  • Probable explanation: The tires have slowly lost pressure due to the seasonal temperature change or due to natural loss over time.

    Action: The tire pressure should be corrected with the ignition switch to the on position. If needed, the vehicle should be taken for a short drive to extinguish the light. This is not a warrantable condition as the system is operating correctly.
Scenario 2:
A client arrives at the retailer complaining that the TPMS warning light has been illuminated, but turns off after driving the vehicle to work. After cycling the ignition off and back to the on position, a TPMS light is NOT found. The tire pressures are checked and compared to the placard pressure of 33 psi. The measured tire pressures range from 30-31 psi. You note that the client drove 1 mile or more to your retailer and the client states that the light was on SOLID when they left their home.
  • Probable explanation: The tire pressures are below the threshold for COLD tire pressure. When the vehicle was driven, the tire temperatures increased, causing the pressure to rise 3-5 psi. This caused the light to temporarily extinguish while the tires are hot.

    Action: The tire pressures should be corrected to resolve the concern. This is not a warrantable condition as the system is operating correctly
Scenario 3:
A client arrives at the retailer complaining that the TPMS warning light is illuminated. The client states that they have added air to a specific tire several times, but the TPMS light turns on and the pressure continues to drop in one of the tires. Immediately after cycling the ignition off and back to the on position, a SOLID TPMS light is found. The tire pressures are checked compared to the placard pressure of 33 psi. One tire measures 26 psi while the other three tires measure 34-36 psi.
  • Probable explanation: The tire measuring 26 psi has a leak.

    Action: The proper leak diagnosis should be used to confirm. Repair as needed. This repair would not be warrantable if the cause is a tire puncture.
Scenario 4:
A client arrives at the retailer complaining that the TPMS warning light is illuminated. Immediately after cycling the ignition off and back to the on position, a FLASHING TPMS light is found for one minute and then it becomes solid.
  • Probable explanation: A TPMS malfunction has occurred.

    Action: Check DTCs using Consult III and use the diagnosis procedure specified by the ESM. Repair as needed. This failure may be warrantable if the failed part is due to a defect in materials or workmanship and the vehicle is still within the warranty period.


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