You will see the Volvo Tire pressure system service required is a warning message whenever your vehicle has a problem with the Tire Pressure Sensor. It is usually triggered when a new tire installed does not have a TPM sensor.
In addition, other factors that could trigger the message include a malfunctioned TPMS system or a damaged module. Knowing the causes will give you a better idea of how to fix the issues.
This article will examine the meaning of the Volvo Tire Pressure System Service Requires and some common causes and recommended fixes for this issue. Let’s begin!
What is Volvo Tire Pressure System Service Required?
When the required Tire pressure system service is triggered, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) detects a problem. In most cases, the problem could be that the wheels are missing TPMS sensors or the sensors are damaged.
When the issue arises, the message will appear once the vehicle speeds above 25 mph for about 10 minutes or more.
How does the TPMS work? The TPMS is an electronic system in most modern Volvo vehicles that monitors the air pressure in each tire. The system will alert the driver when the tire pressure is below the programmed PSI. The alarm system can be in the form of a warning light or message.
Furthermore, TPMS uses electrical sensors, which can be found on each of the vehicle’s wheels. The sensor communicates with the system by sending signals via low-frequency radio to the vehicle’s computer system.
Once the system can interpret the signals received from the sensor, it activates warnings to notify the driver.
Causes of Volvo Tire Pressure System Service Required
The major causes of the “tire pressure system service required” can be traced to the TPMS sensors. Any factor that affects the sensors will disrupt the functioning of the TPMS system.
Other factors can trigger the sensor, like a bad tire fix, a malfunctioning system, etc. Below are factors that could cause the warning message “tire pressure system service required.”
1. Dead sensor battery
The battery does not power the TPMS sensors; individual batteries keep them running. These sensors have 3-volt lithium batteries, which allow the sensor to function independently of the vehicle’s battery.
Like other devices that use such batteries, they can get drained because they are not designed to last forever. When this happens, the sensor will no longer function.
2. Damaged sensor
When it is not a dead sensor battery, it could be the sensor that is damaged. Like many other electrical devices, the sensor can get hurt; this could result from the sensor’s age, which means it is due for a change.
Sometimes, the sensor could be damaged by external contaminants like water, debris, and more. When the sensor is dirty, it is minor and easy to fix. However, damages to the sensor housing, connector, and wires will need replacement.
3. TPMS malfunction
Another issue that could trigger the “Tire pressure system service required” warning message is a malfunctioning TPMS system. The system could malfunction due to many problems. For example, software issues could cause the TPMS to malfunction, which may require reprogramming.
In some cases, the malfunction could be solved by resetting the system. These are less serious issues that can be solved easily by you.
4. Bad leak fixes
Leaks can affect the sensor’s accuracy, especially if the leaks are fixed using sealants. The sealant can clog the sensor, giving inaccurate readings to the TPMS system.
Also, when sealants used could render the sensor inoperable by covering the sensor and not allowing it to read the tire pressure. It will immediately trigger the warning message.
5. Damaged TPMS module
The module can be located behind the left part of the front wheel, mounted to the vehicle’s body frame. When the TPMS module is damaged in any way, the whole operation of the TPMS system will be stopped.
Once the TPMS module is damaged, the vehicle’s computer system alerts the driver that something is wrong. This alert can be in the form of the “Tire pressure system service required” warning message.
How to fix Volvo Tire Pressure System Service Required
The first step to fixing the warning message is to begin with a proper diagnosis. The easiest way is by a diagnostic tool.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by problems with the TPMS sensor. The diagnostic tool does not only tell you the cause of the problem; if it is the sensor, it shows the exact TPMS sensor that is the source of the issue.
Below are ways to properly fix a “tire pressure system service required” warning message.
1. Replace the sensor battery
First, use a scan tool to get the exact sensor that is the source of the issue. You can get which TPMS sensors you need to check with the device. All you have to do is perform a test, and the tool will determine which is available or unavailable.
Once you find the sensor that needs a battery change, find the sensor, which is usually inside the wheel at the base of the valve stem.
If the sensor has a separate battery compartment, open it carefully using any tool, like a screwdriver. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new battery. Install the sensor back in place and ensure it is properly tightened.
2. Replace the damaged sensor
Using the scan tool, find the damaged sensor using the scan tool. Once the sensor is located, check the sensor for any obvious damage, like a broken sensor body. If there are any damages, you need to replace the sensor.
3. Fix system malfunction
What you will need to do is to reset the system. Normally after inflating the tire and driving the car for a while, it should reset by itself; however, if it does not, you need to do it yourself.
To reset the TPMS system, you need a diagnostic tool to clear the errors. If the warning light does not go, it could indicate a serious problem with the system or sensor, such as a software issue. The system or sensor needs to be reprogrammed, which requires advanced tools to do so.
4. Clean sensor
If the sensor is dirty or affected by seals used to fix tire leaks, you may need to remove it and then use warm water over the board to clean it. Scrape between the IC pins to remove every of the seal gunks. Wipe again with a rag and warm water. Then hold the sensor reset button until the pressure light blinks three times and then release.
5. Replace the TPMS module
When the TPMS module is damaged, this affects the way the system works or triggers the warning message. The module needs to be replaced, and you can find it at the left front wheel, fastened to the first body frame mount.
Final thought
The TPMS safety system warns drivers about dangerously low tire pressure. It allows the driver to avert any issues from driving the vehicle in such conditions. However, the system may encounter problems with its components, leading to complete nonfunction. The driver needs to be notified, and that’s where the warning message comes up.
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