Honda Fit Tech Tip: TPMS Indicator Is On With VSA DTC C0077-78
The low tire pressure/TPMS indicator is on with VSA DTC C0077 or C0078 (low tire pressure threshold refinement). If the tires are inflated to the pressure listed on the doorjamb label, the vehicle has likely been driven up or down steady grades. The cause of the code and light is the TPMS software may not be properly adapted to driving up or down steady grades.
GM Tech Tip: Car With Wide And Low Aspect Ratio Tires Pulls, Wanders Or Tramlines
Some customers may comment their vehicle has a tendency to pull left or right depending on road conditions. Typical descriptions may refer to the vehicle not tracking properly or that the car wanders.
TPMS: 2011 Toyota RAV4
TPMS relearns for the 2011 Toyota RAV4 are fairly straightforward and simple. The RAV4 doesn’t have a reset button underneath the dash or within the glove box, meaning technicians don’t have to worry about getting a TPMS relearn malfunction due to the vehicle’s ECU closed loop. This also means that in order to successfully service the RAV4’s TPMS, a shop needs a dedicated TPMS scan tool.
Dealing With Swelled Lug Nuts
On a lot of vehicles made during the past 20 years, the manufacturer used a two-piece lug nut that has a chrome cap over the steel lug nut. On the new car lot, these look good on a nice set of alloy wheels. But, in as little as three years, the lug nuts could swell and make removal difficult.
TPMS: Reading The Future
There is a perception among many drivers – as well as technicians – that TPMS has become such a universal product that one system fits all and that one service procedure will cure all ills. And, although tools have made things easier because they can handle more complex diagnostic tasks than ever before, the systems and sensors can still be complicated.
GM Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
GM TPMS on Buick, Pontiac, Chevy (Chevrolet), GMC Cadillac and Hummer models are some of the easiest to service if you have the right tools and knowledge. Starting in 2007, most vehicles use a Schrader- or VDO-manufactured system that shares the same relearn procedures and behaviors. There are exceptions however, like the Pontiac Vibe.
Selling TPMS Diagnostics And Service
Properly diagnosing issues with a vehicle can take time. As the old adage goes, “time is money.” If shops aren’t charging for diagnostics, they are missing out on both time and money. Many shops want to give diagnostics away for free to sell a job, but diagnostics is something shops shouldn’t be afraid to charge a customer for performing.
Acura Tech Tip: Tire Fill Assist Activation
The Acura Tire Fill Assist system on some Acura models is designed to help drivers set the correct tire pressure by flashing lights and horn. But, it can activate when you are servicing the vehicle.
TPMS And Radio Waves: What You Can’t See Can Hold Up A Relearn
TPMS and keyless entry can be difficult to understand because these systems rely on transmitting, receiving and decoding radio waves. You can see wires connecting modules and components, but seeing radio signals takes a little faith in science.
Porsche Tech Tip: TPMS
Porsche TPMS systems use four antennas mounted in the wheel wells and a designated module for the tire pressure. The sensors use a 433mHz frequency. On most models, the menu will have the option for two sets of tires and sensor IDs for summer and winter tires.
VIDEO: Front End Repair Checklist For Pothole Season
When the winter starts to set in, more customers enter your shop having hit a pothole. Andrew Markel discusses the areas you need to check to ensure a complete repair. Sponsored by Nissan.
Getting The TPMS Light Out On The First Try
Whether the customer brings in the vehicle with a TPMS light triggered, or one triggers as a result of performing some tire service, not being able to turn off the MIL can sometimes cause headaches for shops. Here are a few commonly overlooked issues that could be triggering a warning light.
