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Will Car Pass Inspection with TPMS Light On?

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has become a mandatory safety feature in all modern cars. This system is designed to alert drivers when the tire pressure is significantly low, thereby ensuring better vehicle performance and reducing the risk of accidents. However, what happens if your car’s TPMS light is on during an inspection? Will your car pass inspection with the TPMS light on? In this article, we will address this question and provide you with some vital information regarding TPMS and car inspections.

Understanding TPMS and Its Purpose

TPMS is an essential safety feature that monitors the air pressure in each tire of a car. It uses a sensor to continually measure tire pressure and send signals to the vehicle’s computer system. When the tire pressure drops below a specified threshold, the TPMS light on the dashboard illuminates, indicating the need for immediate tire pressure correction. The primary purpose of TPMS is to enhance vehicle safety by alerting the driver about low tire pressure, which can cause decreased fuel efficiency, tire wear, and compromised handling.

Why is TPMS Important for Inspection?

During a car inspection, the inspector examines various components of the vehicle to determine its roadworthiness. TPMS is one of the critical systems that inspectors pay close attention to. The presence of a functioning TPMS shows that the vehicle owner takes safety seriously and ensures that the tires are adequately inflated. Since low tire pressure can significantly impact vehicle performance and increase the risk of accidents, a properly functioning TPMS is vital for inspection.

Can a Car Pass Inspection with TPMS Light On?

In most cases, a car cannot pass inspection with the TPMS light on. Most state regulations require that all dashboard warning lights, including the TPMS light, be off during an inspection. The reasoning behind this requirement is that a malfunctioning TPMS indicates potential safety issues that need to be addressed. It could mean that one or more tires are underinflated, which can compromise vehicle stability, especially during emergency maneuvers or sudden stops.

Consequences of Failing Inspection due to TPMS Light

If your car fails inspection due to the TPMS light being on, it means that you need to rectify the TPMS issue before it can pass. Typically, the inspector will provide a document explaining the reason for failure, which you will need to present to a qualified mechanic for TPMS diagnosis and repair. The consequences of failing inspection can vary depending on local regulations, but they often include:

1. Driving with an expired inspection sticker, which can lead to traffic tickets and fines.
2. Inability to renew your vehicle registration until the TPMS issue is resolved.
3. Compromised safety as driving with underinflated tires can increase the risk of accidents.
4. In some cases, insurance companies may refuse coverage or charge higher premiums if your car fails inspection due to a safety-related issue like TPMS.

Common Causes of TPMS Light On

If your TPMS light is on during an inspection, it is essential to understand the common causes. By identifying the underlying issue, you can address it promptly and avoid failing the inspection. Here are some potential reasons for a TPMS light to illuminate:

1. Underinflated Tires: The most common cause of a TPMS light is low tire pressure. It is crucial to regularly check the air pressure in each tire and inflate them to the recommended level.
2. Faulty TPMS Sensor: TPMS sensors can fail over time due to battery depletion, internal damage, or electronic issues. A faulty sensor will require replacement to resolve the TPMS light issue.
3. TPMS Valve Stem Failure: The valve stems that house the TPMS sensors can deteriorate or become damaged, leading to air leakage and triggering the TPMS light.
4. Electrical or Computer System Malfunction: Issues with the electrical wiring or the vehicle’s computer system can prevent accurate TPMS readings, resulting in the TPMS light staying on.

Addressing TPMS Issues

If your car fails inspection due to a TPMS light, it is crucial to address the issue promptly. Here are the steps you can take to resolve TPMS-related problems:

1. Check Tire Pressure: Start by checking the air pressure in all tires using a reliable pressure gauge. Inflate any underinflated tires to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
2. Inspect Tires for Damage: Examine the tires for signs of punctures, cuts, bulges, or other visible damage that may cause air leakage. If you notice any significant damage, consider replacing the affected tire.
3. Visit a Qualified Mechanic: If checking tire pressure and inspecting for damage does not resolve the TPMS light issue, it is advisable to take your car to a qualified mechanic. They have the diagnostic equipment and expertise to identify and repair TPMS-related problems.
4. Replace Faulty TPMS Sensors: If the TPMS light remains on even after addressing tire pressure and tire damage issues, it is likely that one or more TPMS sensors have failed. A qualified mechanic can identify the faulty sensors and replace them accordingly.
5. Reset the TPMS System: Once the TPMS issues are resolved, the TPMS system needs to be reset to clear any error codes and turn off the TPMS light. Depending on your car’s make and model, this may require specialized equipment or following specific procedures outlined in the owner’s manual.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a car typically cannot pass inspection with the TPMS light on. TPMS plays a crucial role in ensuring vehicle safety by alerting drivers about low tire pressure. Failing inspection due to a TPMS issue can result in consequences such as fines, inability to renew vehicle registration, compromised safety, and potential insurance concerns. It is important to promptly address TPMS-related problems by checking tire pressure, inspecting for damage, visiting a qualified mechanic, replacing faulty sensors, and resetting the TPMS system. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your car passes inspection and remains safe on the road.