What is an SVC tire monitor?
Tire pressure is a key factor for safety on the road. Today’s modern vehicles are equipped with monitors that monitor tire pressure. If there’s something wrong with the system or your tires have low pressure, you may see an SVC tire monitor warning on your dashboard or infotainment display.
This guide explains what the tire warning means and why it comes on. We’ll also show you some ways to fix the problem and provide answers to some of the most important questions:
What does the SVC tire monitor warning mean? The SVC tire monitor message means that your tire pressure is low or there’s a fault in the monitoring system. It might have an image that looks like a tire with an exclamation mark in the middle and a message written to get your attention.
Some vehicles even show the air pressure in each tire. Typically, these messages appear when tire pressure is 25% lower than recommended. Additionally, failure of a major system component can cause erroneous data to be sent and trigger an alarm.
This warning message is common on many Chevrolet models, such as the Chevrolet Malibu, Cobalt, and HHR. It is also found on other GM vehicles.
Causes of SVC Tire Monitor Warning When you see the SVC Tire Monitor warning, it tells you that there is a problem with the tires or the monitoring system. The problem could be sensor memory loss or sensor failure. It could also be that you changed tires without resetting the system or that the tire pressure is too low.
Let’s take a closer look at all these options.
1. Tire Pressure Sensor Memory Loss
The TPMS sensor may lose connection with the main system. This can be caused by low battery voltage or other system interruptions. Without a connection, the computer thinks there is a problem with the tire pressure. This causes the system to detect an error and turn on the service light.
2. Tire pressure sensor failure
It is also possible that the tire pressure sensor is faulty. The location of the sensor makes it susceptible to failure. Dirt, debris, and road grime constantly bombard the sensor. It’s even worse if you’re driving on unpaved, unpaved roads. Add vibration to the mix and damage happens even more frequently.
On average, TPMS sensors last 5-10 years without needing to be replaced. Fortunately, the repair is not that complicated.
3. Replaced wheels without realignment
It might be fun to upgrade your wheels to something more stylish. Or maybe you need different wheels for your winter tires. Either way, it’s important to install new sensors on those wheels to monitor your tire pressure. If you do not install the sensor on the rim, the system will detect an error. In addition, the sensor must be calibrated after installation.
4. Tire pressure sensor does not reset
The tire pressure sensor must be calibrated to work with the main sensor. If it loses connection, it must be recalibrated. The same is true if you put on a new wheel. Either way, tire sensors that are not reset and adjusted will trigger an alarm in the system.
5. Low Tire Pressure
TPMS Light and Service The most common reason for the tire pressure warning to come on is that one of your tires is not properly inflated. If a tire is deflated, the system will still work as intended. Driving with low tire pressure is dangerous. Over time, tires will lose air naturally. In addition, temperature fluctuations also affect tire pressure. Otherwise, your tires may develop a hole and leak air.
How to Fix SVC Tire Monitor Message
If you have basic tools and mechanical knowledge, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Before you begin, consult your manufacturer’s service manual for manufacturer-specific instructions. Once you’ve reviewed the basics, follow these steps:
1. Inflate or deflate your tires
Before anything else you do, make sure your tires have the proper air pressure. Too much or too little pressure can set off the sensor. This is the easiest solution and therefore the best place to start.
Consult your owner’s manual to check the proper air pressure for your vehicle. There is a card with all the information about your vehicle, including the correct tire pressure.
If you have a tire pressure gauge, you can perform this test directly at home. It is best to check the pressure when the tires are still cold before driving. If you have a portable air compressor or tire inflator, you can inflate them without going anywhere. Otherwise, you’ll need to go to a nearby gas station or service center to get some air.
2. Reset the tire pressure light
The light should reset automatically once you inflate your tires. If not, you may need to reset it manually. Any of these methods may work:
– Drive at least 80 km/h for 10 minutes. Stopping and restarting the car will reset the indicator light.
– Turn the key to the “ON” position, but do not start the vehicle. If your car has a TPMS reset button under the steering wheel, press and release it three times. Start the car and let it run for 20 minutes.
– Inflate the tire 3 PSI above the recommended setting. Deflate the tire. Do the same on the spare tire if it has a sensor. After deflating the tire, refill it to the recommended level to reset the light.
– With the vehicle turned off, disconnect the positive cable from the battery. This will reset the clock, radio presets and other electronic functions. Turn the key and wait. This will use up any remaining power needed to reset the sensor light. Reconnect the battery and try again.
If none of these methods work, you will need to move on to step 5. A professional may have different procedures specific to your vehicle.
3. Read the Error Codes
If other lights on your dashboard are on, something bigger may be wrong. For example, if the traction control light or check engine light is on, you’ll need to find out what’s going on. You can use a compatible code scanner to read the system. We then compare that information to our online error code library and fix any existing issues.
4. Reprogram your tire pressure sensors
If you’ve replaced a wheel or installed a new sensor, you’ll need to reprogram it. If you have a TPMS calibration tool, you can do this at home.
You may also be able to connect your sensor by following one of the relearn steps above. If not, you need to be brave and take the next step.
5. Consult a professional
If you have a tire store near you, it may be a good idea to ask them for help. A tire store mechanic will have the tools and equipment to diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
Can I drive with the SVC tire monitor warning on? Even if the indicator light is on, it is possible to continue driving; your car will physically drive. However, it is not safe to drive with low tire pressure; the tire could burst and cause an accident. Even if the pressure is correct, the Check Engine Light will not tell you if there is something else wrong with the system while it is on.
How do I reset an SVC Tire Monitor warning?
You must first resolve the cause. Contact your local tire dealer for further assistance.
How long does a tire pressure sensor last?
The tire pressure sensor has a lifespan of 5 to 10 years under normal conditions. Because the sensor is mounted on the wheel, it is prone to premature failure when driving on unpaved roads. Dirt, mud and sediment can cause premature wear and excessive vibration.
It is important to take SVC tire pressure sensor warnings seriously. In either case, your ride could be at risk. Remember that the tires of your car are the only part that actually comes into contact with the road.
