Will a Tire Pressure Sensor Fail Inspection?
Can a Faulty Tire Pressure Sensor Cause Inspection Failure?
It depends on your state’s inspection requirements. In some areas, a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) will cause a failed inspection, while in others, TPMS is not checked as part of the inspection process.
When a Bad Tire Pressure Sensor Can Cause Inspection Failure
✅ If TPMS is required by state law – Some states (like New York, Massachusetts, and Virginia) require a working TPMS for vehicle safety inspections.
✅ If the TPMS warning light is on – Some inspectors fail vehicles if the tire pressure warning light is illuminated.
✅ If TPMS is checked as part of emissions or safety tests – Newer vehicles with advanced monitoring systems may be flagged for issues.
When a TPMS Issue Won’t Cause Inspection Failure
❌ If your state doesn’t check TPMS – Many states do not include TPMS in inspection requirements.
❌ If the light is off at inspection time – Some inspectors ignore TPMS if it’s not active during the test.
❌ If your car is older than 2008 – TPMS became mandatory in 2008, so older vehicles may not be affected.
How to Fix a TPMS Issue Before Inspection
- Check Tire Pressure – Inflate tires to the correct PSI to see if the light turns off.
- Reset the TPMS System – Some cars require a manual reset after adding air.
- Replace a Dead TPMS Sensor – Sensors fail after 5–10 years due to battery depletion.
- Use an OBD-II Scanner – Check for TPMS-related trouble codes before inspection.
Final Thoughts
A bad tire pressure sensor can fail an inspection if your state requires TPMS functionality. However, in many states, TPMS is not part of the inspection process, meaning it won’t affect passing or failing. Always check local regulations before your inspection.
FAQs
1. What states require TPMS for inspections?
- States like New York, Massachusetts, and Virginia may fail a vehicle for a TPMS light on.
- Many other states do not check TPMS at all.
2. Will disconnecting the battery reset TPMS?
Sometimes, but most vehicles require a manual TPMS reset procedure.
3. How much does it cost to fix a TPMS sensor?
- New TPMS sensor: $50–$150 per wheel.
- Labor cost: $20–$50 per sensor installation.
4. Can I pass inspection with the TPMS light on?
It depends on state laws—some inspectors ignore it, while others require it to be off.
5. How long do TPMS sensors last?
Typically 5–10 years before battery failure requires replacement.
