If your Honda Element’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light has suddenly turned on, it can be concerning and leave you wondering why.
In this article, we will delve into some of the common causes for the TPMS light coming on in a Honda Element.
Why is my Honda Element TPMS light coming on?
There are various reasons why the TPMS light may come on in your Honda Element, ranging from simple fixes to more complex issues. Here is a breakdown of some common causes:
- Low tire pressure
- Malfunctioning tire pressure sensor
- Defective TPMS control unit
- Battery failure in the TPMS sensor
- Faulty wiring or connection issues
- Corrosion on the wheel rim or valve stem
- Incorrectly installed or mismatched tires
- Extreme temperature changes affecting tire pressure
- Damage to the tire causing air leakage
- System recalibration needed due to tire rotation or replacement
Low tire pressure
Reasons: One of the most common causes for the TPMS light coming on in a Honda Element is low tire pressure. This can occur due to various reasons, such as natural air leakage over time or from punctures in the tire caused by debris on the road.
Low tire pressure can also be a result of temperature changes, as cold weather can cause tires to lose air pressure.
Symptom/sign: The TPMS light will illuminate the dashboard when the tire pressure is low, usually indicating a difference of 25% or more from the recommended pressure. In some cases, you may also notice a decrease in fuel efficiency and handling performance due to low tire pressure.
Immediate action: If the TPMS light has come on due to low tire pressure, the first step is to check all four tires’ pressure with a reliable tire gauge. Make sure you refer to your Honda Element’s manual for the recommended tire pressure.
In case of any significant difference, add air to the tire until it reaches the recommended pressure. If the tire is punctured, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
Solutions: To avoid low tire pressure and prevent the TPMS light from coming on, make sure to regularly check your tire pressure at least once a month.
It is also important to check for any visible damage to your tires and have them inspected by a professional if necessary.
Additionally, if you live in an area with extreme temperature changes, monitor your tire pressure more frequently during these periods.
Malfunctioning tire pressure sensor
One common reason for the TPMS light to come on in a Honda Element is due to a malfunctioning tire pressure sensor.
This sensor is responsible for monitoring the air pressure in your tires and alerting you when it falls below the recommended level.
Reasons: There are several possible reasons why a tire pressure sensor may malfunction. It could be due to a dead battery, damage to the sensor itself, or electronic interference.
Symptom/sign: The most obvious sign of a malfunctioning sensor is when the TPMS light comes on and stays illuminated even after you have checked and adjusted your tire pressure.
Another indicator may be receiving inconsistent readings from the sensor, such as constantly fluctuating tire pressure levels.
Solutions: Some solutions may include replacing the damaged sensor or simply resetting the system. It is best to consult with a professional for proper diagnosis and resolution.
Introduction of Defective TPMS control unit
Another common problem that has been reported by many Honda Element owners is a defective TPMS control unit. This piece of equipment is responsible for monitoring the tire pressure levels and alerting you through the TPMS light when there is a potential issue.
Reasons: The most common reason for a defective TPMS control unit in the Honda Element is due to wear and tear over time. As with any electronic component, the TPMS control unit can malfunction after prolonged use.
Another possible cause is damage to the control unit due to external factors such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or physical impact.
Additionally, a faulty battery in the TPMS control unit can also lead to its failure.
Symptom/sign: The most obvious sign of a defective TPMS control unit is the illuminated TPMS light on your Honda Element’s dashboard.
However, this light may not always indicate a problem with the control unit itself and could also be triggered by other issues such as low tire pressure or a damaged sensor.
Solutions: If you have determined that the TPMS control unit is indeed defective, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue.
One option is to replace the entire control unit, which may be costly depending on your vehicle’s warranty and where you get it serviced.
Another solution is to have the control unit repaired by a professional mechanic or dealership. This may be a more affordable option, but it is crucial to ensure that the repair is done correctly to avoid any future issues.
Battery failure in the TPMS sensor
While the TPMS control unit may be the most common culprit, another possible cause for the TPMS light on your Honda Element is a faulty battery in one of your sensors.
The TPMS sensor is responsible for monitoring the air pressure in your tires and sending that information to the control unit. This allows you to know when your tires are underinflated, which can affect your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency.
However, if there is a battery failure in the TPMS sensor, it will no longer be able to transmit this information accurately. This can lead to false readings and trigger the TPMS light on your dashboard.
Symptom/sign: The most obvious symptom of a battery failure in the TPMS sensor is a continuously illuminated TPMS light on your Honda Element. This warning light may come and go, but if you notice it consistently, it’s important to address the issue.
Additionally, you may notice that your tires are not holding air pressure like they used to or that your vehicle is not driving as smoothly as before.
Solutions: If you suspect that a faulty sensor battery is the cause of your TPMS light, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue.
The first option is to replace the affected sensor completely. This may be costly, but it ensures that the issue is fully resolved and prevents any future problems.
Another solution is to have the battery in the sensor replaced by a professional. This is a more affordable option, but keep in mind that the battery will eventually need to be replaced again.
It’s important to note that attempting to replace the sensor or its battery yourself may cause further damage, so it’s best to leave it to a trained technician.
Faulty wiring or connection issues
If there are any issues with the wiring or connections, this communication may be disrupted, causing the light to come on.
Reasons: There are several potential reasons for faulty wiring or connection issues in your TPMS sensor. Over time, the wires may become damaged due to wear and tear, exposure to extreme temperatures, or other factors.
Additionally, the connections between the sensor and your vehicle’s computer system may become corroded or loose, resulting in a loss of communication.
These issues can also be caused by improper installation or previous repairs done incorrectly.
Symptom/sign: The most obvious symptom of faulty wiring or connection issues in your TPMS sensor is the constant illumination of the TPMS light on your Honda Element’s dashboard.
This light typically looks like a cross-section of a tire with an exclamation point in the middle and is labeled “TPMS” or “Tire Pressure.”
You may also notice that your vehicle’s computer system is not receiving accurate information about tire pressure, resulting in incorrect readings or warnings.
Solutions: If you suspect that faulty wiring or connection issues are causing the TPMS light to come on, it’s important to address them as soon as possible.
First, check all of the wires and connections for any visible damage or corrosion. If you find any, they will need to be repaired or replaced by a professional mechanic.
Additionally, make sure that your TPMS sensor is properly installed and calibrated according to Honda’s specifications.
Corrosion on the wheel rim or valve stem: Another common cause of the TPMS light coming on in a Honda Element is corrosion on the wheel rim or valve stem.
Reasons: Corrosion on the wheel rim or valve stem can occur due to exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as salt and moisture from roads during winter. This can cause the metal parts of the wheel to rust and weaken over time.
Additionally, using certain cleaning products that contain corrosive chemicals can also contribute to the corrosion.
Symptom/sign: The most obvious sign of corrosion on the wheel rim or valve stem is the TPMS light turning on. This is because the sensor responsible for monitoring tire pressure may be affected by the corrosion, causing it to send incorrect readings.
In some cases, you may also notice a decrease in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and handling due to the affected tire.
Solutions: If you notice the TPMS light on in your Honda Element, the first step is to check the tire pressure and inflate it to the recommended levels. If this does not resolve the issue, then it’s likely that corrosion is causing the problem.
In such cases, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic who can inspect and clean the affected area or replace any damaged parts.
Incorrectly installed or mismatched tires: Another possible reason for the TPMS light to turn on in a Honda Element is due to incorrect installation or mismatched tires.
This occurs when the tire pressure sensors are not properly calibrated according to Honda’s specifications or if different types of tires are used on the same vehicle.
Reasons: There are a few reasons why this issue occurs. One possibility is that the tires were not properly installed during the last tire change, leading to uneven pressure distribution.
This can also happen if mismatched tires are used on your Honda Element, which can cause differences in tire size and pressure.
Symptom/sign: The obvious sign of this issue is the TPMS light turning on. In some cases, you may also experience a decrease in fuel efficiency or uncomfortable driving due to the unevenly distributed pressure.
Solutions: If you’re facing this issue with your Honda Element, don’t panic! The solution is relatively simple. First, make sure that all four tires are properly installed and have the correct air pressure according to your vehicle’s specifications.
If you’ve recently changed your tires, double-check that they are all the same size and type.
If necessary, visit a certified mechanic to have them check for any potential issues.
Extreme temperature changes affecting tire pressure
Another reason the TPMS light may come on is due to extreme temperature changes.
In cold weather, tire pressure decreases and in hot weather, it increases. If you live in an area with drastic temperature changes, this can lead to fluctuations in your Honda Element’s tire pressure.
Reason: This happens because air molecules tend to expand when heated and contract when cooled, causing changes in tire pressure.
Solution: The best way to avoid this issue is by regularly checking your tire pressure and adjusting it accordingly.
You can also opt for nitrogen instead of regular air, as it tends to maintain a more consistent pressure despite temperature changes.
Additionally, investing in a good quality tire pressure gauge can help you keep track of your tires’ pressure levels.
Damage to the tire causing air leakage
Next common cause for the TPMS light to turn on is due to damage in one or more of your tires.
Reasons: This could be caused by a puncture, leak, or even wear and tear over time. If you notice any visible damage to your tires, it’s crucial to get them repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Solution: Regularly inspect your tires for any signs of damage, and if you do notice any issues, get them repaired or replaced immediately.
Not only will this prevent the TPMS light from turning on, but it will also ensure the safety and longevity of your tires.
System recalibration is needed due to tire rotation or replacement
Lastly, if you recently rotated or replaced your tires, the TPMS light may come on due to a need for system recalibration.
is This is because the tire pressure sensors are typically placed in specific locations on each wheel and need to be reprogrammed when there is a change in tire position.
Solution: To avoid this issue, make sure to inform your mechanic or perform a tire rotation yourself, so they can recalibrate the TPMS system accordingly.
It’s also essential to have the correct tire pressure set for each specific type of tire on your vehicle.
How to reset TPMS on the Honda Element?
To reset the malfunctioning tire pressure sensor system on the Honda Element, follow these steps:
- Park your Honda Element in a safe location and turn off the engine.
- Locate the TPMS reset button under the steering wheel.
- Press and hold the button until the TPMS light blinks twice. This may take up to 10 seconds.
- Start the engine and allow it to run for about 20 minutes.
- Drive your vehicle at speeds above 15 mph for at least an hour to allow the system to recalibrate.
If resetting the system does not resolve the issue, it is recommended to have a professional inspect and possibly replace the sensor.
It is also important to regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure to prevent sensor malfunctions. This can be done by using a tire pressure gauge or visiting a professional for regular maintenance checks.
FAQs
How do you turn off TPMS on a Honda Element?
If you’ve tried all the solutions mentioned above but your TPMS light is still on, you may need to manually reset it.
To do this, follow these steps:
- Turn off your vehicle’s ignition.
- Locate the TPMS reset button under the steering wheel.
- Press and hold the button until the TPMS light blinks twice.
- Start your vehicle and drive at a speed of 28mph or higher for at least 20 minutes.
This should reset the TPMS system, and the light should turn off.
If it doesn’t, there may be an issue with the sensors themselves, and you should have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic.
The TPMS reset button can typically be found under the steering wheel on the left side.
It may also be located in the fuse box or near the gas pedal.
If you’re having trouble finding it, refer to your vehicle’s manual for its exact location.
Sources
https://repairpal.com/honda/element/tire-pressure-warning-light
https://www.roushhonda.com/blog-what-does-the-tpms-light-mean/
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