GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The tire pressure monitor (TPM) system warns the driver when a significant loss, or gain of tire pressure occurs in any of the 4 tires and allows the driver to display all 4 tire pressures and the tire locations on the driver information center (DIC) while the vehicle is being driven. The system uses the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR), DIC, dash integration module (DIM), powertrain control module (PCM), a radio frequency transmitting pressure sensor inside each wheel/tire assembly, and the serial data circuit to perform the system functions. When the vehicle is stationary for more then 15 minutes the sensors go into stationary mode. In this mode the sensors transmit once every 60 minutes to minimizes sensor battery consumption. As vehicle speed increases to 32 km/h (20 mph) centrifugal force closes the sensors internal roll switch, causing the sensor to go into drive mode. In this mode the sensor transmits once every 60 seconds to the RCDLR. The RCDLR translates the information within the sensors RF transmission into sensor presence, sensor mode and tire pressure. The RCDLR sends the tire pressure information to the DIC via the serial data circuit where tire pressures and their locations are displayed. When the TPM system detects a significantly under inflated, or over inflated tire, the CHECK TIRE PRESSURE warning message is displayed on the DIC. When the DIC is scrolled to display the tire pressures, additional messages are also displayed as follows, depending on that tires pressure condition:

    • TIRE OK
    • TIRE HIGH
    • TIRE LOW

The CHECK TIRE PRESSURE, TIRE HIGH, or TIRE LOW warning messages can be cleared by adjusting tire pressures to the recommended kPa/psi. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication, or to Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label in General Information. The sensor's pressure accuracy from -10 to +70°C (+14 to +158°F) is plus or minus 14 kPa (2 psi). The TPM system can also compensate for high and low altitudes using the PCMs manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor input via the serial data circuit. The RCDLR has the ability to detect malfunctions within the TPM system. Any malfunctions detected will cause the DIC to display the SERVICE TIRE MONITOR warning message. For more information on the RCDLR or remote function actuation system, refer to Keyless Entry System Description and Operation in Keyless Entry.