GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The tire pressure monitor (TPM) system warns the driver when a significant loss of tire pressure occurs in any of the 4 tires and (w UK3) allows the driver to display the individual tire pressures and their locations on the driver information center (DIC).. The system uses the passenger door module (PDM), body control module (BCM), driver information center (DIC), instrument panel cluster (IPC), 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 the sensor's internal roll switches are open, which puts the sensors into stationary mode. In this mode the sensors sample tire pressure once every 30 seconds and transmit in stationary mode once every 60 minutes. As vehicle speed increases, centrifugal force closes the sensor's internal roll switch causing the sensors to go into drive mode. In this mode, the sensors sample tire pressure once every 30 seconds and transmit in drive mode once every 60 seconds. The PDM translates the information within this radio frequency transmission into sensor presence, sensor mode and tire pressure. The PDM (w UK3) then sends the tire pressure and tire location data to the DIC via the serial data circuit where they are displayed as follows:

    • LF TIRE XX PSI
    • RF TIRE XX PSI
    • RR TIRE XX PSI
    • LR TIRE XX PSI

The sensors compare their current pressure sample with their last transmitted pressure and will transmit in re-measure mode whenever a 1.6-psi change in tire pressure has occurred. When the TPM system detects a significant loss of tire pressure, the CHECK TIRE PRESSURE warning message is displayed on the DIC and the low tire pressure warning indicator is displayed on the IPC. Both the DIC message and the IPC indicator can be cleared by adjusting tire pressures to the recommended kPa/psi. Refer to Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label in General Information. The sensor’s pressure range is 0-703 kPa (0-102 psi). The sensors pressure accuracy from -10 to +70 degrees C is +/- 14 kPa (2 psi).

The PDM 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 other functions of the PDM, refer to Keyless Entry System Description and Operation in Keyless Entry, Power Windows Description and Operation in Doors, and to Power Door Locks Description and Operation in Doors.