How to Reset and Relearn the TPMS of Nissan Armada in All Generations
With the help of this thorough guide, learn how to reset and relearn the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for all Nissan Armada versions. Discover why TPMS is so important for safety, fuel economy, and tire longevity. You may also find detailed instructions that are specific to the first and second generations of the Armada. Regardless of whether you’re changing seasonal tires, updating sensors, or rotating tires, following our comprehensive guidelines will guarantee your TPMS operates. To improve your vehicle’s performance, you should also successfully maintain your system and troubleshoot frequent TPMS difficulties. Having correctly inflated tires and a functioning TPMS will help you stay safe while driving!<>
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a crucial safety feature in modern vehicles, including the Nissan Armada. It alerts drivers when tire pressure is low, helping to prevent accidents and improve fuel efficiency. However, there are times when you need to reset or relearn the TPMS, such as after tire rotations, sensor replacements, or when switching between summer and winter tires. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of resetting and relearning the TPMS on Nissan Armada across all generations, ensuring your vehicle’s safety system functions optimally.<>
Understanding TPMS in Nissan Armada
What is TPMS?
TPMS is an electronic system designed to monitor the air pressure inside pneumatic tires. It reports real-time tire pressure information to the driver, usually through a gauge or a low-pressure warning light. The system is mandatory in many countries due to its significant role in enhancing road safety.<>
Types of TPMS Used in Nissan Armada
Nissan Armada primarily uses a direct TPMS. This system employs physical pressure sensors inside each tire to measure air pressure. These sensors transmit data to the vehicle’s computer system, which then displays the information to the driver.<>
Importance of Proper TPMS Function
A properly functioning TPMS is crucial for several reasons:<>
- Safety: It alerts drivers to potentially dangerous low tire pressure situations.
- Fuel Efficiency: Correctly inflated tires can improve fuel economy.
- Tire Longevity: Proper inflation helps tires wear evenly, extending their lifespan.
- Vehicle Performance: Correct tire pressure ensures optimal handling and braking performance.
When to Reset or Relearn TPMS
There are several situations when you might need to reset or relearn your Nissan Armada’s TPMS:<>
- After rotating tires
- When replacing one or more TPMS sensors
- After replacing tires or wheels
- When switching between summer and winter tires
- If the TPMS warning light remains on after inflating tires to the correct pressure
- Following certain maintenance procedures that might affect the TPMS
TPMS Reset and Relearn Process for Different Nissan Armada Generations
The process for resetting and relearning the TPMS can vary slightly depending on the generation of your Nissan Armada. We’ll cover the procedures for each generation, starting from the most recent.<>
2017-Present Nissan Armada (Second Generation)
For the second-generation Armada, the process is relatively straightforward:<>
- Ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressure as specified in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position, but don’t start the engine.
- Locate the TPMS reset button. It’s usually under the steering wheel or in the instrument panel.
- Press and hold the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times.
- Start the engine and wait for about 20 minutes. During this time, drive the vehicle at speeds above 16 mph (25 km/h) to allow the system to relearn the new sensor IDs and positions.
If this method doesn’t work, you may need to use the more involved relearn procedure:<>
- Inflate the tires to the following pressures for the relearn process:
- Driver’s Front: 34 PSI
- Passenger’s Front: 31 PSI
- Passenger’s Rear: 29 PSI
- Driver’s Rear: 26 PSI
- Locate the TPMS reset connector under the dashboard, near the OBD-II port. It’s typically a single-wire white connector.
- Using a thin wire or paper clip, connect this wire to ground (any metal part of the car’s body) five to six times within 10 seconds.
- If done correctly, the TPMS light on the dashboard will start flashing, indicating the system is in relearn mode.
- Drive the vehicle for about 10-15 minutes at speeds over 25 mph (40 km/h). This allows the system to register the new sensor positions.
- Once complete, the TPMS light should turn off. Remember to reinflate your tires to the correct pressures after this process.
2004-2016 Nissan Armada (First Generation)
The first-generation Armada uses a similar process to the second generation, but with some variations:<>
- Ensure all tires are properly inflated.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
- Locate the TPMS reset button and press it until the tire pressure light blinks three times.
- Start the engine and drive for at least 10 minutes at speeds above 16 mph (25 km/h) to complete the relearn process.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to use the manual relearn process:<>
- Set tire pressures as follows:
- Left Front: 36 PSI
- Right Front: 33 PSI
- Right Rear: 30 PSI
- Left Rear: 27 PSI
- Find the TPMS connector (a white, single-wire connector) near the OBD-II port under the dashboard.
- Insert a wire into this connector and ground it to the metal bracket of the OBD-II port five times within 10 seconds.
- If successful, the TPMS light will start flashing.
- Drive the vehicle for about 10-15 minutes at speeds over 25 mph (40 km/h).
- The TPMS light should turn off once the process is complete. Don’t forget to reset your tire pressures to the correct specifications afterward.
Troubleshooting Common TPMS Issues
Even with proper reset and relearn procedures, you might encounter some issues with your Nissan Armada’s TPMS. Here are some common problems and their potential solutions:<>
TPMS Light Stays On After Reset
If the TPMS light remains illuminated after following the reset procedure:<>
- Double-check that all tires, including the spare if applicable, are inflated to the correct pressure.
- Ensure you’ve followed the reset procedure correctly. Try repeating the process.
- There might be a faulty TPMS sensor. Have the sensors checked by a professional.
TPMS Light Flashes Then Stays On
This usually indicates a problem with one or more TPMS sensors:<>
- Check for any recent tire or wheel work that might have damaged a sensor.
- The sensor batteries might be low. TPMS sensors typically last 5-10 years before needing replacement.
- Extreme temperature changes can sometimes cause temporary TPMS malfunctions. If this is the case, the issue should resolve itself once temperatures stabilize.
Inconsistent Pressure Readings
If you notice inconsistent or clearly incorrect pressure readings:<>
- Verify tire pressures with a reliable tire gauge.
- Ensure the vehicle has been stationary for at least 30 minutes before checking pressures, as readings can be affected by recent driving.
- There might be a problem with a TPMS sensor. Have the system diagnosed by a professional.
Maintaining Your Nissan Armada’s TPMS
Proper maintenance of your TPMS can prevent many issues and ensure the system functions correctly:<>
Regular Pressure Checks
Even with a functioning TPMS, it’s good practice to manually check your tire pressures at least once a month. This helps you catch any discrepancies early and ensures your TPMS is reading accurately.<>
Sensor Battery Life
TPMS sensors are powered by batteries that typically last 5-10 years. If your Armada is approaching this age or has passed it, consider having the sensors checked or replaced proactively.<>
Professional Inspections
During routine maintenance or tire services, have your TPMS inspected by a professional. They can check for sensor damage, battery life, and overall system function.<>
Proper Tire Service
When having tire work done, ensure the service center is experienced with TPMS. Improper handling during tire changes or rotations can damage sensors.<>
Understanding TPMS Regulations and Standards
TPMS has been mandatory in the United States for all new passenger vehicles since September 1, 2007. Understanding the regulations can help you appreciate the importance of maintaining your system:<>
FMVSS No. 138
This Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requires that TPMS must:<>
- Warn the driver when one or more tires are underinflated by 25% or more.
- Illuminate a warning light within 20 minutes of continuous driving under these conditions.
- Be able to detect and warn about underinflation in any combination of tires, up to all four.
TREAD Act
The Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act of 2000 was the initial legislation that led to the TPMS mandate. It was enacted in response to a series of fatal accidents related to underinflated tires.<>
Advanced TPMS Features in Newer Nissan Armada Models
As technology advances, so do the capabilities of TPMS. Newer Nissan Armada models may include more advanced TPMS features:<>
Individual Tire Pressure Display
Many newer models display the exact pressure for each tire on the dashboard or infotainment screen, allowing for more precise monitoring.<>
Temperature Compensation
Advanced systems can account for temperature changes that affect tire pressure, providing more accurate readings in varying conditions.<>
Automatic Location Detection
Some systems can automatically detect the location of each sensor after tire rotations, eliminating the need for manual relearning procedures.<>
The Future of TPMS Technology
As we look to the future, TPMS technology is likely to continue evolving:<>
Integration with Other Vehicle Systems
Future TPMS may integrate more closely with other vehicle systems, such as adaptive cruise control or autonomous driving features, to enhance safety and performance.<>
Predictive Maintenance
Advanced algorithms might predict tire issues before they occur, based on pressure trends and driving patterns.<>
Wireless Charging for Sensors
To eliminate battery replacement, future TPMS sensors might incorporate wireless charging technology.<>
Conclusion
Understanding how to reset and relearn the TPMS in your Nissan Armada is an important aspect of vehicle maintenance and safety. By following the procedures outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your TPMS functions correctly, providing accurate tire pressure information and enhancing your vehicle’s safety, efficiency, and performance.<>
Remember that while these procedures are generally straightforward, if you encounter persistent issues or are uncomfortable performing these steps yourself, it’s always best to consult with a professional mechanic or your Nissan dealer. They have the expertise and specialized equipment to diagnose and resolve more complex TPMS issues.<>
Proper tire maintenance, including regular pressure checks and adhering to your vehicle’s recommended service schedule, will help keep your Nissan Armada’s TPMS functioning optimally for years to come. Stay safe on the road by keeping your tires properly inflated and your TPMS in good working order.<>