SUBJECT VEHICLE: 2011-2013 Kia Optima.
RELEARN PROCEDURE? Yes.
SPECIAL TOOLS NEEDED? A Kia GDS (Global Diagnostic System) with the TPMS module.
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) on a 2011 to 2013 Kia Optima monitors the air pressure in the four road tires with wheel-mounted tire pressure sensors. To do this, the system uses a TPMS receiver, four radio frequency (RF) tire pressure sensors, two warning indicators on the instrument cluster, and a data circuit to perform system functions.
The tire pressure sensor operates in two modes: stationary/rolling mode and sleep mode. In stationary/rolling mode, the sensor will measure pressure and temperature every four seconds, and measure acceleration every 60 seconds. In sleep mode, the sensor enters a low current consumption state where no measurements are made in order to conserve battery power. All sensors are in this state when new.
The sensor will not transmit unless requested to do so by the initiate command or when the vehicle accelerates to 15 mph (25 km/h).
Tire pressure monitor warning indicators
When tire pressure is below the allowed threshold, the low pressure indicator on the instrument cluster will be illuminated. If the system detects a receiver or sensor fault, or if it detects a fault that is external to the receiver or sensor, the TPMS warning indicator on the instrument cluster will be illuminated. If the fault is considered “critical,” the light will stay on throughout the entire ignition cycle.
Reset procedures
NOTE: If a tire pressure sensor is replaced, it will need to be initiated. The TPMS is not affected by wheel and tire rotation. The low tire pressure telltale illuminates when one or more tires is significantly under-inflated. The indicator will go out after the tires are inflated to the specified pressure. Ensure the warning light goes off (this may take up to four minutes if the tire is not rapidly re-inflated).
Tire pressure sensor initiation
NOTE: In the following procedure, a Kia GDS (Global Diagnostic System) with the TPMS module must be used.
1) Condition — Ignition ON and Engine OFF.
2) Holding the TPMS module within three inches (76 mm) of the sensor valve, read each tire pressure sensor ID in the following order: front left, front right, rear left, then rear right.
3) Press the ENTER button as each tire is illuminated on the screen.
4) Press the WRITE button after reading all of the sensor IDs.
5) Connect the GDS to the Data Link Connector (DLC) located under the left side of the instrument panel. Register the four sensor IDs to the receiver (see Figures 1 and 2).
NOTE: The TPMS receiver will complete the learn procedure of the new sensor after the vehicle is driven up to 20 minutes at speeds over 15 mph (25 km/h). NOTE: For the system to correctly monitor the tires for under-inflation, there should be a total of exactly four sensors, one on each of the four road wheel positions. There should be no other sensors in the vehicle since this could cause the system to monitor the wrong sensors or fail to learn a new sensor.
6) Modify any sensor ID and press the [OK] button.
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Demounting/mounting procedures
CAUTION: The tire should be demounted from the wheel using the tire changer manufacturer’s instructions. Use the following information to avoid damage during the demounting/mounting procedures.
CAUTION: Ensure that the wheel to be fitted is designed for the sensor mount. There should normally be a mark to indicate this.
NOTE: If a tire pressure sensor is replaced, it will need to be initiated. See reset procedures. The TPMS is not affected by wheel and tire rotation.
Tire pressure sensor
CAUTION: Do not use puncture repair fluid, as this can cause the sensor pressure port to block and an incorrect warning to occur.
Removal
1) Remove the wheel and tire assembly. CAUTION: Avoid tire/tool contact with the valve while demounting the tire.
2) Deflate the tire and remove the balance weights. The tire bead should be broken about 11 inches (30 cm) from the valve inside the wheel. The bead breaker should not be set too deep. Demount should end near the valve.
3) While supporting the sensor with care, remove the valve nut and remove the sensor assembly. CAUTION: The seal and seal washer should not be re-used; remove and discard.
4) While supporting the rear of the valve so there is no movement, remove the seal and seal washer.
Installation
CAUTION: Avoid bringing the tire pressure sensor in contact with the lubricant. Always handle a tire pressure sensor carefully.
1) While supporting the rear of the valve so there is no movement, install the new seal and seal washer (see Figure 3).
2) Ensure that the valve hole and mating face of the wheel are clean. Insert the sensor assembly into the wheel without modifying the angle of the valve stem. The fit should not be tight. CAUTION: Ensure the sensor feet are against the wheel throughout the remainder of the assembly process.
3) Tighten the nut by hand until it is lightly in contact with the wheel. CAUTION: While tightening the nut, do not exceed allowed torque. Do not use electric or pneumatic tools.
4) Using a torque wrench, tighten the nut to 35 ft.-lbs. (4 N.m).
5) Lubricate the tire bead (not the rim). Do not use excessive lubrication.
6) Start tire mounting about 5.9 inches (15 cm) from the valve. Move the mounting tool away from the valve. Avoid tire/tool contact with the valve. Finish with the mounting tool near the valve.
7) Adjust the inflation pressure of all the wheels. Install the valve cap.
8) If installing a new sensor, initiate tire pressure sensor. See reset procedures.
Torque specifications
Component
Wheel nut 65-80 ft.-lbs. (88-108 N.m)
Tire pressure sensor valve nut 35 in.-lbs. (4 N.m)
It is normal to feel a break as the 20 in.-lbs. (2.3 N.m) calibrated stop in the nut snaps and the torque falls. Increase torque smoothly to achieve a clean break of the stop. Do not exceed allowed torque. Do not use electric or pneumatic tools. ■
Information for this column comes from Mitchell 1’s “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Guide” for domestic and import vehicles through 2014. Headquartered in Poway, Calif., Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry for more than 80 years. For more information, visit www.mitchell1.com.
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