100% Free

No Scanner Needed

Carly logo

isabellamoon1

VW Caddy TPMS Sensor Failure Causing False Alerts

Having trouble with my 2010 VW Caddy. Getting constant low tire warnings in the speedometer display even though the air pressure is correct in all tires. Used a pressure gauge to verify and all tires are at recommended levels. The warning keeps coming back after clearing. Had the error code read and it points to a tire pressure sensor fault. Has anyone dealt with this issue? Would like to know what the typical fix is and rough cost estimate before heading to the shop. Really interested in hearing from those who have gotten this resolved, what was the actual problem and how was it fixed?

4 comment(s)

karenbeck1

This sounds exactly like the issue I encountered with my 2012 VW Golf, also with constant TPMS issues despite correct tire inflation. As someone with moderate experience in car maintenance, I can share my recent experience. After multiple pressure gauge checks confirming proper tire pressure, the persistent warning indicated a sensor fault rather than an actual tire issue. The diagnostic revealed the TPMS sensor battery was depleted, which is a common occurrence in these systems after several years. Took it to a workshop where they identified the specific failed sensor. The repair involved replacing the sensor unit completely since the batteries are not separately replaceable. Total cost was 280€ including programming and system reset. Before suggesting specific solutions for your Caddy, could you confirm: Whether the warning is for one specific tire or all of them, If the warning appears immediately after starting or during driving, Whether you have had any recent tire work done, If the TPMS has been reset after your last tire pressure check These details would help determine if your situation matches what I experienced and whether you might be facing the same sensor battery issue. A proper TPMS issue diagnosis could save you from unnecessary tire replacements or other repairs when the root cause is just a sensor fault.

isabellamoon1 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed response. In my case, the warning comes from the right front tire sensor immediately after starting the car. Just checked pressure again with two different gauges to verify. Recently had the winter tires installed at 104804km, and thats when the trouble started. The warning persists even after multiple TPMS resets through the dashboard menu. Worth noting the air valve cap was a bit corroded when I did the tire check yesterday. Could a damaged air valve be causing the sensor fault? Makes me wonder if the sensor got damaged during the tire swap. Looking at all responses, seems like a sensor replacement is likely needed. Would be good to know if the air valve needs replacement at the same time as the sensor.

karenbeck1

I recently dealt with a similar situation on my VW Golf after winter tire installation. The corroded valve cap you mentioned caught my attention because that was a key indicator in my case. The air valve condition definitely matters since the TPMS sensor is integrated with the valve stem assembly. In my situation, corrosion had actually spread to the valve stem, affecting the sensor performance. When the shop replaced my faulty sensor, they automatically included a new valve stem since they come as one unit. During my tire swap, the technician mentioned they need to be extra careful with TPMS sensors during mounting and dismounting. Sometimes the sensors can get damaged if proper care isnt taken. Based on your timing of issues starting after the winter tire installation, theres a good chance the sensor was impacted during the swap. For reference, my repair included: New TPMS sensor unit with valve stem, System reprogramming, Full system reset Total cost was around 290€. Installing just a valve stem without replacing the sensor wouldnt solve the underlying pressure sensor fault, and could potentially cause more issues if the old sensor gets damaged during valve replacement. Since youre getting a specific tire location warning rather than a general system fault, its likely just the one sensor that needs replacement. Would suggest having the shop check the condition of the other valve stems while theyre at it.

isabellamoon1 (Author)

Thanks to everyone who replied. Just wanted to close the loop on my VW Caddy tire pressure sensor fault issue. Took the car to the shop yesterday and they confirmed what was suspected. The right front TPMS sensor was damaged during the winter tire swap. The corrosion on the valve stem had weakened it, making it more susceptible to damage during mounting. Final fix included: New TPMS sensor with valve stem, Programming and calibration, System reset Total came to 275€ The low tire warning is now completely gone. They checked all other sensors while it was in and confirmed theyre working properly. Definitely worth having the valve stems inspected during tire changes to catch potential issues early. For anyone searching with similar symptoms, if you get persistent low tire warnings despite correct air pressure, and it started after tire work, get the sensors checked. Waiting too long could lead to more damaged components.

Join the discussion now: