Faulty TPMS Sensors Plague VW Passat Despite Good Tires

The TPMS issue you describe matches what I encountered with my 2015 VW Golf GTE hybrid. The constant low tire pressure warnings despite correct inflation often points to failing TPMS sensor batteries. After using a pressure gauge to verify proper tire pressure multiple times, the persistent warnings indicated sensor problems rather than actual tire issues. A diagnostic scan confirmed faulty TPMS sensors, which typically start failing around 90000-100000km as their batteries deplete. The repair requires replacing the air valve sensors in all four wheels. Each sensor communicates independently with the car's computer system. When one fails, it triggers system-wide TPMS errors and speedometer messages. This is not a serious mechanical issue, it relates purely to the monitoring system. However, driving without working TPMS means losing the safety benefit of automatic low tire pressure detection. The fix involves: Removing all tires, Installing new TPMS sensors, Reprogramming the sensors to communicate with your car, Professional tire rebalancing Consider replacing all sensors at once since the others will likely fail soon given their age and mileage. Most shops can complete this repair in 2-3 hours.

Thanks for that detailed explanation, really matches what I experienced. My VW Passat had the exact same low tire pressure warnings showing up out of nowhere. After replacing the TPMS sensors the air pressure monitoring system works perfectly again. Quick question, do you remember roughly what you paid for the full TPMS repair? In my case the total was around 400€ including parts and labor, but prices seem to vary quite a bit. Also curious if youve had any air valve or tire pressure related issues since getting it fixed?

After getting my Golf GTE serviced last month, the tire pressure monitoring is working flawlessly again. The repair cost came to 280€ total, which covered replacing the faulty sensor battery and programming. This seems like a better deal than the 400€ you paid, though prices do fluctuate between shops. The good news is that since fixing the sensor fault, the system has been completely reliable. No more unusual low tire warnings or false pressure readings. Regular tire pressure checks show everything is maintaining proper air pressure levels. Having working TPMS sensors definitely provides peace of mind, especially for catching genuine low tire situations before they become problems. The investment was worth it to restore this important safety feature and eliminate those annoying false warnings. If anyone else encounters similar TPMS issues around the 90000km mark, checking the sensor batteries should be the first step before assuming more serious tire problems.

Thanks for the helpful advice. I wanted to share how my repair experience went. After getting recommendations here, I took my Passat to a certified shop specializing in TPMS issues. The mechanic confirmed the failing sensors right away using their diagnostic tools. Like many suggested, all four air valve sensors needed replacement due to dead batteries. The tire pressure readings were actually fine when checked with a manual pressure gauge, confirming it was purely a sensor problem. The full repair took about 2 hours. They removed the tires, installed new TPMS sensors, and properly calibrated the system. The total came to 400€ which included parts and labor. While not cheap, its less than what the dealership quoted. Its been three weeks since the repair and the tire inflation monitoring works perfectly. No more false warnings or error messages. Regular tire checks show consistent readings between the dash display and manual gauge measurements. Really glad I asked here first, helped me understand the issue and avoid getting overcharged. Now I know to expect TPMS sensor replacement around 90000km as preventive maintenance.