Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System). This is a super important system that helps keep you safe on the road. We'll be going over everything from what it is, how it works, what to do if the light comes on, and how to troubleshoot common issues. So, whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or just trying to keep your Forester in tip-top shape, this guide has got you covered! Let's get started. The TPMS in your 2019 Subaru Forester Sport is designed to constantly monitor the air pressure in your tires and alert you if the pressure drops below a certain level. This is crucial because underinflated tires can lead to all sorts of problems. They can decrease fuel efficiency, cause uneven tire wear, and even increase the risk of a tire blowout. The TPMS typically consists of sensors inside each tire that transmit pressure readings to a receiver in the car. If the system detects that one or more tires are significantly underinflated, it will trigger a warning light on your dashboard. This light is usually a symbol that looks like a horseshoe with an exclamation point in the middle. Seeing this light means it's time to check your tire pressures ASAP!

Understanding the TPMS System

Alright, let's break down the TPMS system a bit further. The primary function of the TPMS is to monitor your tire pressure and alert you when something's not right. The system is made up of a few key components. First, you have the tire pressure sensors. These little guys are usually mounted inside the tire, often attached to the valve stem. Each sensor has a battery, a pressure sensor, and a transmitter. They're constantly measuring the air pressure and temperature of the tire and sending this data to the car's computer. Next up is the receiver module. This is usually located somewhere in the vehicle, like near the dashboard or under the seats. It receives the signals from the tire pressure sensors and processes the information. Then, there's the ECU (Engine Control Unit), which is the brain of the operation. The ECU receives the data from the receiver and determines if any of the tire pressures are too low. Finally, there's the dashboard warning light. This is what you see when the system detects a problem. When the light illuminates, it's your cue to check your tire pressures. The TPMS in the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport is a direct TPMS. This means that each tire has its own sensor that directly measures the pressure. This is different from an indirect TPMS, which uses the wheel speed sensors of the ABS system to estimate tire pressure. The direct TPMS is generally considered more accurate because it provides a direct measurement of the pressure. The system is designed to provide you with a warning when your tire pressure is 25% below the recommended inflation pressure or at a pressure of 20 PSI or below. The system is a lifesaver, really, but it's not foolproof. The system can be affected by interference from other electronic devices, and the sensors themselves can eventually fail.

What to Do When the TPMS Light Comes On

So, what do you do when that pesky TPMS light pops on your dashboard? Don't panic! It's usually a straightforward fix. First and foremost, you'll want to check your tire pressures. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge and check the pressure of all four tires, including the spare if you have one. You can find the recommended tire pressure for your Forester on a sticker inside the driver's side doorjamb or in your owner's manual. Compare the actual pressure to the recommended pressure. If any of your tires are underinflated, add air to them until they reach the recommended pressure. It's usually a good idea to add a little extra air, especially if the weather is cold, as tire pressure tends to decrease in colder temperatures. Once you've inflated your tires to the correct pressure, you'll need to drive your Forester for a short distance, usually at least 10-15 minutes. This allows the TPMS system to reset and recognize the new tire pressures. The TPMS light should go off after a short drive. If the TPMS light remains illuminated after inflating your tires and driving, there could be a few other issues at play. Double-check your tire pressures to make sure you didn't miss anything. Make sure you don't overinflate your tires; this can also cause the light to stay on. Check for any obvious signs of damage to your tires, such as cuts, bulges, or punctures. If you find any damage, you'll need to have your tires inspected or replaced. Check the spare tire pressure too. The spare tire also has a sensor. If you recently had your tires rotated, it may take a few miles for the system to relearn the position of each sensor. If the light still doesn't go off after a few days, you might have a problem with one of the TPMS sensors or the system itself.

Troubleshooting Common TPMS Issues

Sometimes, the TPMS light can be a bit of a mystery. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

Sensor Battery Issues

One of the most common reasons for TPMS problems is a dead battery in one of the tire pressure sensors. The batteries in these sensors have a limited lifespan, typically 5-10 years. Eventually, they will die, and the sensor will stop working. If one or more of your tires are consistently reading low pressure, even after you've inflated them, it could be a dead sensor. Unfortunately, you can't replace the battery in the sensor; you'll need to replace the entire sensor. You'll need to have a tire shop or mechanic diagnose the issue and replace the faulty sensor. The technician will use a special tool to read the sensor's signal and confirm that it's not transmitting. The sensor replacement involves removing the tire from the wheel, replacing the sensor, and then reinstalling and balancing the tire.

Sensor Failure

Besides the battery, the TPMS sensor itself can also fail. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as physical damage, exposure to extreme temperatures, or just plain old wear and tear. If a sensor fails, the TPMS system won't be able to accurately measure the tire pressure, and the warning light will illuminate. A faulty sensor will need to be replaced. Similar to a dead battery, this will require a trip to a tire shop or a mechanic. The technician will use a diagnostic tool to identify which sensor is faulty and replace it.

TPMS System Reset Issues

Sometimes, the TPMS system just needs a reset. This can happen after you've had your tires rotated, or if you've recently had new tires installed. The 2019 Subaru Forester Sport TPMS system doesn't require a manual reset procedure, it usually resets itself automatically. After inflating your tires to the correct pressure and driving for a short distance, the system should recognize the new tire pressures and the warning light should go off. If the light doesn't go off, you might need to have the system reset using a scan tool. Some tire shops and mechanics have the equipment to perform this reset.

Other Potential Issues

• Interference: External radio frequencies can sometimes interfere with the TPMS sensors. If you suspect interference, try driving your Forester in a different area to see if the light goes off. Also, try to keep electronic devices, such as your cell phone, away from the tires. *
• Incorrect Tires: Make sure you have the correct tires for your 2019 Subaru Forester Sport. Using the wrong size or type of tire can cause the TPMS system to malfunction.
• Valve Stem Damage: Occasionally, the valve stem, where the sensor is attached, can be damaged. If you notice a leak around the valve stem, it might need to be replaced.

Maintaining Your TPMS

Taking good care of your TPMS will help ensure it works properly and keeps you safe. Here are a few tips:

• Regular Tire Pressure Checks: The best thing you can do for your TPMS is to regularly check your tire pressures. Check them at least once a month, and more frequently if you live in an area with fluctuating temperatures. This will help you catch any problems early on.
• Professional Inspections: Have your TPMS system inspected by a qualified technician during your regular maintenance appointments. They can check the sensors, batteries, and overall system function.
• Sensor Replacement: Be prepared to replace your TPMS sensors when they reach the end of their lifespan. This is a normal part of vehicle maintenance.
• Tire Rotations: When you rotate your tires, make sure the technician knows that your Forester has a TPMS. The system may need to be recalibrated after the rotation.
• Tire Replacement: When you replace your tires, ensure the shop installs new sensors or transfers the existing ones carefully.

Conclusion

Well, that's a wrap, guys! Hopefully, this guide has given you a solid understanding of the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport TPMS and how to troubleshoot any issues you might encounter. Remember, a properly functioning TPMS is critical for your safety and the longevity of your tires. By regularly checking your tire pressures and staying aware of the system, you can keep your Forester rolling smoothly and safely for years to come. If you're ever in doubt or have any persistent problems, don't hesitate to take your Forester to a qualified mechanic or tire shop. They'll have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix any issues you might be experiencing. Happy driving!