I have a sensor that is giving me fits. I have done the sensor re-learn thing, but the problem keeps recurring.
Everytime I take it out I get a flat tire warning. However, if I hold a magnet by the sensor for a few seconds the problem disappears. Also, if I drive for a half hour or so, or go 75-80mph, it will sometimes go away.
I'd like to remedy the problem if possible without having to replace the sensor.
Is this possible?
Also, do these things use batteries or something, and sould I get them all serviced (replaced) when the tires get replaced, probably this spring?
TIA.

 

sounds like the battery in the sensor is going bad.

 

They are battery driven but the batteries can not be easily replaced. Perhaps someone can tell us what the typical life is on them so you can make a decision re replacement.

 

May sound silly but did you check the tire with a gage it might be flat

 

are the sensors and batteries covered under warrenty?

 

Yes I did. I keep a gauge in the car, and like I said I can magnetize the sensor and it will start working. I just don't want to get used to it not working and mistakenly assume the tire's not flat and wind up driving on a flat tire.
I'm now driving with a magnet in the console, and am wondering if there are any remedies short of having the wheel taken apart.

 

The sensor needs replacing....no other remedies...
As stated in other replies, the batteries last 5-7 years and will start acting up sooner when the temps drop.

 

My first question would be......are you running stock wheels and tires???

The reason I ask is very important. If you are running aftermarket tires, that could be your problem. The compound on some tires can be enough to diminish the signal being sent out by the sensors. If the signal isnt strong enough, it wont reach the receiver.

Which tire is giving you the most trouble?? My guess would be RIGHT FRONT??? That is the one that usually experiences the most trouble because it is the furthest from the the receiver. The receiver is in the left rear somewhere.

The reason I asked everything above and have the opinion that I do is because I experience the same random problem that you described but it is ALWAYS my right front. I have HRE wheels and Michelin Pilot Sports wheels. With my HRE's, I cant mount the sensors in the conventional way and have them band clamped to the wheel itself. With the brand new sensor installed like this it weakens the signal just enough that it loses the reading periodically. I went through the same thing you described and replaced a sensor that I thought was bad only to have it still happen. Now its just something I have to live with now and then.

Good luck.