TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM – WHEEL SENSOR RF NETWORK
System Overview
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in the 2011 Grand Cherokee Overland Summit operates through four direct-mounted pressure sensors housed within each wheel's valve stem. These sensors wirelessly transmit pressure data to the RF receiver module located in the vehicle body, which communicates over the CAN bus with the Body Control Module (BCM) to provide real-time tire pressure alerts and dashboard display integration.
- Sensor Type: Valve-stem integrated RF pressure transmitters
- Transmission Interval: ~60 seconds while in motion, every 12 hours when parked
- Pressure Range: Calibrated from 0–80 psi with ±1 psi accuracy
- Battery Life: 7–10 years (non-replaceable internal cell)
Functional Logic
Each sensor continuously monitors inflation pressure and ambient temperature. When the vehicle reaches rolling threshold, RF signals are activated and sent to the vehicle’s TPMS receiver. The system checks for valid pressure range and issues dashboard alerts if thresholds are exceeded or not met. Each sensor ID is learned to its wheel position through a diagnostic procedure when tires are rotated or sensors are replaced.
- Alert Trigger: ±25% deviation from baseline pressure
- Learn Mode: Sensor ID pairing via scan tool or RF wake tool
- Data Location: Accessible in the EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center)
- Temperature Monitoring: Embedded in pressure data frame, no separate readout
Common Issues
Failures typically stem from battery depletion, physical damage to the sensor stem, or corrosion around the valve seat. Cold weather may temporarily lower readings due to pressure contraction. Aftermarket wheels may interfere with RF signal propagation or fail to seat sensors properly.
- Low Battery: Sensor drops out intermittently, no repair – replacement required
- Sensor Not Detected: Incorrect ID, sensor out of range, or incompatible frequency
- Dashboard “– – –“: No signal received from specified wheel position
- Cross-Position Alert: Wheel rotation without relearn can cause false pressure location
Relearn & Service
TPMS relearn is performed via scan tool or dedicated RF sensor trigger tool (such as a Schrader S41 or Autel TS401). During relearn, the BCM pairs the detected RF signature to the wheel’s physical location. Replacement sensors must match the correct frequency (315 MHz for North American models) and support Chrysler TPMS protocols.
- Relearn Trigger: TPMS menu via dealer scan tool or handheld initiator
- Tool Required: RF trigger device or OBD-II based relearn tool
- Sensor Frequency: 315 MHz (verify on aftermarket sensors)
- Torque Spec: 35 in-lbs for metal valve nut to prevent sensor cracking
Upgrade Paths
While factory TPMS cannot be easily modified, digital multi-function pressure gauges or Bluetooth TPMS kits offer real-time monitoring with phone-based alerts and configurable thresholds. For off-road builds or trail use, TPMS delete can be performed via ECU reprogramming, though this is not legally compliant in many regions. Programming tools such as the ATEQ Quickset X allow users to transfer sensor IDs between sets of wheels without dealer intervention.
- Bluetooth TPMS: Adds external sensors with app readout and low-pressure alerts
- Quickset X: Allows DIY sensor ID swaps between seasonal or trail tire sets
- Legal Compliance: TPMS delete not recommended – subject to inspection failure
- Sensor Cloning: Enables seamless swap without triggering new relearn