Failed or failing TPMS sensor at position 1; Dead sensor battery (typical lifespan 5–10 years); Damaged sensor stem or housing from road debris or curb impact; Corrosion or poor electrical connection at the sensor or harness; Radio frequency interference or signal blockage from aftermarket accessories; Incorrect sensor installed or sensor not properly registered to the vehicle; TPMS receiver module or wiring fault (less common)

DTC codes / C09xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0901

C0901TPMS Sensor 1 Position Performance

Q: What does code C0901 mean?

TPMS Sensor 1 Position Performance. C0901 indicates that the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) has detected a performance problem with the sensor assigned to position 1, typically the front left wheel. The computer is not seeing the expected pressure readings or signal behavior from that sensor, so it flags the sensor's position as faulty.

C0901 indicates that the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) has detected a performance problem with the sensor assigned to position 1, typically the front left wheel. The computer is not seeing the expected pressure readings or signal behavior from that sensor, so it flags the sensor's position as faulty.

SystemChassis

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

TPMS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Often no symptoms besides the warning light
Incorrect or missing tire pressure reading for one wheel on the TPMS display
Occasional false low-pressure warnings for the affected tire
The warning light may flash for about a minute then stay on
Other driver-assist systems that rely on wheel speed may be unaffected

Common causes, most likely first

Failed or failing TPMS sensor at position 1
Dead sensor battery (typical lifespan 5–10 years)
Damaged sensor stem or housing from road debris or curb impact
Corrosion or poor electrical connection at the sensor or harness
Radio frequency interference or signal blockage from aftermarket accessories
Incorrect sensor installed or sensor not properly registered to the vehicle
TPMS receiver module or wiring fault (less common)

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify tire pressures with a accurate gauge and adjust to placard specifications
Perform a TPMS reset or relearn procedure according to the manufacturer's instructions
Use a TPMS scan tool to read sensor IDs, pressures, and battery status for all wheels
Inspect the sensor at position 1 for physical damage, corrosion, or loose mounting
Test the sensor signal with a TPMS trigger tool to confirm it transmits
Replace the faulty sensor and perform a relearn procedure
If the sensor is good, check wiring and connectors between the sensor and the TPMS module

What the TPMS light doesn't tell you

A dead sensor battery is the most common cause of this code, and it often fails without any prior warning or gradual loss of signal.
Aftermarket wheels, valve stem caps, or electronic accessories can interfere with the radio signal and trigger position performance codes even when the sensor is healthy.
Some vehicles require a specific relearn procedure after tire rotation or sensor replacement, and skipping it can set C0901 for the wrong position.
The code does not always mean the sensor is dead; a weak signal from a partially depleted battery or a poor ground connection can cause intermittent performance faults.
Always check for related codes in the ABS or body control modules, as shared wheel speed or communication bus issues can mimic a TPMS sensor fault.

Can I keep driving with C0901?

It is safe to continue driving with C0901 because the TPMS warning is informational and does not affect vehicle handling or braking. However, you should manually check tire pressures regularly until the fault is repaired, since the system may not warn you of a genuine low tire.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.