Dead or weak battery in the rear right TPMS sensor; Failed rear right TPMS sensor; Damaged or broken sensor valve stem; Radio frequency interference or signal blockage from aftermarket accessories; Corrosion or damage to the sensor's internal components; TPMS receiver or module fault (less common); Wiring or connector issues in the sensor circuit (if wired)

DTC codes / C09xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0953

C0953Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor Rear Right

Q: What does code C0953 mean?

Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor Rear Right. C0953 indicates that the vehicle's computer has detected a fault with the tire pressure monitoring sensor (TPMS) located in the rear right tire, meaning the sensor is not reporting pressure data correctly or at all. The computer typically sets this code when the sensor's signal is missing, erratic, or out of expected range during the system's self-check.

C0953 indicates that the vehicle's computer has detected a fault with the tire pressure monitoring sensor (TPMS) located in the rear right tire, meaning the sensor is not reporting pressure data correctly or at all. The computer typically sets this code when the sensor's signal is missing, erratic, or out of expected range during the system's self-check.

SystemChassis

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

Tire pressure warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Often no symptoms besides the warning light
Incorrect or blank tire pressure reading for the rear right tire on the TPMS display
Occasional warning light that comes and goes, especially in cold weather
Other TPMS-related codes stored in the system
No noticeable change in vehicle handling or tire performance

Common causes, most likely first

Dead or weak battery in the rear right TPMS sensor
Failed rear right TPMS sensor
Damaged or broken sensor valve stem
Radio frequency interference or signal blockage from aftermarket accessories
Corrosion or damage to the sensor's internal components
TPMS receiver or module fault (less common)
Wiring or connector issues in the sensor circuit (if wired)

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify tire pressure with a quality gauge and adjust to the specified placard pressure
Perform a TPMS relearn procedure as outlined in the owner's manual or service information
Use a TPMS scan tool to read sensor data and confirm the rear right sensor's status and battery life
Inspect the rear right sensor and valve stem for physical damage or corrosion
Test the sensor's signal with a TPMS activation tool to confirm it transmits
Replace the faulty rear right TPMS sensor and perform a relearn
If the sensor is good, check the TPMS receiver/module and wiring for faults

What Most Techs Miss on C0953

A weak sensor battery often causes intermittent operation before total failure, so the code may set only in cold weather when battery voltage drops.
Aftermarket wheel accessories such as metal valve caps or wheel covers can block the radio signal from the sensor, triggering C0953 without a faulty sensor.
Some vehicles require a specific TPMS relearn procedure after tire rotation or sensor replacement, and skipping it can cause a false C0953.
The code can be set by a mismatched or incorrect sensor part number installed previously, even if the sensor appears to function.
A failing TPMS receiver or antenna can cause multiple sensor codes, but C0953 alone usually points to the sensor itself.

Can I keep driving with C0953?

It is safe to continue driving with C0953 because the tire pressure warning is an informational alert and does not affect vehicle operation, but you should check the actual tire pressure manually and address the sensor soon to maintain TPMS functionality.

Tools that help

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