C1709 on 2007-2014 Nissan Sentra: TPMS 'No Data' Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2007-2014 Nissan SENTRA

For this generation of Nissan Sentra, a notable and documented issue is that aftermarket electronic devices, such as cell phone chargers, dash cams, or even wireless phone charging docks, can cause radio frequency (RF) interference. This RF interference can disrupt the 315 MHz signal from the TPMS sensors to the vehicle's receiver, triggering codes like C1709 even if the sensor itself is functional. Nissan issued a Technical Service Bulletin (NTB13088A) to make technicians aware of this possibility before they proceed with unnecessary sensor replacements, noting the issue is not covered by warranty.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: This year range covers two Nissan Sentra generations: the B16 (2007-2012) and the B17 (2013-2014). The TPMS functions are nearly identical for both, but the specific part number for the TPMS sensor may differ. Always verify the part number for your specific model year. For example, some B17 models may use a rubber valve stem sensor while earlier models used a metal clamp-in style; installing the wrong type will prevent it from being programmed.

Symptoms You May Notice

• TPMS warning light flashes for approximately one minute and then stays on continuously.
• The vehicle's information display (if equipped) may show dashes ('--') for the rear-left tire pressure reading.
• "TPMS Error See Owner's Manual" message may appear on the instrument cluster display.

Most Likely Causes

1. Dead TPMS Sensor Battery 🔴 High Probability TPMS sensors use a non-replaceable internal battery with a finite lifespan, typically 5-10 years. Vehicles in the 2007-2014 range are now at an age where original sensor batteries are commonly failing. A weak battery can cause intermittent failures before failing completely.
   How to confirm: A professional TPMS diagnostic tool can be used to try and 'wake up' or read the sensor. If the tool cannot get a response from the sensor, or if it reports a low battery life (e.g., under 15 months remaining out of a typical 120-month lifespan), the battery is the culprit.
   Typical fix: Replace the rear-left TPMS sensor. The new sensor's ID must be registered to the vehicle's BCM using a TPMS programming tool. It is often recommended to replace all four sensors at once if they are original, especially if new tires are being mounted, to save on future labor costs.
   Est. part cost: $40-$120
2. Radio Frequency (RF) Interference 🟡 Medium Probability As noted in Nissan TSB NTB13088A, devices like phone chargers, GPS units, or dash cams plugged into the car's power outlets can emit RF noise that blocks the 315 MHz signal from the TPMS sensors. Forum users across many brands, including Nissan, have confirmed that cheap or poorly shielded USB chargers are a common source of this interference.
   How to confirm: Unplug all aftermarket electronic devices from the vehicle's power sockets. Clear the codes (or cycle the ignition) and drive the vehicle to see if the TPMS light and code C1709 return. If they do not, one of the devices was the cause. The issue may only appear after extended driving (e.g., 15-20 minutes on the highway).
   Typical fix: Remove or replace the interfering electronic device. Using a high-quality charger or one with a ferrite core on its power cord can prevent the issue. This repair is not covered by warranty.
   Est. part cost: $0
3. Damaged TPMS Sensor ⚪ Low Probability Sensors can be physically damaged during tire installation or by hitting a large pothole. The valve stem can also corrode and break, particularly the retaining nut on metal-stem sensors in regions with heavy road salt use, which was the subject of a recall on some related Nissan models.
   How to confirm: Visual inspection of the sensor after dismounting the tire from the wheel. The sensor may have visible cracks or damage. A corroded valve stem nut may also be visible from the outside.
   Typical fix: Replace the damaged TPMS sensor and register the new one to the vehicle.
   Est. part cost: $40-$120

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Body Control Module (BCM): While rare, the BCM is the central computer that receives and interprets the TPMS signals. If it fails, it may not be able to communicate with one or more sensors. This is usually a last resort after sensors and interference have been ruled out. A recall for some 2007-2008 models involved the BCM being replaced and the TPMS system being inadvertently left off, requiring reactivation by a dealer. On later models, if the BCM is replaced, it requires a specific TPMS configuration procedure using the CONSULT scan tool before it can register sensor IDs.
• Wiring Harness Issue: A break or short in the wiring between the TPMS receiver and the BCM could prevent the signal from being processed, but this is uncommon for an isolated code like C1709. A common location for BCM wiring is behind the glove box.
• Faulty TPMS Receiver: The dedicated receiver that picks up the signals from all four sensors can fail, but this would typically cause codes for multiple or all sensors at once, not just C1709. A Reddit user noted this as a rare possibility.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Verify that the TPMS warning light flashes for about a minute before staying on solid, which indicates a system fault rather than low pressure.
🎬 See this quick guide on resetting the TPMS warning light
2. Unplug all aftermarket devices (phone chargers, dash cams, GPS, etc.) from all power outlets.
3. Clear the DTCs (if possible) or cycle the ignition off and on. Drive the vehicle for several minutes, including at highway speeds, to see if the light and code return. If they don't, one of the devices was causing RF interference.
4. If the code returns, use a TPMS activation tool at the rear-left wheel to attempt to read the sensor's ID, pressure, temperature, and battery status.
5. If the tool cannot get a signal from the sensor, or reports a 'LOW' or 'FAIL' battery status, the sensor has failed and must be replaced.
6. If the tool can read the sensor, but the code persists in the BCM, the problem may lie with the vehicle's TPMS receiver, the BCM, or a wiring issue. This step often requires a more advanced diagnostic scan tool.
7. Before replacement, verify the correct OEM part number for your vehicle's specific year and trim to ensure compatibility.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor (OEM #40700-3AN1B) — This is the most common failure point. The internal battery is not serviceable, so the entire unit must be replaced when the battery dies. This part number supersedes 40700-3AN1A.
  Trusted brands: Schrader (OEM supplier), Continental, Denso, Huf
  OEM price range: $70-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $35-$80

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• C1708 — This code is for the front-left sensor. Seeing it with C1709 could indicate a systemic issue like RF interference or a failing BCM affecting multiple sensors.
• C1710 — This code is for the rear-right sensor. When multiple TPMS codes appear at once, it points away from a single bad sensor and towards a broader problem like interference.
• C1711 — This code is for the front-right sensor. The TSB from Nissan groups all four 'No Data' codes (C1708, C1709, C1710, C1711) together as they share common causes.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• NTB13088A: Addresses 'No Data' TPMS codes (C1708, C1709, C1710, C1711) and identifies radio frequency interference from aftermarket electronics as a potential cause.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Nissan Technical Service Bulletin NTB13088A specifically calls out that radio frequency interference from accessories like cell phone chargers can cause a 'No Data' condition, leading to codes C1708, C1709, C1710, and C1711. This should be checked before replacing parts.
• A recall was issued for some 2007-2008 models where a BCM replacement at a dealership may have resulted in the TPMS system being accidentally deactivated.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Manual TPMS Relearn Tire Pressures — expected: Front-Left: 34-36 PSI, Front-Right: 31-33 PSI, Rear-Right: 29-30 PSI, Rear-Left: 26-27 PSI.. Failure: The system will not enter relearn mode or will not successfully register the sensors if the pressures are not set to these distinct values.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Nissan CONSULT-III / CONSULT-III plus: ID REGIST — This function, found under 'AIR PRESSURE MONITOR' > 'WORK SUPPORT', is used to register new TPMS sensor IDs to the BCM after a sensor replacement or tire rotation.
• Nissan CONSULT-III plus: Manual Configuration (for TPMS) — This function is mandatory after replacing the Body Control Module (BCM). If this configuration is not performed, the BCM will not be able to learn or register any TPMS sensor IDs, rendering the system inoperative.
• Paperclip / Jumper Wire: Grounding the TPMS Interface Plug — This is a DIY method to force the vehicle into TPMS relearn mode without a scan tool. After setting specific tire pressures, the single-pin connector near the OBD-II port is grounded 6 times to initiate the process. The TPMS light will begin to flash slowly when the mode is active.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• TPMS Interface Plug — Near the OBD-II connector, under the driver's side dashboard. It is a small, single-wire white connector, often wrapped in black electrical tape from the factory.. This connector provides the interface for manually initiating the TPMS ID registration procedure. Grounding this wire is the key step in the no-tools reset method.
• Body Control Module (BCM) — For the B17 generation (2013-2014), the BCM is located behind the glove box area, often mounted to the right of the steering column. For the B16 (2007-2012), it is also behind the dash on the passenger side.. The BCM is the control unit that receives signals from the TPMS receiver and stores the sensor IDs. All diagnostic codes, including C1709, are stored in the BCM. A faulty BCM or poor connection at its connectors (like M19, M20) can cause this code.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube user 'gforever' / AllSentra.com forum (2007 Nissan Sentra (B16)) — TPMS warning light was on.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The user did not report trying other fixes first; they went straight to the manual relearn procedure.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user successfully performed the manual TPMS relearn procedure. This involved setting the tires to specific, distinct pressures (FL: 34, FR: 31, RR: 29, RL: 26 PSI), locating the white TPMS interface plug near the OBD-II port, and using a paperclip to ground the pin multiple times until the TPMS light started flashing, indicating it was in learn mode. After a short drive, the light turned off, confirming the sensors were re-registered.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2013-2014 (B17 generation): The BCM used in the B17 generation (e.g., part number 284B1-3SG0A) is known to require a specific TPMS configuration via CONSULT-III plus if it is ever replaced. Failure to perform this step will prevent the TPMS from working at all.
• 2007-2012 (B16 generation): These earlier models prominently feature the single-wire TPMS interface plug near the OBD-II port for manual relearn procedures. While later models may have it, it is most commonly documented and used on the B16 chassis.