diff --git a/selfdrive/sensord/tests/test_sensord.py b/selfdrive/sensord/tests/test_sensord.py
index 84582518f..837fe8883 100755
--- a/selfdrive/sensord/tests/test_sensord.py
+++ b/selfdrive/sensord/tests/test_sensord.py
@@ -121,6 +121,10 @@ class TestSensord(unittest.TestCase):
     cls.events = read_sensor_events(5)
     managed_processes["sensord"].stop()
 
+  def tearDown(self):
+    # interrupt check might leave sensord running
+    managed_processes["sensord"].stop()
+
   def test_sensors_present(self):
     # verify correct sensors configuration