Early TPMS sensors came with non-replaceable metal valves. Whenever a tire is serviced, a new service kit should be installed onto the valve to replace worn-out components (nut, grommet, cap & core). Later sensors came equipped with replaceable rubber valves. The...
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Locked OBD Ports on Chrysler & Mercedes
Some newer Chrysler & Mercedes vehicles (model 2019-) come with increased security for their on-board diagnostic system (OBD) to prevent hacking. As a result, some scan tools aren't able to communicate with the cars' system for TPMS sensor-ID registration...
TPMS Technology
TPMS is a technology that's constantly changing. The sensor hardware and part behavior of early systems was quite different than what's used today. Some of the first vehicles with TPMS had sensors that were activated magnetically. Others had parts with no sleep mode,...
Servicing TPMS Sensors
Most OEM TPMS sensors for passenger cars & light trucks are one of two types - clamp-in and snap-in. Clamp-in sensors have metal valves, snap-ins utilize rubber ones. While the sensors are attached to the valve-stem ends and stay inside the tires, the valves are...
TPMS Auto-Learning
For early-model vehicles equipped with direct TPMS systems, German makes (BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen & their subsidiaries) came equipped with automatic TPMS learning, along with Land Rover / Jaguar and Volvo. The cars learn new sensors automatically while driving,...
TPMS Tips
For new shops or those that have recently launched a TPMS program, tire-pressure sensor service can be challenging. But some basic tips can help technicians become more familiar with the technology and ease the learning curve. Always test the sensors first, to get a...
OBD-Learning on Honda & Toyota Vehicles
Registering new TPMS sensors on most Japanese vehicles requires writing the ID numbers directly to the ECU through the diagnostic port (OBD-learning). On some Honda vehicles (including Acuras) and Toyotas (incl Lexus & Scion), the TPMS warning light will stay on...
Manual Learning on Ford Vehicles
Most Ford vehicles (including Lincoln & Mercury) with direct TPMS systems learn TPMS sensors manually. Typical method for initializing learn mode is by tapping the brake pedal and turning the ignition on in a certain sequence; then a TPMS tool can be used to...
Manual Learning on GM Vehicles
Most General Motors vehicles (Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hummer, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, etc) with direct TPMS systems learn new sensors manually. Typical method for initializing learn mode is by turning the ignition on and holding the lock & unlock buttons on the...
TPMS Reset on Toyota Vehicles
Toyota/Lexus/Scion vehicles with direct TPMS also come equipped with a TPMS reset feature. A button located in the glovebox or under the steering wheel allows techs to initialize the system after installing new wheels/tires, changing tire sizes or performing tire...