When installing new TPMS sensors, a relearn should be performed unless the original sensors were cloned. The learning process should also be done when rotating tires.

Most vehicle manufacturers use the same procedure across all their models, but there are some exceptions. As a general rule, domestic vehicles learn manually, except Chrysler which typically has automatic learning. Asian models utilize OBD-learning, and German vehicles have auto-learn. A TPMS relearn tool is required except for the models that learn automatically.

More information on relearns for Ford & General Motors vehicles can be found here and here, for Japanese makes (Toyota / Honda) please click here, and Suzuki can be found here. For German models, usually it’s necessary to enable learn mode before driving by using the steering wheel buttons, dash display or iDrive. For automatic learning, it’s important to park the vehicle for 20 minutes before driving.

For shops new to TPMS, following a few best practices (program sensors before installation and perform a relearn after the install) will help to reduce the number of issues and keep downtime to a minimum.