Servicing TPMS equipped vehicles profitably can be a challenge without the knowledge, the right parts and the right tools. In spite of all the training programs and technical articles on the subject, there is still a lot of misunderstanding about TPMS, and the confusion between vehicle relearn and sensor programming tops the list.
Vehicle relearn and sensor programming are completely different procedures.
The issue stems from the availability of aftermarket TPMS sensors that come as “programmable”, “universal” or “cloneable” sensor units. These sensors must be programmed with the proper protocol/application information for the vehicle before they can be installed in the tire, and then must be relearned to the vehicle. Unfortunately, some shops overlook the necessary relearn step mistakenly believing the sensor programming did the trick. This misconception can lead to service comebacks and customer complaints.
Vehicle relearn is a standard TPMS service step
Every TPMS sensor must be “relearned” to the vehicle following the prescribed OE relearn procedure after replacement, regardless of whether it is genuine OE or aftermarket. The relearn procedure is mandatory to ensure that not only the replacement TPMS sensor works properly, but also the vehicle’s complete TPMS system functions properly as well. With the exception of some Chrysler and Mazda models that may be relearned to the vehicle via a driving procedure, a TPMS scan tool is required to complete the vehicle relearn procedure.
Sensor programming is an extra TPMS service step
Some aftermarket sensors require special programming to meet the vehicle’s application specifications prior to installation and relearn. These may include “programmable”, “universal” or “cloneable” sensors. In addition to this extra step, technicians may also need to invest in additional specialized tools, training and software to complete the process.
And even if a shop has the specialized programming tool, it may need to be updated to provide the latest application or software changes in order to meet the specifications of a particular vehicle.
Multi-application sensors are pre-programmed
Multi-application TPMS sensors, such as the REDI-Sensor Sensor, do not require this extra programming step because they are already loaded with the proper programming needed to function with the vehicle’s TPMS. These multi-application sensors can help reduce lost service time, eliminate unnecessary expenses and training and cut down on customer complaints and comebacks.
Ready to use out of the box
REDI-Sensor is a multi-application TPMS sensor works exactly like the OE sensor. It is pre-programmed and ready for the vehicle relearn procedure as soon as the technician takes it out of the box and installs it in the tire. REDI-Sensor follows the standard OE vehicle relearn procedures, and works with all major TPMS scan tools, including those from ATEQ, Bartec, OTC / SPX, K-Tool (T.
I.P.S.) and Snap-on.
Furthermore, REDI-Sensor covers over 85% of all vehicles in North America with only three sensor part numbers and replaces over 140 OE sensors.
Video from REDI-Sensor
The best way to achieve the best possible fuel economy and keep your vehicle performing flawlessly on the road is to make sure your tires are in tip-top shape. And doing that is as easy as keeping all four tires at just the right pressure. But when was the last time you checked your tires? Most of today’s vehicles make it super easy with a built-in tire pressure management system (TPMS), which automatically checks tires for the right pressure and alerts you if they need attention. But every so often, you still need to do the work yourself and make sure your tires – and your TPMS – are all good to go.
You can do this easily with a TMPS tool, which resets tire pressure sensors, so your readings are always accurate. Check out our picks for the best TPMS tools.
Best Overall
Autel MaxiTPMS New Generation Diagnostic & Service Tool
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Summary
This TPMS tool gives you direct access to your vehicle’s engine control unit and allows you to clear sensors and diagnostic trouble codes.
Best Value
Autel MaxiTPMS TS401
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Summary
A handheld TPMS tool that will work with 98 percent of cars and trucks by scanning the TPMS sensor’s ID, then inputting the IDs directly into the device.
Honorable Mention
JDIAG 2IN1 TPMS Relearn Tool
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Summary
This easy-to-use, economical TPMS tool works fast with only the touch of a button and can be used on a wide variety of vehicles, including most GM and Ford cars and trucks.
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise.
We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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Maintaining general car safety makes you more appealing to your insurance company.These are the tools you use to get all kinds of information about your tires. These tools display information such as the ID, temperature, and pressure. They also display the battery level. These TPMS tools will help to keep your tires in top condition so you can drive in any weather.
Programming tools can program tire pressure monitor sensors before you install them in your car. They are very helpful when you have just installed new sensors in your tires or when you’ve changed the tires. These tools are usually confused with relearning tools.
They also have a higher price tag.
Relearning tools are used to locate new sensors. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) needs to know the location of the sensors if you have new ones installed or if you’ve installed new tires. Relearning tools also activate the sensors if they are in sleep mode.
Autel is a well-known outfit associated with aftermarket automotive diagnostic tools. Since 2004, the company has focused on creating TPMS tools that serve drivers with different budgets and preferences. The MaxiTPMS Complete TPMS Tool, one of its best products, is a premium tool that is compatible with European and Asian cars.
ATEQ has a long history of providing automotive solutions. It began its operations in 1975. It has a noticeable presence in North America with offices in Canada and Livonia, Mich. The ATEQ TPMS Reset Trigger Activation Tool is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality.
JDiag was established in 2015 and manufactures affordable and professional aftermarket automotive diagnostic tools and accessories. It has lived up to our expectations by releasing one great product after another. Its innovation and dedication to high standards can be seen in its JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool.
For as little as $10 to $20, you can find TPMS tools that’ll automatically detect your pressure monitor. They’re simple tools in this price range, and they’re often model- or automaker-specific. If you step up to the $25 to $50 price range, you’ll find more smart TPMS tools plus features like LCD screens. And for $100 and up, you’ll find the tools that offer the most capability, compatibility with more automakers, and extra bells and whistles.
Tool and sensor compatibility is a major factor to consider when buying a TPMS tool.
Some tools are meant to be used with particular car models, while others can be used with a wide selection of vehicles. If you want a TPMS tool you can use on multiple vehicles, get one that’s compatible with American, European, and Asian cars. Most brands fall within these categories.
Tire sensors are either external or internal. Their placement will dictate the tool you get to monitor tire pressure. Tools that work with external sensors tend to be more simplistic in their design since their functioning system is older. However, TPMS tools that read internal sensors may have more futuristic features since they have to read through the tire wall.
The functions of a TPMS tool guide its design and price. While some TPMS tools are basically monitor-only systems, some have more than four functions. They can check the tire pressure, relearn sensors, reset codes, and program sensors. They display this data in real time on an LCD screen.
Battery powered, solar powered, or rechargeable? The power source is an important feature when choosing a TPMS tool. While some tools have nine-volt batteries that last a long time, there are newer products that have rechargeable batteries or use solar energy. It is also important to know the status of the battery, so you know when it’s time to replace it.
It should also give you all the readings you want. A TPMS tool that’s ergonomically designed ensures your hand stays comfortable, while one with a great button layout makes your work easy. To identify the best TPMS tools available, we searched online for products at different price points and various features. We looked at each device's compatibility with different TPMS sensors, gauging how compatible each was with modern vehicles and choosing those that offered the most versatility. We also considered how extensive any given TPMS tool’s features and ability to read different codes was, opting to highlight those that could diagnose more problems for added convenience.
While many TPMS tools are universal, some are designed to only work on a specific manufacturer’s vehicles, i.e., GM, Ford, or Toyota.This tool identifies the types of sensors in your tires and the information that the sensors contain. This information is necessary for the sensors to work correctly after you have performed maintenance such as a tire replacement or rotation. You use the tool to perform the proper relearn procedures to reset the system.
No, only newer cars and trucks.
Manufacturers began to install TPMS in vehicles in the 1980s on a few luxury cars. Rollover problems on some vehicles in the late 1990s prompted laws mandating TPMS on U.S. vehicles. As of 2012, all vehicles sold in the U.S. and EU must have a TPMS.
A: It depends on the kind of sensors your vehicle is equipped with. Many are reprogrammable, and all you need to reprogram them is one of the TPMS tools on our list above.
A: If your OBD2 scanner does come with the ability to read TPMS codes and reset its sensors, then you’ll be able to do so without a specialized TPMS tool. However, if your OBD2 scanner isn’t able to do so, you will need a separate device.
The hand-held Autel MaxiTPMS TS401 is our choice for best value because it works on 98 percent of today’s cars and trucks.
SENSOR AID PRO sensor programmer - has a list of vehicles produced for the European and American market:
The AID sensor is a diagnostic device that allows:
TPMS Pressure Sensor Programming
Using this tool, most TPMS pressure sensors can be diagnosed and programmed, regardless of manufacturer and sensor condition. SENSOR AID scans sensors using a wireless antenna mounted on the sides. It works with the same frequencies as the sensors i.e. 433 MHz or 315 MHz.
SENSOR AID device functions and their brief description of operation:
Diagnostic sensor
It scans the sensor for information such as: ID, current pressure, frequency at which the sensor operates, tire temperature and battery status.
(Not all original sensors show battery status and tire temperature)
New sensor - copy and clone
New sensor - manual copy
The device also has the ability to duplicate original sensors by manually entering an ID number on the sensor body.
New sensor programming
During this process, it bypasses the ID copy procedure and after selecting the correct vehicle model, sends the corresponding ID to the Uni sensor.
Wireless Sensor Upgrade - Copy Original Sensor ID
This feature allows you to copy the original sensor ID to the SENSOR AID and load it into the UNI sensor.
Wireless sensor modification - changing the identification number of a newly created sensor.
The function allows you to change the identification number in UNI Sensors.
After scanning the sensor, we can change the ID number to update it.
Wireless sensor modification - sensor modification including right/left wheel
This function allows you to change the position of the sensor relative to the right or left wheel.
Write sensor ID related data to computer
Allows you to save scanned sensor ID to your computer.
(Only possible if the 4-wheel scan option is enabled)
Saving to a computer is supported by an application that saves data in a text file (*.
txt) format.
Using the OBDII module to read and write sensor IDs
Thanks to the OBDII module, you can connect the device to the computer in the car. The device allows you to scan all the sensors located in the vehicle, and then allows you to read or store the identification number in the ECU.
The device has a number of options thanks to which we can customize the displayed information according to our needs.
When connected to a computer, the device can download updates from the website that enhance the functionality of the device and update the software.
The device is equipped with a rechargeable battery that allows you to work in wireless mode for a long time. After discharge, the device can be connected.
Warranty 60 months
Made in Taiwan
This is a new version of the well-known Sensor AID programmer to support TPMS pressure sensors, which has been redesigned and equipped with a number of new features. The device has basic functions also available in earlier versions, such as:
Service for about 98% of vehicles with direct TPMS system (both European and American markets),
OEM sensor diagnostics and sensor replacement capability,
Program new sensors as clone or sensor with new ID number,
Save and read sensor ID numbers from vehicle memory using OBDII module,
Completely free vehicle database updates.
The new version has a number of additional features that make the TPMS system easier to use:
built-in database of sensory training procedures,
camera that allows you to take pictures and read barcodes and QR,
tire tread depth gauge,
the ability to do wireless updates via WiFi.
The device comes with an OBDII module that can be connected to the device wirelessly or traditionally with a cable, as well as a magnet needed to excite several types of OEM sensors. The device has a brand new ergonomic, fully dust-proof body, which is comfortable and provides convenient operation.
The device is equipped with a database of procedures for supported vehicles. Procedures are presented clearly and legibly, making it easy to adapt new sensors to the vehicle without having to look up procedures from external sources. The list of procedures is updated along with the list of cars, which makes it completely free.
The AID 4.0 sensor, like the previous version, comes with free software updates that are released at least 4 times a year. Thanks to this, we have access to the latest automatic databases and - in the case of Sensor AID 4.0 - sensor adaptation procedures. For this version of the device, updates can be made without connecting the device to a computer, all you need is a WiFi connection.
The new version of the device is equipped with a camera, thanks to which we can remove the sensor and tires and then save them in the device. In addition, thanks to the camera, we can read barcodes or QR codes, such as vehicle VINs, in order to fill in customer data faster or even vehicle registration numbers or customer NIPs. Thanks to the LED diode, photos and readings will be taken even in difficult, dark workshop conditions.
With this built-in device that can be used to measure the tread depth, we can check the tire condition and this data will be stored in the device's memory and assigned to a specific customer in the built-in database.
The tread measurement function allows you to measure and save 4 wheels in 3 tire zones.
The AID 4.0 sensor has an advanced customer base feature compared to the previous version. Using the sensor diagnostics function, camera and tread gauge, we can compile comprehensive documentation of the condition of the customer's wheels and sensors. This data can be stored on a device that can store up to 100 clients and then you can easily transfer it to your computer. The new functionality allows you to create a file containing a range of data: date read, customer data, vehicle VIN, vehicle registration number, sensor status, tread status, and photographs of, for example, the vehicle and wheels.
Warranty 60 months.
Made in Taiwan
MaxiTPMS® TS508 is a new generation TPMS diagnostic and service tool specially designed to activate all known TPMS sensors, read TPMS sensor status, check TPMS system status, program MX-sensors and re-learn TPMS.
With the "Quick Mode" and "Advanced Mode" options, you can save time and energy by choosing the most appropriate way to shut down TPMS. TS508K, TPMS starter kit with one tool and 60 probes, may be your right choice to get to know AUTEL TPMS lines.
TS508 is a new generation TPMS tool that offers the ability to select one of two service modes on the main screen to provide faster and smarter TPMS recovery. Depending on the type of TPMS service required, the choice of basic fast mode or full advanced mode will reduce recovery time.
TPMS Quick Mode: Basic TPMS functions for quick TPMS sensor test and MX-Sensors programming;
Advanced TPMS Mode: Complete TPMS functionality for sensor check, TPMS diagnostics, MX-Sensor software, and sensor position relearning.
Read ECU sensor ID;
Check that the sensor ID matches the ECU ID;
Read fault codes from ECU and erase fault codes;
View detailed description of fault codes;
Copy on activation;
Copy by manual entry;
Auto Create 1-16;
Copy from database;
High precision air valve, to prevent air leakage
Replaceable anodized aluminum valve stem to resist corrosion
Sturdy stem pivot design allows 0-35 degree angle adjustment to fit all types of wheels
Quick and easy mounting on any wheels
Operating temperature: -40°C to +125°C
Storage temperature: -40°C to +150°C
Operating humidity: 90%
Operating frequency : 433 MHz
Pressure control range: 100 to 900 kPa
Pressure measurement accuracy: ±10 kPa
Temperature reading range: -40°C to +125°C
Temperature reading accuracy: ±5°C
G-sensor reading accuracy: ±15%
Transmission power: 5-8 dBm
Battery: 3.
0 V
Warranty 24 months.
Made in China.
Ad is not active, item or service is discontinued
450 €
€ 450.00
On request
Offer price Added 22.07.2022 00:00
Tallinn
TPMS Programmer + scanner + tire sensor. 98% Fill: With the latest and most comprehensive coverage of 98% OE sensors on the market, and up to 90% of North American, European and Asian vehicles, it is almost suitable for all types of wheels on the road.
Easy to use: Maximum sensor signal strength makes it easy to program sensors wirelessly, even when they have already been installed on the wheel. In addition, the unique design of the press release valve makes changing the hand probe much easier.
Solid and Durable: Equipped with a car battery, a replaceable rod aluminum valve that can withstand cold, hot and resistant corrosion, and a high-precision air valve to prevent air leakage, this sensor provides excellent stability and efficiency.
Features:
2 in 1 with OE-Level design, solid and functional
This tire pressure monitoring sensor (for TPMS) was made to combine 315MHz and 433MHz frequency applications in one sensor, greatly simplifying users' inventory management and reduces investment as well as loss of sales. And it is built to perform like OE sensors in terms of signal, durability and functionality as follows:
1. Autel's unique MX-sensor patented press release valve design allows rubber and metal sensor valves to be freely interchanged by hand without requiring a sensor tool fixing head.
2. It is equipped with a car battery to meet severe weather conditions with a long service life of more than 5 years.
3. High precision air valve can prevent air leakage. High quality housing withstands cold, hot and resistant corrosion.
4. Replacement Stem The aluminum valve is anodized for corrosion resistance.
5. The device can be assembled quickly to minimize installation time.
6.
