A TPMS Tool is a device by which a skilled automotive repair technician can diagnose and repair vehicles that have a faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System [TPMS]. The TPMS Tool can activate and detect TPMS Sensors, communicate with the vehicle’s onboard computer system and direct the actions of the necessary service.
If the warning light is on then your first action should be to inflate your tyres. Once that possibility has been eliminated then a TPMS tool should be used to diagnose the fault. This is done by connecting the tool to vehicle OBD using a cable or BT connector. The tool should interrogate the vehicle ECU and report the applicable Diagnostic Trouble Code.
Following replacement of a broken or otherwise faulty sensor the vehicle is relearned using the TPMS tool and part of this process is to turn out the Warning light.
The make model and year of the vehicle are selected on the tool and this identifies the OE sensor which should be fitted to the vehicle. The TPMS tool can then transmit the correct Low Frequency (LF) wake up signal to the sensor and this wakes up the sensor which then acknowledges by transmitting a Radio Frequency (RF) signal.
The TPMS tool contains an RF antenna which receives the signal transmitted by the TPMS sensor. This data is normally transmitted at either 315MHz or 433MHz.The antenna and associated software and electronics should be able to differentiate between the sensor in front of the tool and other sensors in the vicinity. The tool software is used to decode the signal and extract data corresponding to the sensor ID, the pressure and temperature, battery condition and other data and display to the user as appropriate.
The tool needs to be able to communicate with the vehicle to diagnose a fault and also to relearn the new sensor ID and wheel position to the vehicle ECU and turn out the warning light.
This is normally achieved by the tool communicating through an OBD cable between the tool and the vehicle. Recent designs of tools also communicate with Bluetooth enabled OBD devices.
When a broken or faulty sensor is replaced as part of a repair then either an OE sensor or a universal programmable replacement sensor should be used. The tool needs to then write the ID and wheel position of the new sensor to the vehicle ECU which it does via the OBD.
No you should source a TPMS tool which works with all vehicles and OE sensors and also which works with all major universal programmable sensors.
It may be that your tool does not have the required coverage for the vehicle you wish to work on. Against a background where new sensors are being continually being released, this may be because the tool has not been updated with the latest vehicles or TPMS sensors, so updating the tool is your first action.
If you are programming a universal replacement sensor it may be that the sensor does not cover the make, model and year of the sensor you are replacing. You should be able to establish this by searching on the tool.
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.
Back to Basics: A Guide to TPMS Programming Tools
Tires must be kept in good condition for the safety of the vehicle owner and all drivers on the road. After all, they are the only component that connects the car to the road. An important part of keeping tires in good condition is ensuring proper tire pressure and following the manufacturer's guidelines. In addition to TPMS sensors, TPMS programming and diagnostics play an important role in your TPMS program.
Functionality TPMS Programming Tool: To install or replace programmable TPMS sensors such as Schrader's EZ-sensor ® , you will need a compatible TPMS Programming and Diagnostic Tool. Since sensor application specifications vary depending on the Make, Model, and Year of the vehicle that serviced and programmable sensors come blank, it is important to program them for your specific application prior to installation with the tool.
Before Programming a New Sensor, it is recommended to test the sensors already installed on the vehicle using the same Diagnostic Tool / TPMS Programming Tool. This helps confirm vehicle settings, avoid protocol mismatches, and determine if a tool software update is required. Manufacturer that the instrument's battery is sufficiently charged to program and accurately read the sensors.
TPMS service Tool programming and diagnostics: Now that we've covered the TPMS Tool Programming feature, it's time to talk about the content of the tool and what it means for stores. TPMS programming tools are very easy to maintain, in addition to having your tool sufficiently charged before use, you need to make sure it is updated to the latest software version.
Each TPMS tool manufacturer releases frequent software updates that provide new and improved features, content, and functionality. These updates add vehicle coverage and retraining procedures to the New tool.
In addition, the software update includes new or updated coverage information for various types of programmable sensors such as Schrader's EZ ®.
Why do you need to update the device software? Outdated software tools are one of the main causes of delays in the maintenance of the TPMS system due to the lack of new applications or retraining procedures. Keeping your tool up to date can provide faster service and avoid potential loss of sales. The manufacturer that your shop regularly receives messages from the tool manufacturer about new software updates. Schrader recommends checking for new software updates at least once a month.
According to the scenario of Lely Saad
Car service "Your Wheels" sells tire pressure sensors in Moscow. Car owners living in CJSC, SEAD, SZAO can purchase TPMS systems with turnkey installation.
The profile masters of our service at low prices will perform the installation of meters with registration of sensors in the on-board computer. This service can be used provided that the use of a device for monitoring air pressure is provided by the manufacturer of a particular modification of the car.
The TPMS system is a set of sensors with a signal receiver and a control unit designed to monitor tire temperature and pressure. Information to the driver is displayed on the dashboard or in the form of separate indicators. The design of the sensors, which are the key elements of the system, includes several components: a transmitting antenna, a battery, a tire pressure and temperature gauge.
Depending on the installation option, you can buy sensors of the following types:
Replacement of the pressure gauge is required in case of mechanical damage or exhaustion of the resource assigned by the manufacturer. Service life, as a rule, does not exceed 10 years. During intensive operation with maximum loads or under extreme conditions, this period is 1.5–2 times shorter.
Decrease in pressure in tires below the set one leads to an increase in the resistance of the wheels to rolling. As a result, tire wear and fuel consumption increase with deterioration in handling. In emergency cases, it is possible to rotate the tire on the disk or stall.
The purchase of TPMS sensors will allow you to constantly receive information about the condition of the tires in order to respond to problems in a timely manner to prevent accidents related to rubber damage.
Advantages of sensors supplied by our company:
We have a large selection of certified components from trusted manufacturers with a guarantee. All work is carried out by specialized craftsmen with experience. Before changing the sensors, a free diagnostic is carried out. Our car service offers a full range of services from purchase to on-board computer programming.
To consult a specialist before buying a TPMS system, write a message in the chat or request a call.
