Can you relearn TPMS without tool?
Don't confuse TPMS relearn with sensor programming.
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.
Here are the facts:
Vehicle relearn is a standard TPMS service step
Every replacement TPMS sensor must be "relearned" to the vehicle following the prescribed OE relearn procedure, regardless of whether it is an OE or aftermarket sensor. The relearn procedure ensures not only that the replacement TPMS sensor works properly, but also that the vehicle's complete TPMS system functions properly as well. Except for some models that may be relearned to the vehicle via a driving procedure, a TPMS scan tool is required to complete the vehicle relearn process.
Sensor programming is an extra TPMS service step
Additional reading:
What is the difference between programmable and non-programmable TPMS sensors?
foxwell
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.
REDI-Sensor comes pre-programmed
Every replacement TPMS sensor must be "relearned" to the vehicle following the prescribed OE relearn procedure, regardless of whether it is an OE or aftermarket sensor. The relearn procedure ensures not only that the replacement TPMS sensor works properly, but also that the vehicle's complete TPMS system functions properly as well. Except for some models that may be relearned to the vehicle via a driving procedure, a TPMS scan tool is required to complete the vehicle relearn process.
How to program TPMS sensors without a tool
I came across a post in a Focus forum on how to program TMPS sensors without using a TPMS programming tool. The one thing to add is if you are doing a new set and the old set is near the car it won't work. So you may need to drive to a parking lot or gas station if you are programming a second set. Use this procedure if you're installing winter wheels/tires that have sensors already installed, or even if you are just doing a tire rotation. Not sure if this has been posted before. I tried searching but didn't see it posted anywhere. No need to go and buy the TPMS programming tool!
- Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended psi. Mine is 40psi.
- Turn ignition to the on position. If you have a push button start, push the start button without pressing the brake pedal.
- Push the hazard light button 6 times. The horn should honk and you should see "Train left front tire" in the LCD display between the tach and speedo.
- Release air pressure in the front left tire until you hear the horn honk. The LCD display should now read "Train right front tire".
- Release air pressure in the right front tire until you hear the horn honk.
- Repeat for the right rear tire, and then the left rear tire.
- You should now see "Training Complete" in the LCD display.
- Fill your tires back up to the recommended pressure.
Enjoy!
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