Three best practices for TPMS sensor replacement

Three Best Practices for TPMS Sensor Replacement

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Replacing Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors offers two primary choices: OEM and aftermarket. The wide range of available sensors can be overwhelming, making it crucial for technicians to select the optimal technology suited for their shop's needs.

Before deciding on the right TPMS sensors, it's essential to invest in a reliable TPMS scan tool. Tools like the VT56 can assist in determining appropriate sensor brands for replacements. Since vehicle coverage largely depends on TPMS sensor technology, shops often stock multiple sensor brands. Advanced TPMS tools like VT56 or VT36 can read, activate, and reset TPMS systems while also programming various sensor brands. By utilizing such tools, technicians can effectively manage and stock their sensor inventory following these three best practices.

1. Identify the TPMS System Type

TPMS systems fall into two categories: direct and indirect. Direct TPMS systems use in-wheel sensors to relay pressure data in real-time to the vehicle's ECU, commonly found in Asian, domestic, and European vehicles. In contrast, indirect TPMS systems use ABS to monitor wheel speed for pressure readings, typical in some Asian and European models.

Even though indirect systems don’t include in-wheel sensors, a relearn procedure is necessary to deactivate the TPMS light. TPMS scan tools can help identify the system type and provide step-by-step instructions to guide technicians through the reset process.

2. Select the Suitable TPMS Sensor Type

Given the variety of TPMS sensors in the aftermarket, technicians must be familiar with their options to make informed choices.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM):

OEM sensors are direct replacements with pre-configured IDs, meaning no prior configuration is needed before installation.

Programmable or Configurable (Aftermarket):

These universal TPMS sensors require programming or cloning from an OEM or other aftermarket sensors using a TPMS tool.

• Examples include Alligator Sens.it, Standard Qwik, NAPA Qwik, and Schrader EZ-sensor®, among others.

Multi-protocol (Aftermarket):

Pre-loaded with several sensor protocols, multi-protocol sensors act as part-for-part replacements, eliminating the need for prior configuration.

• VDO REDI-Sensor

One-to-One (Aftermarket):

Direct replacements for OE sensors, one-to-one sensors come with a preloaded sensor protocol and don’t require pre-use configuration.

• Examples include Dill OE, Standard OE, NAPA OE-Design, and Orange Direct Fit.

3. Ensure Correct TPMS Sensor Frequency

TPMS sensors operate at either 315MHz or 433MHz frequencies. While 433MHz is common in Europe, most other regions use 315MHz. Using the incorrect frequency can cause programming or relearn failures. Tools like VT31, VT36, and VT56 can verify sensor frequencies for proper replacements.

Technicians can identify the required sensor frequency using the following methods:

• Activating the sensor will display frequency information on the tool.
• The "program sensor" function matches sensor frequency based on the vehicle’s Make, Model, and Year.

By confirming the frequency, technicians can invest in the correct sensor brands. Note that models from the same automaker can use different frequencies; for instance, the Nissan Rogue uses 315MHz while later models might use 433MHz.

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