What is the difference between programmable and non-programmable TPMS sensors?

There are multiple different types of replacement TPMS sensors and educating yourself about these technologies will help you to find the best fit for your business!

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TPMS replacement sensors are generally categorized as direct-fit, programmable, and pre-programmed sensors.

• A direct-fit sensor, OE or OE replacement, is loaded with one specific vehicle protocol and works only on a specific MMY selection.

• A programmable sensor, like EZ-sensor®, comes blank and can be programmed to work on any MMY covered by the sensor manufacturer using a TPMS programming tool with up-to-date software.

• A Pre-programmed sensor, like EZ-sensor® GO, is pre-loaded with a selection of protocols and can work as a direct replacement sensor for a wide range of vehicles.

In this article, we will dive deeper into understanding the benefits of pre-programmed TPMS sensors.

What Makes a Pre-programmed TPMS Sensor Stand Out?
Fastest speed of service
A pre-programmed sensor hosts multiple vehicle protocols. These protocols are already pre-loaded on the sensor and work as a direct replacement without needing a TPMS tool for programming or activation! Thus, offering the fastest servicing capabilities, as sensor installation is the main time spent for the service provider. Please note that vehicle-specific relearn procedures must be performed after sensor installation.
Inventory optimization 
Unlike direct-fit sensors that mainly work on single-vehicle applications, pre-programmed sensors have the ability to cover multiple vehicles. This can significantly reduce the number of SKUs stocked in your shop while ensuring you have the right part when you need it.

What is EZ-sensor® GO and how does it work?
EZ-sensor® GO is Schrader’s hybrid solution that combines the best of both worlds—programmable and pre-programmed sensors, making the product a single part number TPMS solution for your workshop! The sensors come pre-programmed for the most popular German brands (click to view full coverage list) and at the same time can be programmed to any other vehicle selection covered by the EZ-sensor® family of products. The sensor is available with a high-speed enclosure and can be installed on vehicles with a top speed of 300 km/h. Multiple valve stem colors are making it a perfect fit for customized rims!

How to service EZ-sensor® GO:

• Check if the vehicle Make, Model and Year requires programming. If sensor programming is not necessary, follow the sensor installation guide found in the sensor box and perform a vehicle-specific relearn procedure.

• If the sensor requires programming, program by using a compatible TPMS tool, that is fully updated with the latest software. This ensures you have the latest vehicle coverage. Install the sensor and perform a relearn procedure.

  You will get efficient and thoughtful service from foxwell.

  Additional reading:
  Can you relearn TPMS without tool?
  The Ultimate Guide to TPMS Quickset Tool

Click to view training resources:

EZ-sensor® compatible programming tools
Sensor Mounting Instructions
EZ-sensor® Coverage list

Even among experienced service pros, there are still a lot of questions about TPMS service. One of the most common questions we hear is, "What is the difference between TPMS relearn and TPMS programming." Here’s the answer:

TPMS sensor programming is an extra TPMS service step

TPMS vehicle relearn and TPMS sensor programming are completely different procedures. Aftermarket TPMS sensors that come as "programmable," "universal," or "clone-able" must be programmed with the proper protocol/application information for the specific vehicle before they can be installed. Once they have been successfully programmed, they must then be relearned to the vehicle.

In order to be able to program programmable sensors, technicians may need to invest in specialized tools, training, and software. In addition, these programming tools will periodically need to be updated to provide the latest application and software in order to work with the newest vehicles.

Multi-application sensors have their TPMS protocols loaded at the factory

Multi-application TPMS sensors, such as REDI-Sensor, do not require the protocols to be loaded in the shop. REDI-Sensor comes out of the box with the TPMS protocols needed to function with multiple vehicles’ TPMS. REDI-Sensor eliminates the time spent on uploading protocols. This eliminates the possibility of programming errors to help make TPMS service faster and more profitable.

Vehicle relearn is always a required TPMS service step

Regardless of whether it is an OE sensor, a programmable sensor, or a multi-application sensor, every aftermarket TPMS sensor must be "relearned" to the vehicle. The relearn procedure not only connects the sensor to the vehicle TPM System, it also provides a check that verifies the vehicle’s TPM System is functioning properly. With the exception of some Chrysler and Mazda models that may be relearned to the vehicle through a driving procedure, a TPMS scan tool is required to complete the vehicle relearn procedure.

For more Universal TPMS Programming Tool information, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.