Don't confuse TPMS relearn with sensor programming.

Servicing TPMS-equipped vehicles profitably can be a challenge without the proper knowledge, parts, and tools. Despite numerous training programs and technical articles, there is still much confusion about TPMS, particularly between vehicle relearn and sensor programming. These two are entirely different procedures. The confusion arises due to aftermarket TPMS sensors that come as "programmable," "universal," or "cloneable" units. These sensors need to be programmed with the correct vehicle-specific protocol/application before installation into the tire, and then must be relearned to the vehicle. Unfortunately, some shops mistakenly skip the crucial relearn step, believing the sensor programming alone is sufficient. This misconception can result in service callbacks and customer complaints.

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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. This applies whether the sensor is OE or aftermarket. The relearn process ensures that the replacement sensor works correctly, and that the vehicle’s entire TPMS system functions properly. Some models may be relearned via a driving procedure, but a TPMS scan tool is generally required to complete the relearn process.

Sensor programming is an additional TPMS service step

Certain aftermarket sensors need special programming to match the vehicle’s application specifications before installation and relearn. These 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, for proper functioning of both the sensor and the vehicle's TPMS system. A TPMS scan tool is usually required, except for some models that can be relearned via driving.

Like tires, the wide array of TPMS sensors in the automotive aftermarket gives you plenty of choices. However, limited inventory space means choosing what sensors to stock requires some research.

“Go with what makes the most sense for your particular business,” says Scot Holloway, CEO of Bartec USA LLC.

Bartec, a manufacturer of TPMS sensor tools, categorizes aftermarket sensors into three groups:

1. Direct replacement sensors: These can be obtained from OE and aftermarket providers and typically don’t require any programming or configuring with a TPMS tool.
2. Multi-protocol sensors: These come pre-loaded with multiple sensor protocols in a single sensor body, but a TPMS tool is still needed for the "relearn" process.

No configuring is required, but a TPMS tool is needed to do the "re-learn."

3. Programmable sensors: Although they represent fewer SKUs, programmable sensors can cover a wider range of vehicles. These sensors come blank or require configuration before use.

"It's a complicated TPMS world out there, and with the proliferation of aftermarket sensor replacements and processes, installers are getting confused," notes Holloway. “For example, an installer might not always know if the sensor they are using is programmable, so they don’t program it. If the sensor is blank, the tool and the vehicle won’t recognize it, leading to a phone call for support.”

Here is a list of some of the latest TPMS sensors available in the market:

31 Inc.

31 Inc. offers two models of Smart Sensor Pro+ TPMS sensors: 315 MHz and 433 MHz. Their programmable universal sensors come with two valve options: bolt-in and snap-in. These sensors service 90% of vehicle applications, covering 95% of domestic manufacturers and 85% of imports.

AirTech TPMS Inc.

AirTech’s 200 Series sensors include a wireless configurable sensor for rapid installations and a programmable sensor. These high-coverage systems work with the A200 or Ateq VT55/56 tools.

Continental Automotive Systems Inc.

The VDO REDI-Sensor Rubber Snap-in TPMS sensor is ready to install straight out of the box and is pre-programmed for many domestic and Asian vehicles. It follows OE vehicle relearn procedures and works with all major TPMS scan tools.

Denso Products and Services Americas Inc.

Denso’s First Time Fit TPMS sensors don’t require programming or cloning before installation. They fit right out of the box and follow OE relearn procedures. These sensors cover 70% of the market, with a 10-year battery life and low return rate.

Dill Air Controls Products LLC

Dill's 7001HP-R REDI-Sensor has a snap-in VS-90 rubber stem. It also offers an optional chrome clamp-in valve. With four part numbers covering 92% of the market, the 7001HP and 7001HP-R are the same sensors with different stems.

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John Dow Industries Inc.

John Dow Industries’ DVT sensors work with rubber snap-in or metal clamp-in valve stems, providing coverage for over 95% of domestic, Asian, and European vehicles. They help dealers reduce inventory by replacing multiple OEM sensors with one versatile sensor.

JS Products Inc.

JS Products' Steelman Select Sensors provide over 90% direct TPMS vehicle coverage. These sensors are programmed via ATEQ or Bartec tools and have four valve stem options, including a patented rubber snap-in valve stem.

Regitar USA Inc.

Regitar’s 433 MHz and 315 MHz TPMS versions cover over 90% of vehicle applications. They are compatible with major scanning tools and require no additional sensor programming equipment.

Revolution Supply Co.

Revolution Supply’s two lines of Oro-Tek pre-programmed OE replacement sensors offer high coverage. Their iORO multi-protocol line covers more than 90% of vehicles with just three sensors. Their sensors are installation-ready without programming or cloning.

Schrader International Inc.

Schrader’s new "single SKU" EZ-sensor is a fully programmable TPMS sensor that covers a majority of TPMS-fitted vehicles in North America. It combines multiple frequencies into one part number and supports evolving OE technologies.

Standard Motor Products

Standard Motor Products offer over 40,000 parts, including OE-match TPMS sensors. Their sensors cover 98% of vehicles on the road and come pre-programmed for immediate installation. They offer a TechSmart TPMS Relearn & Scan Tool Kit for comprehensive coverage.

For more details, kindly visit Universal TPMS Programming Tool.