TPMS Relearn vs TPMS Programming

Even seasoned service professionals often have questions about TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) service. A frequently asked question is, What is the difference between TPMS relearn and TPMS programming? Here's the explanation:

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What's a TPMS Relearn?

Most people have probably never heard of a TPMS 'relearn' until their auto service pro tells them they have to pay for one. A relearn refers to the process of electronically pairing a new TPMS sensor to the vehicle's Tire Pressure Monitoring System. A TPMS relearn is always required when a new TPMS sensor or sensors are installed. Without pairing, or 'relearning,' the sensor doesn't 'talk' to the Tire Pressure Monitoring System and the system simply can't work.

Programming a TPMS sensor is an additional step in TPMS service.

TPMS vehicle relearn and TPMS sensor programming are distinct procedures. Aftermarket TPMS sensors labeled as programmable, universal, or clone-able require programming with the correct protocol and application information specific to the vehicle before installation. Once successfully programmed, the TPMS sensors must then be relearned by the vehicle.

TPMS relearn procedures vary by automaker. Some vehicles automatically relearn when driven, while others require a TPMS scan tool to complete the process. For many Asian makes and models, this may also involve connecting a tool to the OBDII port. Regardless of the procedure, the concept is the same: the vehicle’s TPMS receiver learns the sensors' unique ID numbers. In more advanced systems, the TPMS receiver also identifies the sensors' locations (right front, left front, right rear, left rear, and spare).

So, if a sensor fails or is damaged and needs replacement, don't be surprised if you're charged for both the new sensor and the relearn procedure.

To program these sensors, technicians may need to invest in specialized tools, training, and software. Additionally, these programming tools will need periodic updates to ensure compatibility with the latest vehicles and applications.

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Multi-application Sensors Come Pre-Loaded with Tpms Protocols from the Factory

Multi-application TPMS sensors, like REDI-Sensor, arrive with the necessary protocols pre-installed, eliminating the need for shop programming. REDI-Sensor is ready to work with multiple vehicles' TPMS right out of the box, saving time on protocol uploads and reducing the risk of programming errors. This streamlines TPMS service, making it faster and more profitable.

Vehicle Relearn is Always a Required TPMS Service Step

Whether it's an OE sensor, a programmable sensor, or a multi-application sensor, every aftermarket TPMS sensor must be relearned to the vehicle. This relearn procedure not only connects the sensor to the vehicle's TPMS but also ensures that the system is functioning correctly. 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.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Universal TPMS Programming Tool.

Assisting with the TPMS Relearn Process  

Resetting your TPMS can range from very simple to quite challenging, depending on your car model.

After installing new tires, the first step is to inflate them to the correct pressure. You can usually find the recommended pressure (in psi) on a sticker located on the driver’s side door panel. Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure that the tires are inflated to the specified pressure.

If your vehicle has an easy-to-use system, you can reset the TPMS by pressing the reset button, typically found under the steering column or in the menu system. It's best to press this button while the vehicle is stationary and the ignition is off. Once you start driving, the TPMS will recalibrate and adjust to the new pressure settings.

Using a TPMS Relearn Tool

A TPMS relearn tool is useful for teaching your vehicle the correct tire pressure, tire locations, and sensor identification numbers. This tool is essential if you've replaced a valve sensor.

To use the TPMS relearn tool, place it near each tire valve. Some tools may also require a connection to the onboard diagnostic (OBD) port to start the process. The videos below demonstrate how to use the tool effectively.

Important Note: Not all TPMS relearn tools are compatible with every vehicle. Before purchasing, make sure the tool is compatible with your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model. If you own vehicles from different manufacturers, you might need to buy multiple tools.

TPMS Programming

When choosing a TPMS sensor, consider whether to buy a sensor specifically made for your vehicle or opt for a universal programmable TPMS. Since sensor specifications can vary by the year, make, and model, universal sensors need to be programmed with the correct settings for your vehicle—similar to a software update.

Programmable, multi-application TPMS sensors offer greater flexibility because the same sensor can be used across various vehicles. Many shops prefer to stock programmable sensors, as this allows them to cover a wide range of vehicles with just a few sensors, rather than needing hundreds of vehicle-specific ones.

You might also prefer a programmable sensor, especially if you plan to use the same set of snow tires on different vehicles. With a programmable TPMS sensor, the tire and its TPMS can be easily swapped between vehicles.

Are you interested in learning more about TPMS Diagnostic And Service Tool? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

I don't know the brand of sensors that are installed currently, I'd have to do some looking. Normally anything tire related is handled by Discount Tire, but I've been having issues with TPMS lately and I'd like to deal with it myself.

I don't have an expensive enough scan tool with TPMS capabilities, so I'd like to buy something stand alone and cheap. I'm not working in a shop, so this will be something I used maybe once a year.

I will look at those Autel options, but if I remember they're beyond my price range and I'd probably have to buy and have Autel sensors installed if they can't interact with whatever's installed.

Anyway... If it's not financially worth my time, I will just have Discount Tire take care of it when I have free time.

I don't know the brand of sensors that are installed currently, I'd have to do some looking. Normally anything tire related is handled by Discount Tire, but I've been having issues with TPMS lately and I'd like to deal with it myself.

I don't have an expensive enough scan tool with TPMS capabilities, so I'd like to buy something stand alone and cheap. I'm not working in a shop, so this will be something I used maybe once a year.

I will look at those Autel options, but if I remember they're beyond my price range and I'd probably have to buy and have Autel sensors installed if they can't interact with whatever's installed.

Anyway... If it's not financially worth my time, I will just have Discount Tire take care of it when I have free time.

Most likely you will be replacing at least one sensor anyways if you are having tpms issues. They go bad, there usually isn't much to diagnose besides using the tool to scan all sensors and find the bad one. Then clone a new one or program a new one to vehicle. That's about all the tpms tool does anyway. If sensors are good the tool has some limited diagnostic abilities but it's almost always just replacing a sensor and learning it. Do you have the ability to break the bead and replace the sensor? It's a pain without a tire machine but can be done. It's why I ended up buying a tire machine. I bought the autel and replaced a few sensors and decided to buy a tire machine, then a balancer. All paid for themselves in short time once people found out I had them and could do sensors. But if you are just looking to diagnose a bad sensor I would think most tools in any price range would be able to read a sensor to see if it's transmitting.

Had a guy with aftermarket rims that had no tpms sensors so he had discount tire put 4 sensors in when he had them put tires on. About 1 year later I replaced 3 of them because they were dead. They were some generic brand that were junk. He said they charged 65 bucks a piece for them. I charge 80 for an autel if all I'm doing is replacing the sensor and sensors cost me about 25 a piece. If I have the tire off for whatever reason already I will give them a break because I'm not removing and breaking down a tire just for the sensor.