It is estimated that 50 percent of all drivers ignore or delay servicing their Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Many realize that TPMS repairs are expensive and can easily wipe-out their monthly budget (YES, THAT'S TRUE!). Today, you will learn DIY tips to save money on TPMS repairs. You will also learn how to PROGRAM TPMS sensors without any special tools.
Good news!
The TREAD Act of 2007 requires manufacturers to "build-in" all vehicles assessible TPMS service procedures - like reset buttons, ignition cycles, or driving sequences to avoid expensive shop repairs and service tools.
That's right!
STOP paying shops to PROGRAM and RESET (activate) your TPMS sensors and Do-It-Yourself (DIY)!
What Should I Do If the TMPS Light Comes On? Simple! Check your tire pressure FIRST! If the light comes on while driving and remains steady, this indicates that your tire pressure is 25 percent below recommended inflation pressure. This is critically low and you should inspect your tires using a tire pressure gauge. This may be evident by bulging tire sidewalls.
Tire pressure can quickly drop below TPMS threshold if the tire is punctured or significant changes occurs with the weather. Cold weather or excessively hot weather can cause a sudden drop or increase in tire air pressures. Watch the video below as ChrisFix explains how temperature affect TPMS operation...
Direct TPMS (most common): Uses radio-frequency (RF) sensors inside each wheel (315 MHz or 433 MHz) - they are battery powered, valve-stem mounted sensors that transmit real-time data to the ECM.
Indirect TPMS (older models): Uses wheel speed sensors (ABS-based) to detect pressure loss.
What's Inside a Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor? (TPMS) by Cars Simplified - Click on Photo to Play YouTube Video
To save money and bypass expensive TPMS tools, DIYers should avoid aftermarket and universal sensors that require PROGRAMMING. These sensors must be matched with the correct IDs and s
et to the proper frequency before being installed in the wheel. They require a scan tool that can copy information from the original sensor so that a clone can be made.General TPMS Reset Steps
- Inflate tires to placard pressure (listed on the driver’s door jamb)
- Locate the TPMS reset button (often under the steering wheel, in the glovebox, or via infotainment menus)
- Follow ignition sequences (e.g., turning the key to "ON" without starting the engine).
- Drive the vehicle (some systems require 10-20 minutes at 25+ mph to recalibrate).
1. Toyota/Lexus
Toyota Tacoma (2016–Present):
Turn ignition to "ON," press and hold the TPMS reset button under the steering wheel until the light blinks three times. Drive above 25 mph for 10 minutes.
Lexus ES (2019–Present):
Use the multi-information display to navigate to
"Vehicle Settings > TPMS > Set Pressure." Hold "OK"
to initialize, then drive for 10-20 minutes.
2. Ford
Ford EcoSport:
Inflate tires, turn ignition to "ON," and
press the hazard light button six times. The horn will chirp, confirming reset
mode. Drive at 20+ mph for 2 minutes.
3. Honda
Honda City/CR-V:
With tires inflated, go to "Vehicle
Settings" on the infotainment screen. Select "TPMS Calibration"
and follow prompts. Drive normally for 30 minutes.
4. BMW
BMW 3 Series (2019–Present):
Indirect TPMS models reset via iDrive: Navigate to
"Vehicle Status > Tire Pressure Monitor > Reset." Drive 5-10
miles to recalibrate.
5. Hyundai/Kia
Hyundai Venue/Kia Sonet:
Press the TPMS reset button (located near the
steering column) for 3-5 seconds until the warning light blinks. Drive for 20
minutes above 30 mph.
6. General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC)
Chevrolet Silverado:
Turn ignition to "ON," press the
lock/unlock buttons on the key fob simultaneously until the horn chirps.
Release, then press "Relearn" in the driver’s menu. Activate each
sensor by lowering tire pressure until the horn honks.
7. Nissan
Nissan Magnite:
Indirect TPMS systems reset by driving at 16-50 mph
for 10 minutes. Ensure tires are properly inflated beforehand.
8. Subaru
Subaru Outback:
Turn ignition to "ON," press the TPMS
reset button (under the dash) until the light flashes three times. Drive for
30+ minutes at 40–65 mph.
9. Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Ram TPMS Reset Procedures
Automatic Relearn for Most Models - Many Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles equipped with the Schrader TPMS sensor (common in 2010–2014 models) automatically reprogram after driving for 10+ minutes above 15 mph.
How to install a tpms yourself! by UncleMarks DIY Automotive Fix it Channel - Click Here to Play YouTube Video
Sensor replacement: New OEM sensors self-register during driving. Aftermarket sensors may require a TPMS tool for activation.
Comments: My 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Sport Utility 4-Door 3.6L 3604CC 220 Cu. In. V6 FLEX DOHC Naturally Aspirated uses the 433 MHz sensor. A local tire shop broke my sensor during a tire replacement and installed a 315 MHz sensor that I was told would work! NO IT DIDN'T WORK! All post-2015 JGC continue using 433 MHz sensors with no reported frequency changes.
Battery Life on TPMS sensors forJGC generally last 5-10 years or more, however vehicle owners should be proactive and replace all sensors if TPMS warnings presist.
Always use TPMS valve stem caps to prevent moisture and dirt from entering valve stems which could damage sensors. These caps are elongated and contains O-ring seals. Regular valve stem caps should not be used as substitutes.
10. Watch this YouTube video: How to Change / Install a Tire without Breaking the Tire TPMS Pressure Sensor. No Damage by Weekend Hobby Mechanic - Click Here
* - Some Info from ChatGPT
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