Why You Need a TPMS Tool

By Scot A. Holloway. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) are crucial components that have been required on U.S. passenger vehicles for several years. The integration of this technology into vehicle maintenance practices has significantly enhanced safety, improved vehicle performance, and increased fuel efficiency as well as tire lifespan. It has also transformed how automobiles and tires are serviced, posing challenges for businesses in the tire servicing industry. Adapting to such changes is essential; therefore, you can either shy away from it—resulting in a loss of business—or embrace the challenge to take advantage of new growth opportunities.

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As you contemplate entering the world of TPMS, you might be pondering some essential questions: Is it worth my investment in tools and training? How will this impact my business? In this article, we assume you have already considered these questions and are ready to explore whether a TPMS tool is necessary for you.

Before we delve into that, let's evaluate three significant points. To begin, there are currently nearly a quarter of a billion TPMS sensors in operation, with more than a third of them being over three years old. Furthermore, many sensors are installed on wheels that are approaching a tire replacement cycle, which means these sensors are likely facing imminent battery issues. In other words, if you haven't yet, you are bound to encounter TPMS vehicles in your garage or repair shop soon.

Understanding TPMS Re-learn Procedures

Next, grasping the different types of re-learn procedures is essential. About 25% of vehicles utilize the stationary re-learn method. This method requires an activation tool and the vehicle must be put into a specific re-learn mode. A set of key cycles or button presses will help transition the car into learn mode, allowing you to use an activation tool to trigger the sensors and program the sensor IDs into the control module. The challenge here lies in knowing the various methods required to achieve the learn mode for each vehicle.

Some vehicles feature an 'auto-learn' or 'self-learn' option, where the vehicle recognizes new sensor IDs simply by driving after replacing the sensor. However, this method demands time and patience since you either have to drive the customer's vehicle until the warning light turns off or risk sending them on their way with the light still illuminated, without any guarantee that the issue is resolved.

Lastly, the process may require an OBD connection. In these scenarios, sensor IDs must be programmed directly into the TPMS control module, which is typically done using a combination activation/scan tool. This method closely resembles the procedure used during vehicle manufacturing, wherein sensor IDs are captured through activation and then connected to the OBDII port for writing them into the system. This approach is preferred due to its accuracy and efficiency.

Stay Competitive with TPMS Technology

Another critical point to address is that your competitors are already investing in this technology. Whether they are OE dealers or other automotive services, they have the tools required to properly service TPMS vehicles. Allowing your competitors to gain an edge in this emerging service landscape can be detrimental. The ability to resolve the TPMS light not only keeps your customers satisfied but also prevents them from seeking service elsewhere.

Conclusively, the answer to whether you need a TPMS tool is an unequivocal yes. Most cars and trucks equipped with TPMS at minimum require an activation tool. An increasing number of vehicles necessitate a combination tool for programming IDs into their systems. The optimal solution is to acquire a combination tool capable of handling all three re-learn scenarios using the same process. A representative from Bartec can provide additional insights into such tools.