How to Replace a TPMS Sensor?

General
1

Hi Pals,

I need to replace the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor on my vehicle and am seeking some guidance. Could someone explain:

  1. Replacement Process – What are the steps for replacing a TPMS sensor?
  2. Tools and Parts – What tools and parts are necessary?
  3. Common Issues – Are there common issues or tips to watch out for?

Any detailed instructions or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thanks…

2

Replacing a TPMS sensor involves removing the tire, swapping the sensor, and often reprogramming it. You’ll need specific tools and the right sensor for your car. Consider professional help if unsure.

3

Assemble the equipment and supplies you’ll need. Raise the car, take off the wheel, and find the sensor. In order to remove the sensor from the valve stem, use an appropriate wrench. Replace the old sensor with the new one when installing. Tightly fasten the sensor. Reinstall the wheel, then lower the car. To have the new sensor synchronized with the car’s system, go through a relearn process.

4

Unfortunately not a cheap fix as you would like it to be. The sensors are attached to the valve stems. You have a couple of options. First off you don’t have to dismount the tire to get to them just break the head on the front of the rim (starting on the opposite side of the sensor so you don’t risk breaking it, then again it’s already old but you don’t want to have to go fishing inside the tire for it.). Next is where you need to choose what to do next. You can buy new OEM sensors, which if I were you I would do all 4 at the same time as the battery’s last flag where from 5-10 years years so if one’s gone out you might as well replace them all. The downside to this youll need to have them programmed to the tpms system to recognize them, either at the dealer or a tire shop equipped with a computer that can do OEM sensors. Option two you can buy aftermarket sensors. Going this route the process is the same but with aftermarket sensors they need to get the serial number off your original sensor and clone them so the tpms computer will recognize them. So your still paying for programming. Options 3 if you really wanna save money and it’ll cost you your time is take your OEM sensors and pry the glue off them and put new batteries in there and then seal them up again. They’re encased in glue you can buy cr2032 batteries with tabs already attached to them and solder them in your original sensors. It’s more labor intensive but saves you from having to program them. I did this on one of my cars and it was a pita. It wasn’t hard but I wouldn’t do it again as it took me several hours doing all that and sealing them all up again. Those are basically your options. Well there’s option 4 screw it and drive with the light on.