Don't Confuse TPMS Relearn With TPMS Programming
TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Its primary function is to monitor your car's tires and alert you when the pressure is too low to drive safely.
TPMS is a key safety feature in modern cars, designed to keep you safe and simplify tire pressure monitoring.
What is the difference between TPMS relearn and TPMS programming?
Although often confused, relearn and programming are two distinct procedures.
A technician can follow all the usual TPMS service steps, including relearning the vehicle, and still find the TPMS warning light on the dashboard remains illuminated.
Programming a sensor is crucial when working with universal or “programmable” TPMS sensors. These sensors come blank out of the box and must be programmed (also called “activated”) with the vehicle's specific make, model, and year. Without programming, the sensor won't transmit any signal to the vehicle's ECU, and the TPMS light will stay on because the system thinks the sensor is missing.
Besides programming, there is another procedure called relearning, which has a subtle but important difference.
Programming applies to a blank sensor that needs to be set up to match the vehicle's specifications, making it function just like the original sensor.
Relearning happens when tires are rotated or when a new sensor ID is introduced to the vehicle. The vehicle records the individual sensor IDs to recognize them correctly, allowing accurate tire pressure readings, especially on cars with pressure-by-location features.
Recommended Autel Tools for TPMS Programming
Autel MS906 PRO-TS
The Autel MS906 PRO-TS runs on Android OS and offers extensive OE-level diagnostics along with integrated TPMS functions. It features an 8” capacitive HD touch screen and supports long-distance wireless communication, providing efficient and comprehensive vehicle diagnostics combined with universal TPMS solutions.
Autel DS808S-TS
For those who value portability, the Autel DS808S-TS is an excellent choice. Equipped with a fast quad-core processor, it ensures swift diagnosis through a 7-inch LCD touch screen with 1024 x 600 resolution. It quickly reads and clears OEM enhanced TPMS codes for most makes and models, offering superior special functions for TPMS service with ease.
