I have a 2008 with the OEM 17 in. wheels. One of my TPMS sensors started acting up and then went out all together. While doing the sensor relearn, one wheel would not register and allow the the system to be relearned. I switched 2 tires to identify which one was bad.
After pricing the replacement for just one sensor at one retailer the price was close to $200. So i purchased a Shrader sensor from Auto Zone for $50 and got a price from Walmart for tire unmounting and remounting for $10.
Now I would have to install the sensor myself. It is the snap in type valve stem withn the sensor. Is there a special install tool, such as an in./lb torque wrench that is needed for the torx screw, and the box states to program sensor before installing. Can this programming be done by the relearn method described in the owner's manual.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

 

I have replaced a lot of the tpm sensors. I have never torque the mounting bolt I just tighten them.

The easiest way I have found is withe the tire on the tire machine I just break the bead on the outside of the rim.

Then replace the sensor with the tire machine keeping the tire out of the way the inflate the tire.

Then just do the relearn and your done. I don't know why you would relearn before install unless you want to see if the new sensor works before hand.

 

Thanks Lucky!
Everything looked straightforward to me, I just wondered what "special tool" was required. The box stated "program before installation". I assumed this was for generic installations perhaps. I'm going to get this done tomorrow so I don't have to see the DIC warning anymore.

 

I don't have TPMS in my 2007 LS but was just wondering, if the sensor is outside of the tire and rim assembly, how do you programme it before installation?? It would not read any pressure? Or am I just missing something here, like install in rim and tire inflate to pressure than programme before installing on axle?

 

I don't have the darned things either. But I think the idea is to just get it linked to the vehicle first, then install it. That way one makes sure it works - with some of the issues that a few of the after market ones have had it might be a good idea. Maybe? :)

 

Well. Not sure how you could program by the owners manual method before it's installed.
That method involves letting air out of the tires. Won't work that way unless the sensor is in the tire.
Just go to the Walmart that you're going to use and ask them if it can be done with their TPMS relearn tool.

Just make sure the new sensor is close to the corner of the car you're trying to learn it to. Has to be near the stationary pickup sensor on the car I think.

 

I think the only way to program it not installed is with a tpm tool.

I have one and I can activate a sensor with the tool. When I relearn my tires I use the tool so I don't have to let air out.

 

Thanks for the replies. I'll check it out this evening when I go.