How to Program and Reset TPMS Sensors with a Scan Tool

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) have been mandatory for passenger vehicles with pneumatic tires in the US and Europe for several years. These systems typically consist of TPMS sensors mounted in the valve stems of pneumatic tires that monitor various conditions like tire air pressure and temperature. When measured tire air pressure falls below a predetermined value, the TPMS sensor sends a wireless signal received by the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) or other vehicle systems to warn the driver before tire damage occurs.

When a sensor is replaced, rotated, or fails, the vehicle often requires a relearn or programming procedure to pair the sensor IDs with the vehicle’s ECU. This can be done via button-based manual relearn, drive cycles, or—most efficiently—through a TPMS scan tool.

Types of TPMS Relearning Methods

There are three fundamental TPMS sensor relearning methods that technicians should understand:

1.Auto Relearn: This method requires driving the vehicle for the system to automatically recognize new sensor IDs, though vehicle manufacturers may require additional reset steps before driving. This approach is commonly used for Chrysler, Fiat, Volkswagen, Porsche, Bentley, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Land Rover, and Jaguar vehicles.

2.OBD Relearn: This procedure requires using a TPMS tool to write sensor IDs directly to the vehicle's ECU. This method is frequently used for Japanese and Korean manufactured vehicles, as well as certain Chrysler, Fiat, Land Rover, and Jaguar models.

3.Stationary Relearn: New sensor IDs are relearned by the vehicle without needing to write IDs to the vehicle's ECU or drive the vehicle. This procedure should be performed with the vehicle in park and is more commonly found on General Motors, Ford, Nissan, and other cars manufactured by Chinese and Japanese companies.

Introducing the XTOOL TP150

The XTOOL TP150 is a dedicated TPMS scan tool designed for reliability and ease of use.

Key Features:

•315 MHz / 433 MHz coverage: Works with 99% of OEM and aftermarket sensors.

•Sensor activation & real-time data: Displays sensor ID, pressure, temperature, battery, frequency, OE part numbers.

•Sensor programming (via TS100 sensors):

1.Auto‑generate ID

2.Manually input ID

3.Copy by activation

4.Copy via OBD (Note: Only programs XTOOL TS100 sensors.)

•Relearn guidance: Supports OBD, stationary, and auto relearn modes with on-screen prompts.

•TPMS diagnostics: Reads/clears TPMS DTCs and disables TPMS light.

•Additional advantages:

◦4″ color screen, 3,000 mAh battery, Wi‑Fi/PC software updates

◦Stores recent vehicle operations; 2‑year warranty, lifetime updates

Step-by-Step: Using XTOOL TP150

A. Sensor Activation & Diagnosis

1.Power on TP150.

2.Choose "Check”.

3.Select vehicle make/year and sensor frequency (315/433 MHz).

4.Walk around the vehicle and point the tool near each tire’s valve stem.

5.TP150 will beep and display sensor ID, pressure, temp, battery, and location data.

B. Reading and Clearing TPMS Codes

1.Connect TP150 via the OBD‑II port.

2.Choose "Diagnose”.

3.TP150 retrieves TPMS DTCs; you can clear them and the TPMS warning light.

C. Relearn Sensors

1.Select "Relearn”.

2.Choose between OBD Relearn (preferred) or Stationary Relearn.

3.OBD Relearn will transfer the activated sensor IDs into the ECU.

4.Alternatively, in Stationary mode, you may need to manually trigger sensors and rotate the ignition, then drive briefly.

D. Programming New Sensors

If replacing a sensor:

1.Choose "Programming” on TP150.

2.Select method: Auto‑ID, Manual, Copy by Activation, or Copy by OBD.

3.TP150 programs an XTOOL TS100 sensor with correct ID.

4.Install a sensor on the wheel.

5.Relearn via OBD or Stationary to integrate it.

Troubleshooting Common TPMS Issues

Even with proper tools and procedures, technicians may encounter various TPMS-related challenges:

1."NA" Display After Activation: Some vehicles may show "NA" for temperature, battery status, or mode because the original sensors don't provide this information. About 10% of vehicles show NA for temperature, while 27% show NA for battery status, particularly General Motors (50%), Japanese vehicles (25%), and others.

2."Multiple Sensors" Error: This indicates one or more sensors are too close to the sensor you're trying to program. Ensure only one sensor is near the tool unless intentionally programming multiple sensors simultaneously.

3."Shipping Mode" Display: Some OEM sensors ship in a dormant state. For certain OE sensors like Siemens, follow specific tool instructions to enable them.

Maintenance and Best Practices

To ensure optimal TPMS tool performance and accurate sensor readings:

•Keep the XTOOL TP150 fully charged (recommend at least 2 hours for initial charge)

•Store and use within specified temperature ranges

•Avoid exposure to strong sunlight, water, or strong magnetic fields

•Clean with soft, non-abrasive cloths (avoid solvents like alcohol)

•Handle carefully to prevent drops or impacts that could damage internal components

Regularly check for firmware updates through XTOOL's official website to maintain compatibility with newer vehicle models and sensor types

Remember that proper TPMS maintenance not only keeps warning lights off but more importantly, contributes to vehicle safety, tire longevity, and optimal fuel efficiency.

Programming and resetting TPMS sensors with professional scan tools like the XTOOL TP150 has become an essential skill for modern automotive technicians. By understanding the different relearning methods, following proper procedures, and utilizing the tool's comprehensive features, professionals can efficiently service TPMS systems across various vehicle makes and models.