There are three basic relearn methods for TPMS sensors:
• Stationary-25%: Use a activation tool with the car in “relearn” mode. New IDs can be programmed without driving the vehicle.
• OBD-36%: An activation tool in conjunction with a scan tool is required to program new sensor IDs into the vehicle. New IDs can be programmed without driving the vehicle.
• Auto Learn-39%: The vehicle can learn a single new ID and, in some cases, multiple new IDs without the use of a tool. This requires driving the car in order to turn off the light.
Other Notes:
• Less than 40% of the vehicles can reset themselves.
• Some “Auto Learns” can only do one new TPMS sensor.
• More than 60% of TPMS vehicles require an activation or activation/scan combination tool!
• There is an increasing number of vehicles that require a scan tool to complete a TPMS repair.
• Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Mercedes, Lexus, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki, Acura, Mitsubishi, Honda and Toyota are some of the makes that require a scan tool to complete a relearn.
• The market needs a tool that can function as both a scan tool and sensor activation tool.
Courtesy of Bartec USA
