How to Transfer TPMS Sensors to New Wheels – A DIY Step-by-Step Guide

Transfer TPMS Sensors to New Wheels

Perhaps it’s been a while since you’re having silent thoughts about how to transfer TPMS sensors to new wheels.

Here, we aim to help you solve all of that as we guide you through the article on how to transfer TPMS sensors to new wheels.

However, TPMS are recent in the world of automobiles. Like many accessories that often come with our Vehicle lately, they help us have a better experience dealing with our cars and improve our safety.

But, unfortunately, not so many people understand the need for these sensors and hardly realize they have them on their vehicles or notice the indicators to read them correctly.

Everything You Need to Know about TPMS

Tire Pressure

What is TPMS?

Firstly, we must understand that TPMS come from each first letter of the words; Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

The TPMS is an electronic device that uses some physical quantities to measure the pressure gauge of tires and communicate them to the driver or whoever observes It, through computer systems shown to us by indicators on our dashboard, and warning or assuring us about the tire’s safety levels.

What does it do?

Having known what TPMS is, now let’s find out what it does.

When the pressure falls below the manufacturer’s recommended level, which is often a 25% drop, the TPMS acts by sending signals received by the computer systems on the car.

The warnings indicate on the car’s dashboard.

How TPMS works

Before discussing how TPMS works, we must understand that basically, there are two types of TPMS, and they are; indirect & direct TPMS.

These two TPMS use different quantities to warn us about the tire pressure. So now, let start with the indirect TPMS and how it works:

Indirect TPMS

This TPMS works alongside the Antilock braking System (ABS) wheel Speed Sensors. It uses the principle of variation in motions due to pressure. Tires’ pressures are communicated to the driver after interpreting and indicating what’s happening with the tires.

According to the pressure on different wheels, they will rotate differently if the pressures are not uniform. On the other hand, there will be a smooth ride if they have equal pressures as tires rotate uniformly at the same revolution per minute (RPM). The indirect TPMS act to monitor the motion on each tire, reading the differences as they move.

Once it detects a tire that moves slower than the rest, it passes this information. The computer collects the information, which interprets and warns the driver with an indicator light on the dashboard. In addition, it can tell which tires have a low-pressure gauge. This is done by the program, which allows it to identify and differentiate one tire from another. The indirect TPMS are installed outside the tires.

Direct TPMS

This type of TPMS is installed inside each tire where they read the pressure directly. They come with batteries that power them to monitor the fall of pressure levels within the tires. When the pressure falls below the manufacturer’s recommended 25% level, warning signals are sent and received by the car’s computer system, which interprets them.

The indicator is lightened up on the dashboard, warning the driver about the pressure gauge. In addition, each tire has its unique code or ID, which is programmed on its sensor. This individual ID helps to quickly identify which tire needs to be checked and fixed accordingly.

Easy Steps of How to Transfer TPMS Sensors to New Wheels

Do I need to replace TPMS when replacing tires?

No, you don’t need to replace TPMS when replacing tires unless they are bad and unserviceable. But when the TPMS are in good condition, all you do is transfer them to the new tires.

Can these sensors be switched to new wheels?

Yes, TPMS can be changed to new wheels. But before deciding to change your TPMS sensors from one wheel to another, there are things you should consider. They include;

  1. Seals: if your TPMS sensor is the direct type, you have to check to ensure the seals are good to go on their new mount. Any little gap could cause air losses from the tire and always cause the tire pressure to go low.
  2. The bolts & nuts: while trying to change your TPMS sensors from one wheel to another, you must check to see if there is no rust on bolts and nuts. Rusts may cause the tightening to go hard if not lubricated. At the same time, be cautious so that lubricating substances do not sip into the sensor.
  3. Valve: after removing the TPMS from the old tire, check the valve if they are good to go on the new tires and replace them if not ok.

DIY options and materials needed for transfer 

You can always see an expert help you transfer TPMS or save yourself time and money by transferring it.

Whichever option you may come up with, we will show you how to transfer the TPMS sensor from one wheel to another.

But before we offer these steps on how to transfer TPMS, you need to know the tools required for this task. They include;

  • Pliers; this will help you with the grip and pull
  • Cutters; this will help you make cuts as necessary
  • A ranch; this holds the sockets.
  • 6mm and 11mm sockets; they help us lose and get our nuts tightened
  • Soap; the soaps serve as lubricants to quickly get the tires to slide as they move to close the gaps.
  • Scrap lumbering (long & short); the longer and shorter piece works together. Next, the lumbering is placed in a position that allows pressing on the tire’s side to break the seal.
    When the tires are pressed down on a side, it gives room for the wheel to be detached from the rims and provides access to the TPMS sensor attached to the valve.
  • Air compressor; this is needed to get air back into the tires after transferring the TPMS to new wheels.

Step-by-Step Guide

Easy Steps of How to Transfer TPMS Sensors to New Wheels

  • Take the valve cap off to release the air pressure inside the tire.
  • Break the seal by pressing down on the tires aside.
  • Fit the socket in the ranch and lose the nuts
  • Pull out the nuts and washers, and gently pull out the TPMS
  • Bring them to the new wheels and mount them just how you pulled them from the previous wheel
  • Use the washers and nut to guide it back to place
  • Before tightening, use a pin to hold firm at a position to be sure they don’t move while tightening
  • Use the socket to tight the TPMS firm to position
  • Take out the pin
  • Use your soap to rub around the rim and make the tire slid in a little
  • Use the compressor to fill air back in and seal the tires.

How to program the transferred TPMs if needed

Sometimes, our TPMS may need to reprogram after transferring them from one wheel to another.

But deciding on programming your TPMS sensors, you need to get TPMS programming and diagnostic tool which comes with its software updated.

The updates help make programming tasks more manageable. The steps to take if the need arises include;

  • Get the ID code/Number of the TPMS sensor; after transferring the TMPS scan using the diagnostic tool to get the sensor ID number. You have to get the ID number correctly. Programming the wrong number may render the sensor invalid as the TPMS won’t detect it.
  • Program; after collecting its ID number, start programming by selecting the car model and year in which the Vehicle was manufactured on the diagnostic tool. Several options will come up but choose the copy sensor option. Also, two other choices will follow. However, the one you choose is the one that carries your Input ID.
  • Fitting the TPMS into the programming tool; before proceeding, be sure to have your TPMS sensor on the right frequency. Now, fit the sensor into the programming tool using pins to fit it inside it. Adjust until it clips with the pin, firmly help inside the hole. Once this is done, the TPMS sensor is automatically programmed using the ID number and at the right frequency.

How much does it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor?

It cost some money transferring the TPMS sensor from one wheel to another. The estimated cost to transfer TPMS sensors is between $223 and $237. The prices of labor are between $53 and $67.

The cost of parts is approximately $70. However, in the vehicle model, tax fees are not included in the prices above. Even location affects costs too.

MOBILETRON Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor

Important Notes

With accidents associated with low air pressures in cars, the USA passed the 2000 TREAD Act compulsory for cars manufactured after 2006 to be fitted with the TPMS.

And different countries across the world have adopted additional legislation to make the use of TPMS mandatory on all new vehicles of the 21st century.

Fitting TPMS to monitor our tire pressure does not just take off the burden of checking our tires the traditional way, which often is inaccurate. Instead, it helps us manage our fuel economy better and saves us a good amount of money to factor into other important things.

The TPMS warn us early to act as soon as possible, which gives our tires a longer life span and reduces the risk of accidents resulting from low-pressure tires.

Do’s

  • Make sure you keep to the manufacturer’s instructions on TPMS maintenance.
  • If you want to replace the TPMS battery, be sure to replace them with a suitable battery like the one removed.
  • When pulling out the TPMS from one wheel to another, handle with caution.
  • Ensure your indicator light on the dashboard is in good condition to warn you according to the program it receives from the sensors.
  • Get the proper diagnostic tool for programming the sensor.

Don’t

  • Do not attempt to transfer the sensor from wheel to wheel without studying the manufacturer’s guide.
  • Don’t allow the TPMS to drop to the ground when moving from one wheel to another.
  • Don’t allow the batteries to stay longer than 3-5 years
  • When lubricating the wheels, do not let the lubricant, soap, or water sip into the TPMS

Properly transferring your TPMS sensors to new wheels is essential to maintaining accurate tire pressure monitoring. But it’s not just about transferring the sensors themselves – selecting the right tire size for your vehicle is also crucial to ensure the system functions correctly. In our article on the comparison of 245 and 255 tires, we delve into the nuances of tire sizes and how they can impact your vehicle’s overall performance. By understanding how tire sizes work, you’ll be better equipped to select the right size tire for your vehicle and transfer your TPMS sensors with confidence.

Some Common Problems & Solutions

Installing TPMS problems

Since the TPMS was made compulsory in cars, their use has grown and keeps growing, but this growth does not come without problems, which we usually encounter using TPMS.

Also, we have brought alongside possible solutions to these problems, and they are as follow;

Updating tools

Updating tools for the TPMS is a challenge for technicians servicing the TPMS. It is done by a simple update of an upgrade of the program for some tech devices when new updates are released. But this is not as straightforward for TPMS. A wireless internet connection is needed to solve this problem. With a properly configured tool, the update can automatically be made available.

Premature stoppage of sensors function

This is yet another issue most often encountered with the TPMS sensors. When this occurs, you will have to check if the batteries are not dead already. However, the battery life span is usually between, 2-10 years but, the average is 5 years before they stop working, but the batteries could stop even earlier. So be sure to replace them with suitable and manufacturer-recommended batteries and specifications.

Sensor malfunctioning

Even when the TPMS sensor seems to be functioning just ok, it transmits the wrong signal, which may cause the warning dashboard indicator not to come up. For this, you may need to reprogram the sensor for better transmission of signals between sensors and computers, or sometimes it may require a software upgrade.

FAQs

Why do I have TPMS on my Vehicle?

TPMS, or Tire Pressure Monitoring System, is a safety feature that is required by law on all vehicles sold in the United States since 2007. The main purpose of TPMS is to alert the driver if there is a significant decrease in tire pressure, which can affect the vehicle’s handling and stability.

When the TPMS detects low tire pressure, it will usually display a warning light on the dashboard of the vehicle. In some cases, the system may also provide an audible alert to notify the driver. This alert is designed to help the driver take appropriate action, such as inflating the tires to the proper pressure before a potential safety issue arises.

Properly inflated tires are important for a number of reasons, including improving fuel efficiency, reducing tire wear, and ensuring proper handling and stability of the vehicle. By alerting the driver when tire pressure is low, the TPMS can help to improve overall vehicle safety and performance.

Can I bypass or disable the TPMS?

It is not recommended to bypass or disable the TPMS in your vehicle. This is an important safety feature that is designed to monitor the air pressure in your tires and alert you when the pressure is too low. This helps to prevent accidents and prolong the life of your tires.

Additionally, it is illegal to tamper with or disable any safety features in your vehicle, including the TPMS. In some countries, it may even result in a fine or penalty.

What is the benefit of TPMS?

It has a few but far-reaching benefits, like warning you about low-pressure levels in your tires. In addition, it will help you manage your fuel more efficiently and prevent accidents that may result from low-pressure tires.

How often should I change the batteries to my TPMS sensors?

The lifespan of TPMS sensor batteries can vary depending on various factors such as usage, temperature, and type of battery. However, it is generally recommended to replace TPMS sensor batteries every 5-7 years as a preventative maintenance measure.

Some manufacturers may also recommend replacing the TPMS sensors entirely after a certain number of years to ensure continued accuracy and reliability. It is important to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific maintenance intervals for your TPMS system.

Additionally, if you notice any issues with your TPMS system, such as a warning light that won’t turn off, it is recommended to have the system checked by a qualified technician.

Where is the tire pressure sensor?

It is located inside each tire on the wheel assembly. It is attached to the valve stem or mounted to the inside of the wheel. In some vehicles, the TPMS sensor is also integrated with the valve stem itself.

It is designed to monitor the tire pressure and transmit the data to the vehicle’s onboard computer system. If the tire pressure drops below a certain threshold, the TPMS sensor sends a signal to the computer, which then alerts the driver through a warning light on the dashboard.

Verdicts

TPMS sensor

A lot has been said from the time we began until now. But, TPMS has come to stay, and their use will only increase, and soon, all vehicles on our roads will be fitted with a TPMS sensor.

When this happens, we will have less fuel burnt and contributes to a cleaner, green environment due to efficient fuel usage. It will also reduce the breaking distance usually caused by less air-pressured tires.

All these will be achieved if we act to the warnings seen on our dashboard from the TPMS sensors. But most importantly, we have given you instructions to help guide you on the continued functioning of your TPMS at little or no cost.

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