Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification code. The identification code needs to be matched to a new tire/wheel position after rotating the tires or replacing one or more of the TPMS sensors.
The TPMS sensor matching process should also be performed after replacing a spare tire with a road tire containing the TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off at the next ignition cycle. The sensors are matched to the tire/wheel positions, using a TPMS relearn tool, in the following order: driver side front tire, passenger side front tire, passenger side rear tire, and driver side rear.
There are two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall to matchall four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer, the matching process stops and must be restarted.
The TPMS sensor matching process is:
Set the parking brake.
Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off.
Use the MENU button to select the Vehicle Information menu in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
Use the thumbwheel to scroll to the Tire Pressure Menu item screen.
Press the SET/CLR button to begin the sensor matching process. A message requesting
acceptance of the process should display.
Press the SET/CLR button again to confirm the selection. The horn sounds twice to signal
the receiver is in relearn mode and the TIRE LEARNING ACTIVE message displays on the
DIC screen.
Start with the driver side front tire.
Place the relearn tool against the tire sidewall, near the valve stem. Then press the button
to activate the TPMS sensor. A horn chirp confirms that the sensor identification code has
been matched to this tire and wheel position.
Proceed to the passenger side front tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 8.
Proceed to the passenger side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 8.
Proceed to the driver side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 8. The horn sounds
two times to indicate the sensor identification code has been matched to the driver side rear
tire, and the TPMS sensor matching process is no longer active. The TIRE LEARNING
ACTIVE message on the DIC display screen goes off.
Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Set all four tires to the recommended air pressure level as indicated on the Tire and
Loading Information label.
This course, presented by Karl Schneider, covers everything you need to know about TPMS. Karl covers the shop’s legal responsibilities that come with TPMS and how to avoid expensive ramifications. He goes over the three types of sensors you will encounter, how to diagnose and service these types. As a wrap-up, Karl conducts some hands-on case studies that will have you feeling confident in your knowledge of properly servicing TPMS.