There are 2 types of TPMS SYSTEMS

1) Direct TPMS:

Direct TPMS methods use pressure sensors to measure tire pressure in each of the four tires. Then these sensors transmit the pressure data via a wireless RF transmitter to a central receiver. The receiver communicates to a display that informs the driver which tire is underinflated. The tag in each wheel is designed to send a warning signal when a tire's pressure drops below its specified safety level. Tire-mounted pressure sensor are known as TPMS. Under-inflation has been cited as a cause of tire failures such as tread separation or tire blowouts. It is also responsible for shortening tire life and reducing fuel economy.

2) Indirect TPMS:

Indirect systems employ wheel speed sensors on a vehicle's anti-lock brake (ABS) system to track each tire's rotation. The premise is that under-inflated tires have a smaller radius, resulting in a higher rotational speed compared with a fully inflated tire. The sensor is supposed to detect the faster rotation, and the system alerts the driver. In practice, this change in radius is small, making indirect measurement less reliable than direct pressure measurement.

There are also 2 types of actual TPMS Sensors

1) Direct FIT TPMS sensors:

This is an OE or OEM type of TPMS. This means it already has the protocol loaded in the TPMS for your specific year, make and model of vehicle. READY TO INSTALL.

2) Programmable FIT TPMS sensors:

This is a TPMS that can be PROGRAMMED for many different (about 95%) vehicles on the road. When you purchase these from TPMSBargains we program them for you with the correct protocol and ship them READY TO INSTALL.

PROGRAMMING vs RELEARN: These are two completely different tasks. Programming a sensor is described above. It needs to be done only on programmable and NOT OE or OEM TPMS sensors with a capable TPMS machine. Once programmed you are ready to install. Once you have mounted, balanced and installed the tires you still have to do a RELEARN. This tells the vehicle you have new TPMS. This is done 3 different ways; Auto relearn, Trigger Tool relearn or OBD Relearn. All vehicles are different in terms of relearn procedure.

Start by identifying your vehicle. You will need the following information:

• Make
• Model
• Year

In some cases, you may also need the vehicle's production date and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). This information can be found on the driver-side door jamb. Your VIN can also be used to verify the original sensor part number installed on your vehicle. Contacting your local dealership's parts department can help confirm this information. TPMSBargains includes the corresponding OEM part numbers for each sensor in our listings.

Our part numbers and fitment details are based on the vehicle's production date. Because some models have mid-year changes, we recommend confirming the correct part number with your dealer part department before making a purchase.

Many makes and models require programming of the vehicle and/or sensors when components are replaced. Some vehicles also require a period of driving before the new sensors are recognized and registered.

TPMS sensors communicate with a vehicle's system using radio signals. Frequency (315 MHz or 433 MHz) refers to the radio band the sensor uses to transmit data. In general, 315 MHz is common in North America, while 433 MHz is more common in Europe and other regions.

Protocol refers to the specific communication format and identification system used by the sensor. Each TPMS sensor has a unique ID and follows a manufacturer-specific protocol so the vehicle's computer can recognize the sensor and assign it to the correct wheel position.

Many vehicles may use the same frequency but different protocols. This means that a 433 MHz sensor from one vehicle will not necessarily work in another vehicle that also uses 433 MHz unless the protocol is compatible.

In short:

• Frequency = the radio signal used to transmit data
• Protocol = the language and ID system the vehicle uses to understand the sensor
• Both the frequency and the protocol must match for a TPMS sensor to work correctly with a vehicle.

Constant monitoring of inflation pressure, tire temperature, tire sensor identification and battery life while driving and when standing still prevents the consequences of low tire pressure through early detection. Punctures (approx. 80% of punctures are caused by inadequate tire pressure), increased tire wear due to added flexing work and increased fuel consumption due to higher rolling resistance.

• Proper tire pressure always provides optimum driving comfort.
• Driver is informed immediately of deviations from setpoint
• Vibration resistant and even suitable for use with snow chains
• Flexible design for almost all rim applications
• Tire inflation pressure can be individually specified and therefore tailored exactly to the loading of the vehicle
• Self-learning system with automatic individual wheel detection, leading to faster and more efficient wheel changes
• Saves the troublesome, inconvenient and inaccurate testing at gas stations (the tires warm up while driving to the gas station, while the specified values apply to cold tires)
• Reduces fuel consumption and the release of CO2 into the atmosphere

1. Check tire pressure at least once a month and before going on long trips. Since temperature affects tire pressure, it is best to check tires when they are cold, i.e. haven't been driven on for at least three hours.
2. Fill your tires with the pressure recommended on the tire label, located on the drivers door frame, sill or edge.
3. If you have any questions about your tires or maintenance, check your owners manual or consult your dealer.