A healthy tire isnโt just about the right pressure or good treads. Itโs also about the tinyย TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)ย sensor attached to it. That small device plays a big role in your vehicleโs safety and performance.
It can seem complex, but understanding and programming a TPMS sensor isnโt rocket science. Itโs a skill you can master, and weโre here to guide you.
How To Program TPMS Sensors
To program TPMS sensors, youโll need a TPMS programming tool, like the Autel. This tool allows you to connect the sensor to the vehicleโs computer, input the necessary data, and confirm successful programming.
In this article, weโll dive deep into the world of TPMS sensors, explaining what they are and why they matter. Weโll distinguish between TPMS relearn and reprogramming, and guide you through using an Autel tool to program both Autel MX sensors and Schrader EZ-sensors.
Plus, weโll cover cloning TPMS sensors and programming universal TPMS sensors, making sure you have the knowledge to maintain your vehicleโs TPMS system efficiently and effectively.
Letโs take a closer look.

Table of Contents
Understanding TPMS Sensors
TPMS, short for Tire Pressure Monitoring System, is like your vehicleโs early warning system for its tires. Letโs dive deeper into what they are, why theyโre so important, and the types we commonly encounter.
What are TPMS Sensors?
TPMS sensors are clever little devices installed inside your car or truckโs tires. They keep an eye on your tire pressure and send that information to your vehicleโs computer. When the pressure in one or more tires drops 25% below the recommended level, your vehicleโs dashboard flashes a warning symbol. This warning gives you time to inflate your tires before things get dangerous or costly.
Why are TPMS Sensors Important?
You might be wondering, why all this fuss over tire pressure? Well, here are a few key reasons:
- Safety: Properly inflated tires grip the road better, which means better control and fewer accidents.
- Longevity: Correct tire pressure helps your tires last longer, saving you from buying new ones ahead of schedule.
- Fuel Efficiency: Under-inflated tires make your vehicle work harder, which means it uses more gas.
Now that you know what TPMS sensors are and why theyโre essential, letโs talk about the two main types you might encounter: direct and indirect TPMS sensors.

Direct TPMS Sensors
Direct TPMS sensors are located inside your tires. Each sensor measures the actual air pressure and reports it to your vehicleโs computer. Hereโs a quick rundown:
- Accurate Readings: Because these sensors measure the pressure directly, their readings are very accurate.
- Battery Powered: Direct TPMS sensors are powered by batteries that usually last 5-10 years. When the battery dies, youโll need to replace the whole sensor.
- Cost: These sensors are a bit more expensive than their indirect counterparts. However, their accuracy often outweighs the cost difference for many drivers.

Indirect TPMS Sensors
Indirect TPMS sensors donโt measure tire pressure. Instead, they use your vehicleโs anti-lock braking systemโs speed sensors to calculate tire pressure. Hereโs what you need to know:
- Less Accurate: Since indirect TPMS sensors estimate the pressure based on speed sensor data, they can sometimes give inaccurate readings.
- Low Maintenance: These sensors donโt have batteries, which means less maintenance.
- Cost-Effective: Indirect sensors are less expensive than direct sensors. However, they might require more frequent checks to ensure accuracy.

Autel MX Sensor
The Basics of Programming TPMS Sensors
Programming TPMS sensors might sound intimidating, but itโs not as complicated as it seems. The process involves telling your vehicleโs computer to start communicating with the new sensors. In this section, weโll get a handle on the basics of this process, and weโll also talk about the tools you might need.
TPMS Programming: The Basic Steps
While the exact steps can vary depending on your vehicle model and the tools youโre using, the general process usually looks something like this:
- Step 1: Choose the Right Sensor: Not all TPMS sensors are universal. Youโll need to get a sensor thatโs compatible with your vehicle.
- Step 2: Install the Sensor: Once you have the right sensor, it needs to be installed in your tire. This should typically be done by a professional to avoid damaging the tire or sensor.
- Step 3: Start the Programming: With the sensor installed, you can start the programming. This involves using a TPMS programming tool to connect the sensor to your vehicleโs computer.
- Step 4: Test It Out: After the sensor is programmed, youโll want to test it to make sure itโs working correctly. This typically involves driving around for a bit to see if the sensor readings are accurate.
Tools Youโll Need
Youโre going to need a tool to program your TPMS sensors. There are several options out there, but one commonly used tool is the Autel TPMS Programming Tool. Hereโs why:
- Versatility: Autel makes tools that are compatible with a broad range of vehicles and sensors.
- Ease of Use: Autel tools are known for being user-friendly, even for beginners.
- Reliability: These tools are robust and reliable, making them a preferred choice for many.

Autel Relearn Tool
TPMS Relearn vs Reprogram
Now that youโre familiar with the basics of TPMS programming, itโs time to understand the differences between relearning and reprogramming. Though they might sound similar, they serve different purposes in the world of TPMS maintenance.
What is TPMS Relearn?
Relearning is a process your vehicleโs computer goes through to identify TPMS sensors. When you replace a sensor or rotate your tires, the computer needs to โrelearnโ which sensor is in which tire. Hereโs what that looks like:
- Step 1: Initiate Relearn: Using a TPMS tool, initiate the relearn process. This sends a signal to the vehicleโs computer to start the process.
- Step 2: Activate Sensors: Using the TPMS tool, activate each sensor. The tool sends a signal that โwakes upโ the sensor and prompts it to send a signal to the computer.
- Step 3: Confirm Completion: Once all sensors are activated, the relearn process is complete. The vehicleโs computer now recognizes each sensor in its new position.
What is TPMS Reprogram?
Reprogramming is a bit more complex. When you have a new sensor or a sensor that is not pre-programmed to your vehicleโs specific make and model, youโll need to reprogram it. Hereโs a basic rundown of what that involves:
- Step 1: Connect the Sensor and Tool: Using a TPMS programming tool, connect the tool to the sensor. This usually involves selecting the vehicle make and model on the tool and then holding the tool near the sensor.
- Step 2: Program the Sensor: The TPMS tool will provide instructions on how to program the sensor. Follow these instructions to program the sensor to communicate with the vehicleโs computer.
- Step 3: Confirm Programming: After programming the sensor, youโll need to confirm that the programming was successful. This typically involves driving the vehicle for a few minutes to ensure the sensor communicates properly with the computer.
Relearn vs Reprogram: The Key Differences
Now that we know what relearning and reprogramming are, letโs look at their key differences:
- Purpose: Relearning is for when the TPMS sensors are moved to different tires (like after a tire rotation), while reprogramming is for new or non-pre-programmed sensors.
- Process: The relearning process involves matching each sensor to its tire location, while the reprogramming process involves setting up the sensor to communicate with the vehicleโs computer.
- Frequency: Relearning might need to be done more frequently (like after tire rotations or sensor battery replacements), while reprogramming typically only happens when a new or replacement sensor is installed.
How to Program TPMS Sensors with Autel
Autelโs TPMS tools are incredibly user-friendly and versatile, making them a popular choice for both professionals and DIYers. In this section, weโll guide you through the steps to program your TPMS sensors using Autel tools. Weโll also cover programming both Autel MX TPMS sensors and Schrader EZ-Sensors with an Autel device.
Programming Autel MX TPMS Sensor
The Autel MX-Sensor is a 100% clone-able sensor that can replace 98% of direct TPMS sensors on the market today. Hereโs how you program it:
- Step 1: Select Vehicle: Start by selecting the make, model, and year of your vehicle on the Autel device.
- Step 2: Connect Sensor: Place the Autel device close to the MX-Sensor and select โProgram Sensorโ.
- Step 3: Choose Programming Method: You can choose from four methods โ Copy by Activation, Copy by OBD, Copy by Input, or Auto Create. Choose the one that fits your situation best.
- Step 4: Follow Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the programming. Once done, the device will display a confirmation message.
- Step 5: Test the Sensor: Drive around for a bit to make sure the sensor is communicating correctly with the vehicleโs computer.
Programming Schrader EZ-Sensor with Autel
The Schrader EZ-Sensor is another popular programmable TPMS sensor that works well with Autel devices. Hereโs how to program it:
- Step 1: Select Vehicle: On the Autel device, select the make, model, and year of your vehicle.
- Step 2: Choose Sensor: From the sensor selection menu, choose โSchrader EZ-Sensorโ.
- Step 3: Connect Sensor: Place the Autel device near the EZ-Sensor and select โProgram Sensorโ.
- Step 4: Follow Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the programming. Youโll see a confirmation message once the programming is successful.
- Step 5: Test the Sensor: Finally, give the sensor a test run by driving the vehicle. Make sure the sensor communicates correctly with the vehicleโs computer.

Schrader EZ Sensor
How to Clone TPMS Sensors
Cloning a TPMS sensor means creating an exact copy of the original sensor. This process can be incredibly useful, especially when replacing a damaged sensor, as it enables the new sensor to seamlessly communicate with the vehicleโs computer. Letโs explore how to clone TPMS sensors using an Autel tool.
Steps to Clone TPMS Sensors
Hereโs the general process of cloning a TPMS sensor:
- Step 1: Gather Information: Start by using the Autel tool to read the original sensorโs information. This will typically include the sensorโs ID, tire location, pressure, temperature, and battery status.
- Step 2: Enter Sensor Information: Next, enter the collected sensor information into the Autel tool. This will usually involve selecting the โClone Sensorโ option and then manually entering the sensorโs ID and other information.
- Step 3: Program New Sensor: With the original sensorโs information entered, you can now program the new sensor. Place the new sensor near the tool and select โProgram Sensorโ. The tool will transfer the original sensorโs information to the new sensor.
- Step 4: Confirm Successful Cloning: Once the new sensor is programmed, confirm that the cloning was successful. This usually involves checking that the new sensorโs ID matches the original sensorโs ID.
- Step 5: Install and Test: Finally, install the cloned sensor in the tire and test it. Drive around for a bit to make sure the new sensor is communicating correctly with the vehicleโs computer.
Cloning a sensor is an excellent way to maintain the same level of accuracy and reliability when youโre replacing a TPMS sensor. Since the vehicleโs computer sees the cloned sensor as the original, thereโs no need for relearning or reprogramming. Just remember to always test the sensor after installation to confirm everything is working correctly.

Schrader EZ Sensor
How to Program Universal TPMS Sensor
Universal TPMS sensors, as their name implies, are designed to work with a wide variety of vehicles. These sensors can be programmed to match the specifications of your vehicle, making them a flexible option when you need to replace a TPMS sensor. Hereโs how you can program a universal TPMS sensor using an Autel tool.
Steps to Program a Universal TPMS Sensor
Follow these steps to program your universal TPMS sensor:
- Step 1: Select Your Vehicle: On the Autel tool, youโll start by selecting the make, model, and year of your vehicle.
- Step 2: Connect Sensor: Place the Autel device close to the universal TPMS sensor and select โProgram Sensorโ.
- Step 3: Choose Programming Method: The Autel tool will provide a few programming options. The method you choose depends on your specific needs. You might see options like โCopy by Activationโ, โCopy by OBDโ, โCopy by Inputโ, or โAuto Createโ.
- Step 4: Follow Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the programming. Once done, youโll see a confirmation message on the Autel device.
- Step 5: Test the Sensor: After the sensor is installed in the tire, test it by driving the vehicle for a short period. This helps ensure the sensor is communicating accurately with the vehicleโs computer.
Programming a universal TPMS sensor allows you to replace a damaged or faulty sensor without needing to search for a specific sensor model. It can also be a great option if youโre rotating your tires and need the flexibility of a universal sensor. Remember, though, that while universal sensors can be handy, they might not offer the exact features or compatibility of an original sensor.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
- Understanding TPMS programming โ Schrader
- TPMS programming vs. relearning โ Tire Review Magazine
Final Thoughts
Mastering the TPMS sensor, that small but essential part of your vehicleโs safety and performance, is a skill within reach. Weโve explored what TPMS sensors are, their purpose, and how they contribute to our driving experience. Weโve also learned the distinction between relearning and reprogramming TPMS sensors, as well as the specifics of using an Autel tool to program Autel MX sensors and Schrader EZ-sensors.
Cloning a TPMS sensor allows for a seamless transition when replacing a sensor, while programming a universal TPMS sensor provides flexibility for various vehicles. By understanding these concepts and processes, youโre now equipped to ensure your vehicleโs TPMS system remains in tip-top shape. This not only improves your driving safety but also enhances overall vehicle performance. Remember, knowledge is power, and this power can save you time, money, and prevent potential tire-related accidents.
Good luck and happy motoring.