Best TPMS Tools: Reset Tire Pressure Sensors Yourself and Save Money
This simple, easy-to-use tool can save a you a big headache.
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Keeping your tires in check is easier now more than ever. With TPMS sensors in place, your car tells you if pressure is out of whack and even gives a live reading of tire pressure in some cases. With this system in place, you have almost no excuse not to be running the right tire pressure at all times. That is unless your TPMS sensors are out of whack. But even that is made easy when you add a TPMS tool to your collection. This device is how you keep your tire pressure monitoring system in check. The only thing standing between you and the perfect model for your situation is the hunt, and that's exactly what we're here to handle.
Autel MaxiTPMS New Generation Diagnostic & Service Tool
- TPMS relearn gives access to the vehicle’s ECU for quick diagnostics and reading and writing of the sensors’ IDs
- Sensor Check feature allows viewing of TPMS data such as the sensor’s ID, battery, and position, plus tire pressure and temperature
- Offers professional-level readings for in-depth information
- Sensor programming may be a little awkward
- Professional features may confuse first-time users
Autel MaxiTPMS TS401
- Activates all tire deflation-triggered and magnetic-triggered sensors found in TPMS units
- A lifetime of free updates included
- Stores your previous settings
- Does not read the battery level of the old sensors (if replacing sensors)
- May not work on sensors that are not Autel brand
JDIAG 2IN1 TPMS Relearn Tool
- Simple to operate, even for first-time users
- Works on after-market as well as OEM tire pressure sensors
- Illustrated instructions included
- The written instructions could be more complete
- Sometimes the tool does not reset the malfunction indicator light (MIL)
Summary List
- Best Overall: Autel MaxiTPMS New Generation Diagnostic & Service Tool
- Best Value: Autel MaxiTPMS TS401 TPMS System
- Honorable Mention: JDIAG 2IN1 TPMS Relearn Tool
- Best for Home Mechanics: Autel TS601 TPMS Relearn Tool
- Best Value Runner-Up: Autokcan TPMS Relearn Tool
Our Methodology
To identify the best TPMS tools available, we searched online for products at different price points and various features, and compared them with user reviews. We also looked at each device's compatibility with different TPMS sensors, gauged how compatible each was with modern vehicles, and chose those that offered the most versatility. Finally, we considered how extensive any given TPMS tool’s features and ability to read different codes was, opting to highlight those that could diagnose more problems for added convenience. To learn more about how we select and rate products, check this out.
Best TPMS Tools Reviews & Recommendations
Specs
- Manufacturer: Autel
- Part Number:TS508K
- Weight: 1.76 Pounds
Pros
TPMS relearn gives access to the vehicle’s ECU for quick diagnostics and reading and writing of the sensors’ IDs
Sensor Check feature allows viewing of TPMS data such as the sensor’s ID, battery, and position, plus tire pressure and temperature
Offers professional-level readings for in-depth information
Cons
Sensor programming may be a little awkward
Professional features may confuse first-time users
Specs
- Manufacturer: Autel
- Part Number:TS408
- Weight: 3.31 Pounds
Pros
Activates all tire deflation-triggered and magnetic-triggered sensors found in TPMS units
A lifetime of free updates included
Stores your previous settings
Cons
Does not read the battery level of the old sensors (if replacing sensors)
May not work on sensors that are not Autel brand
Specs
- Manufacturer:JDIAG
- Part Number:EL50448
- Weight: 5.9 Ounces
Pros
Simple to operate, even for first-time users
Works on after-market as well as OEM tire pressure sensors
Illustrated instructions included
Cons
The written instructions could be more complete
Sometimes the tool does not reset the malfunction indicator light (MIL)
Specs
- Manufacturer:Autel
- Part Number:TS601
- Weight: 3.5 Pounds
Pros
Excellent support of the market
Comprehensive interface
Offers all useful data regarding TPMS systems
Cons
Instructions aren’t very helpful
Somewhat difficult to use
Specs
- Manufacturer:Autokcan
- Part Number:Autokcan
- Weight: 4.2 Ounces
Pros
Affordable
Easy one-button function
Fast operational time
Backed by 12-month warranty
Cons
Does not include batteries
Signal strength can see improvement
Our Verdict on the Best TPMS Tools
We chose the Autel MaxiTPMS New Generation Diagnostic & Service Tool as our top choice overall. This is because it recognizes sensors universally and seamlessly connects to your vehicle’s ECU. On the other hand, the hand-held Autel MaxiTPMS TS401 is our choice for best value because it works on 98 percent of today’s cars and trucks.
What to Consider When Choosing a TPMS Tool
Key Features
Compatibility
Tool and sensor compatibility is a major factor to consider when buying a TPMS tool. Some tools are meant to be used with particular car models, while others can be used with a wide selection of vehicles. If you want a TPMS tool you can use on multiple vehicles, get one that’s compatible with American, European, and Asian cars. Most brands fall within these categories.
Interface
The functions of a TPMS tool guide its design and price. While some TPMS tools are basically monitor-only systems, some have more than four functions. They can check the tire pressure, relearn sensors, reset codes, and program sensors. They display this data in real time on an LCD screen.
Power Source
Battery powered, solar powered, or rechargeable? The power source is an important feature when choosing a TPMS tool. While some tools have nine-volt batteries that last long, there are newer products that have rechargeable batteries or use solar energy. It is also important to know the status of the battery, so you know when it’s time to replace it.
TPMS Tool Pricing
TPMS tools can range anywhere from $10-$300 or more. Features are a primary determining factor for pricing. More basic models that have very limited functions will run at the lower end of the price scale, while more comprehensive versions sell for much more. Quality and application coverage also factor into what you can expect to pay.
FAQs
You've got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: What does a TPMS tool do?
This tool identifies the types of sensors in your tires and the information that the sensors contain. This information is necessary for the sensors to work correctly after you have performed maintenance such as a tire replacement or rotation. You use the tool to perform the proper relearn procedures to reset the system.
Q: Do all vehicles have a TPMS?
No, only newer cars and trucks. Manufacturers began to install TPMS in vehicles in the 1980s on a few luxury cars. Rollover problems on some vehicles in the late 1990s prompted laws mandating TPMS on U.S. vehicles. As of 2012, all vehicles sold in the U.S. and EU must have a TPMS.
Q: Can TPMS sensors be reprogrammed?
A: It depends on the kind of sensors your vehicle is equipped with. Many are reprogrammable, and all you need to reprogram them is one of the TPMS tools on our list above.
Q: Can I reset TPMS with an OBD2 scanner?
A: If your OBD2 scanner does come with the ability to read TPMS codes and reset its sensors, then you’ll be able to do so without a specialized TPMS tool. However, if your OBD2 scanner isn’t able to do so, you will need a separate device.
Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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