--- title: "Best TPMS Tools: Reset Tire Pressure Sensors Yourself and Save Money" description: "We review and pick the best TPMS tools on the market. Our picks include everything from budget to premium so you can reset your tire sensors." date: "2019-12-20" modified: "2024-07-01" authors: - name: "Hank O'Hop" job_title: "Contributor" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/hank-ohop" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/reviews/31290/best-tpms-tool" categories: - "Accessories" - "Car Electronics" - "Car Parts" - "The Garage" - "Tools" tags: - "Buying Guides" - "commerce" - "NoAds" - "Roundup" --- # Best TPMS Tools: Reset Tire Pressure Sensors Yourself and Save Money ![]() 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. ## Summary List - Best Overall: [Autel MaxiTPMS New Generation Diagnostic & Service Tool]() - Best Value: [THINKCAR TPMS Tool]() - 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 ## Best Overall: [Autel MaxiTPMS New Generation Diagnostic & Service Tool]() Autel is a reputable brand that's very popular for its automotive diagnostic tools. The MaxiTPMS TS508, one of the products in the series, is a tool that does more than just monitor air pressure. It can scan, relearn, program, and display sensor information. It comes with a color screen that shows you the different values. This TPMS tool activates recognized OEM and universal TPMS sensors. It also offers direct access to your vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU), so you can use it to clear diagnostic trouble codes and to reprogram sensor IDs. You can also utilize its quick mode to quickly access data. Making for the most complete, high-tier package, it comes with 8 Autel MX-Sensors. The TPMS relearn feature grants you access to the vehicle’s engine control unit for quick diagnostics. The Sensor Check feature allows you to check TPMS data like the tire pressure and temperature, sensor IDs, and battery. However, this is a professional TPMS tool, and some of the functions can only be utilized by technicians who are well-versed in various professional, technical procedures. On the downside, this gadget only works with Autel sensors. ## Best Value: [THINKCAR TPMS Tool]() As you may have guessed from reading some of our other picks, Autel is one of the few makers of TPMS tools that offers an all-in-one solution, that works with the most cars, at a reasonable price. Well, if you are already a THINKCAR tool user, or don't mind buying an OBD2 scan tool, then this might be your solution. The THINKCAR tool is able to reset your sensors, allows the car to relearn them, and it monitor their battery voltage and health. It's rechargeable and updateable via its USB port with lifetime free updates. It will also allow you to see tire pressures and temperatures while on the car. It works with 98% of TPMS systems along with both iOS and Android devices. ## Honorable Mention: [JDIAG 2IN1 TPMS Relearn Tool]() If you’re looking for one of the most affordable relearning tools on the market, the JDIAG 2IN1 TPMS Relearn Tool fits the bill. It’s a basic tool that can detect and relearn (find) the location of sensors in case of a tire change or sensor replacement. This simple device will save you trips to the tire shop and possibly pay for itself rather quickly. To switch on the tool, press the white circular button at the front. Nine-volt batteries ensure it performs reliably and is easy to recharge. This TPMS tool works with both OEM and aftermarket tire pressure sensors, and you’ll also appreciate the illustrated instructions it comes with. This is a generally reliable relearning tool, however, it has a few drawbacks. It only works with GM and Ford car—the “G” stands for GM cars, while the “F” represents Ford cars. It also might also fail to reset malfunction indicator lights, and users report that its written instructions are incomplete. ## Best for Home Mechanics: [Autel TS601 TPMS Relearn Tool]() As we already noted, Autel is a leader in automotive diagnostics, detection, and analysis, and that's why we're featuring so many of its products on our list. The Autel TS601 TPMS Relearn Tool is a great option as long as it's compatible with your vehicle. You can ensure this by checking your vehicle's make, model, and VIN with the company. It supports up to 98 percent of American, European, and Asian vehicles with TPMS systems. This device provides all the TPMS functions you need, including a reading code, clearing code, and even creating a live data stream. To program the sensor data into a new sensor, the device features four programming modes: auto create, manual create, copy by OBD, and copy by activation. It can also program the Autel MX-Sensor, which is Autel's own product that's comparable to anything made by OE parts companies. It reads, records and plays back TPMS live data, including tire pressure, signal status, temperature, battery status, etc. Users report that it's easy to use, and the tool and its case are of very good quality. While the printed instructions are not in depth, there are videos online that can provide assistance. However, the menus can be a little confusing and it's a little pricey. ## Best Value Runner-Up: [Autokcan TPMS Relearn Tool]() The Autokcan TPMS Relearn Tool works with GM vehicles equipped with 315 or 433 MHZ Tire Pressure Monitor Systems. It's a handy tool to have when you replace tire pressure sensors, remove tire pressure alarms, or change tires. The device reprograms all tires in just three steps. It's easy to activate: Simply hold it against the tire's sidewall near the valve stem, and press the "learn" button until you hear a sound. Users report that this tool is very easy to use as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions. It's also backed by a 12-month warranty should you experience any issues. Overall, it's an inexpensive gadget that works in just minutes. However, the device requires a 9-volt battery that must be purchased separately. Also, the signal may not be as strong as a more premium brand, and report that it can take slightly longer to figure out and successfully use ## 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 []()[THINKCAR TPMS Tool]() 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. ## Author Hank is a former Commerce Editor at The Drive. ### Author social links [LinkedIn]() [Instagram]()