TPMS Relearn Procedures: A Step-by-Step Workshop Guide

After replacing TPMS sensors or rotating tires, the vehicle's TPMS module needs to learn the new sensor positions. This process, called "relearning" or "registration," varies by manufacturer. Mastering these procedures ensures successful service and happy customers.

Understanding Relearn Types

There are three main relearn methods used across the automotive industry:

1. Auto-Relearn (Drive to Learn)

The simplest method — the vehicle automatically learns new sensor IDs while driving.

• How it Works: Drive the vehicle at specified speed for a set duration
• Time Required: Typically 10-20 minutes of driving
• Tools Needed: None (may need TPMS tool to trigger sensors initially)
• Common Brands: Most Asian manufacturers, some Ford models

2. Stationary Relearn

The vehicle is put into "learn mode" and sensors are triggered in sequence.

• How it Works: Enable learn mode, trigger each sensor in order
• Time Required: 5-10 minutes
• Tools Needed: TPMS activation tool required
• Common Brands: GM, Ford, Chrysler, some Asian brands

3. OBD Relearn

Sensor IDs are written directly to the vehicle via the OBD-II port.

• How it Works: Read sensor IDs, write to vehicle ECU via OBD
• Time Required: 2-5 minutes
• Tools Needed: TPMS tool with OBD programming capability
• Common Brands: European vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW)

Relearn Procedures by Manufacturer

Toyota / Lexus

Method: Auto-Relearn (most models) or OBD (some newer models)

1. Inflate all tires to placard pressure
2. Turn ignition to ON position
3. Press and hold TPMS reset button (if equipped) until light blinks 3 times
4. Drive vehicle at 25+ mph for at least 10 minutes
5. System will automatically learn new sensor positions

Honda / Acura

Method: Auto-Relearn

1. Ensure tires are at correct pressure
2. Navigate to TPMS Calibration in vehicle settings (if equipped)
3. Select "Calibrate" or press and hold TPMS button
4. Drive for 30+ minutes at speeds above 30 mph
5. System automatically calibrates (may take up to several hours of cumulative driving)

General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick)

Method: Stationary Relearn

1. Apply parking brake, turn ignition to ON (engine off)
2. Press and release INFO button until "TIRE LEARNING" or "RELEARN TIRE POSITIONS" displays
3. Press SET/RESET button to start learn mode (horn chirps)
4. Starting at LF tire, trigger each sensor with TPMS tool (horn chirps twice to confirm)
5. Proceed to RF, RR, then LR tire (horn chirps after each)
6. Final horn chirp confirms completion

Ford

Method: Varies by model — Stationary or Auto-Relearn

Stationary Method (many models):

1. Turn ignition ON, press brake pedal
2. Press hazard button 6 times within 10 seconds
3. Horn will chirp indicating learn mode active
4. Trigger LF sensor with TPMS tool (horn chirps)
5. Continue with RF, RR, LR in sequence
6. Turn ignition OFF to complete

Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / Ram

Method: OBD Relearn (most newer models) or Auto-Relearn

1. Connect TPMS tool to OBD-II port
2. Read all four sensor IDs
3. Write IDs to vehicle in correct position order
4. Clear TPMS DTCs if present
5. Alternatively: Adjust tire pressure ±3 PSI and drive 20+ minutes for auto-learn

BMW

Method: OBD Relearn

1. Connect TPMS tool to OBD-II port
2. Trigger and read all sensor IDs
3. Program IDs to vehicle via OBD
4. Perform TPMS initialization through iDrive if required

Mercedes-Benz

Method: OBD Relearn + System Reset

1. Connect TPMS tool to OBD-II port
2. Read and program sensor IDs
3. Navigate to Vehicle Settings → Service → Tire Pressure
4. Select "Restart" to initialize system
5. Drive briefly to confirm operation

Volkswagen / Audi

Method: OBD Relearn + Dashboard Reset

1. Program sensor IDs via OBD
2. Access MMI/Infotainment → Vehicle Settings → Service
3. Select Tire Pressure Monitoring → Store Tire Pressure
4. Confirm to accept new values

Troubleshooting Common Relearn Issues

Relearn Won't Initiate

• Verify ignition is in correct position (ON, not ACC)
• Check that parking brake is engaged if required
• Ensure all doors are closed
• Battery voltage may be too low — connect charger

Sensor Won't Trigger

• New sensor may need programming first
• Sensor battery may be dead
• Hold TPMS tool directly against tire sidewall near sensor
• Try alternate trigger method (magnet vs. LF signal)

Relearn Completes But Light Stays On

• Tire pressure may be below threshold — verify and adjust
• Sensor may have wrong protocol — verify compatibility
• TPMS DTCs may need clearing via scan tool
• Drive cycle may be required to clear fault

Best Practices

• Always verify correct sensor frequency and protocol before installation
• Document sensor positions and IDs for future reference
• Set all tires to placard pressure before relearn
• Keep TPMS tool software/database updated
• Have backup procedures ready for each vehicle type

Conclusion

Mastering TPMS relearn procedures is essential for modern automotive service. While the variety of methods can seem complex, understanding the three main types and having reliable procedures for common vehicles ensures efficient service. Quality sensors that program reliably reduce comebacks and build customer confidence.