Most vehicles require some type of "stationary" relearn procedure to reset the TPMS system. This requires a TPMS tool to activate each of the tire pressure sensors in a specified sequence so the TPMS control module can relearn their new locations.
Most vehicles require some type of “stationary” relearn procedure to reset the system. This requires some type of TPMS tool to activate each of the tire pressure sensors in a specified sequence so the TPMS control module can relearn their new locations. On some GM applications, a J-41760 magnetic tool is required to “wake up” the sensors. On most other applications, a factory TPMS tool or an aftermarket TPMS tool that broadcasts a radio signal is needed for the sensor position relearn procedure.
On some applications, the TPMS relearn tool can be connected to the vehicle’s OBD II diagnostic connector to read and clear codes, display system data and perform sensor ID programming. On many Asian and
European applications, each individual tire pressure sensor has a unique ID code. Vehicles that currently require this kind of reprogramming include most Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota models. If one or more sensors have been replaced, the new ID information has to be input directly into the system. So if you don’t have a TPMS tool that can do this, your only alternative is to send your customer back to the new car dealer to have the ID reprogramming done.
TPMS relearn procedures vary a great deal from one vehicle to the next, so you also need access to the TPMS service data for the vehicle, or a reference manual or chart that covers the relearn procedures. Without this vital information, you can’t reset the system.
Essentially, most relearn procedures require you to put the system into a relearn mode. On some, this may require a command from a scan tool or plug-in TPMS tool. Or, you may have to cycle the ignition key on and off a certain number of times while stepping on the brake pedal. On others, the keyless entry fob may be used to wake up the TPMS module and ready it for relearning.
When the TPMS is ready, it may signal by beeping the horn or flashing the hazard lights. The TPMS activation tool is then placed near one of the tire pressure sensors, and a button is pressed for five or six seconds to wake up the sensor. As soon as the TPMS module recognizes the sensor and learns its position, the system signals again by beeping the horn or flashing the hazard lights. You then repeat the same procedure for each of the remaining tire pressure sensors in the specified order until the relearn procedure is complete.
Even on vehicles that have a key fob or driver information center relearn procedures, scan or dedicated TPMS tools that can interface through the OBD II connection can have advantages when it becomes to difficult to reprogram vehicles.
With some procedures using a J-41760 magnetic tool, you are flying blind. Problems with the key fob, antenna and even the module or serial data bus connection can leave you chasing your tail. With a scan or dedicated scan tool, it is possible to perform a more accurate relearn and diagnosis and problems.
Stuck In A Loop
Toyota vehicles prior to 2009 are equipped with a Tire Pressure Warning Reset Switch that can be used for initialization. When the button is pushed and held for more than three seconds, the vehicle’s receivers are open and looking for the currently stored TPMS IDs.
What if there is a missing or broken sensor? What if there are new sensors on the vehicle that have not yet been programmed? This will cause the vehicle to become stuck in a loop, searching for TPMS IDs that are no longer there. If you have a scan tool and try to enter into the initialization mode, it might say, “Lost Communication With ECU,” or a similar message.
Bartec USA has developed the Toyota Loop Reset tool to resolve this issue. When a Toyota vehicle is “stuck in the loop,” the technician will not be able to write IDs using the OBD II connection, and the tool will “error out.” To verify it’s a result of the loop condition, the technician can select the READ IDs option, which will connect and read out the IDs. If this is successful, the vehicle is “in the loop.”
How to use the BARTEC WRTRST50 to Reset the Vehicle:
1.Turn the ignition to the On position
2.Insert the WRTRST50 tool into the OBD II port on the vehicle. Once connected, press and hold the button on the WRTRST50 tool for at least 20 seconds. Do not cycle the ignition switch to the Off position during this step.
3.Remove the WRTRST50 tool, and then resume the TPMS relearn procedure.
Note: The tool does not work with Land Cruiser models.
