Earlier this week, Continental Corp.’s Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket division introduced its new TPMS solution, which the company said works with all existing scan tools, saving significant time and money for parts and service professionals.
The new VDO REDI-Sensor multi-application TPMS sensor is designed to work on multiple vehicle applications and can replace a wide variety of OE sensors. Unlike other multi-application sensors that are supplied as blank units and need to be programmed with a specialized tool and software, VDO REDI-Sensor is ready to use right out of the box, according to the company. It is designed to work with all leading TPMS scan tools, including tools from ATEQ, Bartec, OTC and T.I.P.S.
The sensor can also save time during the vehicle relearn process when used with scan tools that incorporate a hunt mode. REDI-Sensor uses an “intelligent design” to wake faster and deliver positive results sooner. This prevents the relearn process from timing out and eliminates the need to redo the procedure, Continental said. REDI-Sensor relearns to the vehicle as easily as the OE sensor and the scan tool relearn process is unchanged from OE.
The maker said service shops only need to keep a small supply of REDI-Sensors on hand to be ready to service practically any vehicle that comes in.
“VDO REDI-Sensor is the most versatile TPMS sensor in the market. It replaces a host of OE sensors, including banded, snap-in and clamp-in models from Continental, Lear, Schrader, Siemens VDO and TRW. This means WDs and parts stores can substantially reduce the number of SKUs required to provide full TPMS coverage,” Continental stated.
VDO REDI-Sensor is offered in 314.9/315 MHz and 433.92 MHz configurations and provides multi-application coverage for a broad range of popular cars, vans, SUVs, crossovers and light trucks from GM, Ford and Chrysler. Model year coverage extends from 2002 through 2011 for Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Jeep, Lincoln, Mercury, Pontiac and Saturn.
According to Steve Landis, TPMS product manager, applications for Asian and European vehicles are currently in development.
REDI-Sensor features a waterproof design. The valve core, stem and hex nut are treated against corrosion. The pivoting valve stem makes installation easier and accommodates a wide range of wheel rim profiles. A complete line of replacement parts and service kits is available and includes seal/washer, valve core, hex nut and sealing cap. Replacements are also available for the sensor’s durable metal valve stem, which is reusable.
