Keeping your tires properly inflated is imperative for your safety. Without proper tire pressure, you’ll lose out on gas mileage, and the risk of a blowout increases. For these reasons, your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system needs to be accurate. While you can take your vehicle to a mechanic to fix any issues, adding a tire pressure monitoring system tool (TPMS) to your garage will save you a ton of money.
If you’re the type of person that does tire rotations and tire changes on your own, having a TPMS tool will make a difference in your life. They’re budget-friendly items that make it simple to reset your tire pressure system after routine maintenance. Even if you don’t do any work on your own car, they can be a great way to figure out exactly what you’re getting into before you take your car to the mechanic.
- Things to Consider When Shopping for TPMS Tools
- Top 10 Best TPMS Tools 2024
- 1. Best Overall TPMS Tool: JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool
- 2. Best Budget TPMS Tool: VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor
- 3. VXSCAN Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor Relearn
- 4. Best Premium TPMS Tool: Autel TPMS Relearn Tool
- 5. TPMS Tool With the Best Warranty: Greyghost TPMS Relearn Reset Sensor Activation Tool
- 6. Easiest TPMS Tool to Use: JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool
- 7. Best Simple TPMS Tool: Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool
- 8. Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool
- 9. Best Waterproof TPMS Tool: JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool
- 10. Best Compact TPMS Tool: TPMS Relearn Tool
- Everything You Need to Know About TPMS Tools
- TPMS Tool FAQ
- Final Thoughts
Things to Consider When Shopping for TPMS Tools
TPMS tools are simple to use, but you have to choose the right one. The wrong TPMS tool won’t help, and you’ll end up wasting your money, especially if it’s not the right tool for your make and model. When you’re shopping for the best TPMS tool, you have to consider the make of a vehicle, the vehicle type, and the span of years it works.
Manufacturer
We’ll start with the vehicle’s make, which is the manufacturer. In the automotive industry, there are dozens of manufacturers. When shopping for a TPMS tool, you need to make sure it’s compatible with the make of your vehicle. Otherwise, it won’t work, or it can give you false readings. Typically, vehicles from Asian manufacturers have automatic tire pressure systems, but most American brands like Ford and General Motors require a relearn after rotations.
Years
Next, you’ll want to look for the years a TPMS tool works for. Even if a TPMS tool works for all Ford vehicles, it might not work for every year. For example, a TPMS tool might work on all Ford vehicles between 2006 and 2019. Some products work for more years, and some for less; make sure the years line up with the model year of your vehicle.
Vehicle Type
Another factor to consider is the type of vehicle you have. In this case, you want to focus on whether your car is a passenger car, light truck, or heavy truck. Every vehicle type requires unique tire pressure levels, so the TPMS tool has to account for that. While some TPMS tools work for every vehicle, this isn’t always the case.
Price
TPMS tools are typically similar in price. Still, there are a few exceptions. Some TPMS tools offer additional services or work for multiple vehicle manufacturers, which drives the price up. To keep it simple, we’ve grouped each TPMS tool into one of three categories:
$: Around $10
$$: Around $20
$$$: Around $150
Keeping all of this in mind, it should be easier to narrow down your options. Read on to discover the ten best TPMS tools.
| Product | Price | Manufacturer | Years | Vehicle type | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool | $$ | Ford, General Motors | 2006-2019 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 5 |
| VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor | $ | General Motors | 2006-2019 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 5 |
| VXSCAN Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor Relearn | $ | General Motors | 2010-2018 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 5 |
| Autel TPMS Relearn Tool | $$$ | Ford, Toyota, Nissan, General Motors | N/A | Passenger cars, light trucks, heavy trucks | 5 |
| Greyghost TPMS Relearn Reset Sensor Activation Tool | $ | General Motors | 2006-2020 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 4.5 |
| JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool | $ | General Motors | 2006-2020 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 4 |
| Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool | $ | General Motors, Nissan (Frontier model) | 2006-2019 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 4 |
| Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool | $ | General Motors | 2006-2020 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 4 |
| JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool | $ | Ford | 2007-2020 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 4 |
| TPMS Relearn Tool | $ | General Motors | 2006-2019 | Passenger cars, light trucks | 3.5 |
Top 10 Best TPMS Tools 2024
1. Best Overall TPMS Tool: JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Manufacturer: Ford, General Motors
- Years: 2006-2019
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great 2-in-1 product. It works for Ford and GM vehicles, dating back to 2006. It also comes with many features that make it simple to use. There is an LED light that notifies you of the battery life, a tool for resetting keypads, and it shows you when it’s working with an orange light. Overall, it’s a simple and effective product.
What Sets It Apart
The JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is unique because it works for Ford and General Motors vehicles. Most TPMS tools focus on Ford or GM, but this one does both. It also includes many makes and models across both manufacturers, so it’s not limited in performance.
Things to Consider
The JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great product, but it’s not perfect. While it works for Ford and GM vehicles, it doesn’t work for other brands. For example, if you have an older Toyota or Nissan, this tool won’t work. If you’re looking for a TPMS tool that works for even more vehicles, the Autel TPMS Relearn Tool is a great choice. While it’s expensive, it works for 98% of vehicles.
Who It’s For
The JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is an excellent choice if you own a Ford and GM vehicle. You can relearn the tire pressure for both manufacturers, and it doesn’t marry itself to one vehicle. This means that you can use it on different vehicles, so it’s a great 2-in-1 product.
Pros
- Works for Ford and GM vehicles
- Doesn't marry to one vehicle
- Affordable
Cons
- Doesn't work for every vehicle manufacturer
2. Best Budget TPMS Tool: VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors
- Years: 2006-2019
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor is a simple TPMS tool that works for vehicles manufactured by General Motors. The device runs on nine-volt batteries and resets your vehicle’s tire pressure sensor after tire rotations. There are also some quality of life features, including an LED indicator for low battery, an LED indicator for when tire pressure is reset, and a tool for controlling remote door locks.
What Sets It Apart
This TPMS tool is unique because it’s one of the most well-rounded products. While it only works for vehicles manufactured by General Motors, it’s affordable and easy to use. With its low cost, it can also perform similar tasks to high-end products.
Things to Consider
This is an excellent TPMS tool, but only if you own a vehicle from General Motors. If you drive something like a Ford or Toyota, you can’t use this tool. If you own a Ford, the JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool is a great alternative. It performs many of the same tasks but works for most Ford production vehicles, including light trucks.
Who It’s For
If you have a vehicle made by General Motors, the VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor is a great tool to have at your disposal. After tire rotations, tire changes, or even blowouts, this product can reset your vehicle’s system for the proper tire pressure. Everyone with a General Motors vehicle can benefit from this product.
Pros
- Works for resenting door locks
- Works in most General Motors vehicles
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Only suitable for modern General Motors vehicles
3. VXSCAN Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor Relearn
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors
- Years: 2010-2018
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor is well-made and efficient for most GM vehicles. It performs multiple tasks, like retesting tire pressure computers and resetting keypads. While it’s similar to most products that work for GM series vehicles, it’s more accurate on average for model years between 2010 and 2018.
What Sets It Apart
This product is unique because of its accuracy and compatibility. When used on GM vehicles made between 2010 and 2018, it has the best results. It works quickly, resets computers with accuracy. Furthermore, it’s one of the best TPMS tools for changing out winter and summer tires.
Things to Consider
One of the problems with this product is the lack of vehicles it works for. While it covers most GM makes and models, it only works for vehicles manufactured between 2010 and 2018. If you like the design of VXSCAN tools, but have a GM vehicle out of that range, the VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor is an excellent choice if you have a GM vehicle manufactured between 2010 and 2018. For these model years, it’s one of the most accurate TPMS tools around. In fact, it outperforms products that have a more extensive range of makes of models because of fine-tuning.
Pros
- Very accurate on vehicles between 2010-2018
- Simple and straightforward to use
- Fits in one hand
Cons
- Doesn't come with batteries
- Only suitable for a limited number of vehicles
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Manufacturer: Ford, Toyota, Nissan, General Motors
- Years: N/A
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks, heavy trucks
The Autel TPMS Relearn Tool is a high-end tool that works for almost every vehicle. It can relearn tire pressures in Fords, GMs, Toyotas, and more. Furthermore, it works across multiple model years. For example, it works for Ford vehicles dating back to the early 2000s. It also comes with tools to monitor sensor frequencies, battery health, tire temperature, and sensor identifications.
What Sets It Apart
This TPMS tool is unique because it does it all. Compared to other TPMS tools, it does more tasks and works across more makes and models. Some other notable features include multiple input modes. For example, you can manually input or use auto-create for sensor IDs.
Things to Consider
This is a great product, but there is one disadvantage. That disadvantage is the price. Compared to other TPMS tools, this product is more expensive. You get what you pay for, but some of these features are only relevant for niche shoppers or people that work in automotive repair shops.
If you’re looking for a simple TPMS tool, the JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great choice. It works for Ford and GM vehicles, and it’s budget-friendly.
Who It’s For
If you work as a mechanic, own a repair shop, or consider yourself an automotive enthusiast, the Autel TPMS Relearn Tool is a great choice. While it works well as a TPMS tool, it also performs numerous vital tasks for general Maintainance. For these reasons, it’s an excellent choice for people that work in the automotive industry.
Pros
- Works across 98% of vehicle brands
- Checks battery health and resets keypads
- Works for most vehicle types, including heavy trucks
Cons
- Very expensive
5. TPMS Tool With the Best Warranty: Greyghost TPMS Relearn Reset Sensor Activation Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors
- Years: 2006-2020
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The Greyghost Orange TPMS Relearn Reset Sensor Activation Tool is a straightforward product that works for most GM vehicles. It runs on nine-volt batteries and works for vehicles manufactured between 2006 and 2020. Furthermore, it doesn’t marry to one vehicle so that you can use it multiple times on a handful of vehicles in your fleet. It also features LED indicators that let you know when it’s working, and it performs its task quickly.
What Sets It Apart
Compared to other TPMS tools, the Greyghost Orange TPMS Relearn Reset Sensor Activation Tool is unique because of the 12-month guarantee the manufacturer offers. When shopping for an inexpensive device, knowing that the manufacturer will handle any problems within the first years gives buyers confidence. This is something we love to see, especially in a TPMS tool. This product is also unique because it works on heavy trucks, which is difficult to find in TPMS tools.
Things to Consider
This product performs as advertised, but it only works for GM vehicles. If you have a vehicle from a different manufacturer, like Ford, you’ll need a separate TPMS tool. A great product that works for multiple manufacturers is the JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great alternative because it works for both Ford and GM vehicles.
Who It’s For
If you have a GM and need a simple TPMS tool, the Greyghost Orange TPMS Relearn Reset Sensor Activation Tool is one of your best options. It’s similar to most TPMS tools for GM vehicles, but it’s one of the most affordable, even if it’s only less expensive by a few bucks. If you’re looking for the best budget option, this is it.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Works for GM light trucks, passenger cars, and even heavy trucks
- Comes with a 12-month warranty
Cons
- Only works on GM vehicles
- Not many unique features
6. Easiest TPMS Tool to Use: JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors
- Years: 2006-2020
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool is like most TPMS tools. It works for almost every GM vehicle manufactured between 2006 and 2019, with the updated model working for GM’s 2020 lineup. It runs on one nine-volt battery and comes with features that make it simple to use. Some features include an LED light for low battery, an LED light that lets you know when it’s working and works with the click of a button.
What Sets It Apart
The JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool is unique because of its antenna. Most TPMS tools need to be held a certain way to yield the best results. While this also applies to this TPMS tool, you have more room for error thanks to the wider range. This gives you the ability to work more comfortably.
Things to Consider
This TPMS tool works well, but has a disadvantage in its battery life. While it runs on nine-volt batteries, like most TPMS tools, it doesn’t have a long battery life. If you’ll be using a TPMS tool frequently, the Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is a great alternative. It runs on the same battery but lasts longer than this TPMS tool.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a simple product for a GM vehicle, the JDIAG TPMS Relearn Tool is a great choice. You don’t need any skills or steady hands to use it because the antenna gives you room for error. This makes this product useful for working on the go or in high-stress situations like changing a tire on the side of the road.
Pros
- Simple and straightforward
- The antenna leaves room for error
- Comes with LED indicators for battery life and to indicate the tool is working
- Fits in one hand
Cons
- Short battery life
- Only suitable for GM vehicles
7. Best Simple TPMS Tool: Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors, Nissan (Frontier model)
- Years: 2006-2019
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is a simple and efficient product. It’s compact, can be used in one hand, and offers multiple features. While it can relearn tire pressure settings, it can also read tire pressure level and the temperature of air within a tire. This tool also has a decent battery life and LED indicator lights that show low battery and when the device is working correctly.
What Sets It Apart
The Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is unique because it gives an accurate reading and diagnosis quickly. It can work with a vehicle’s computer in less than two minutes, which is rare in most TPMS tools. Furthermore, it fits more comfortably in your hand than similar TPMS tools.
Things to Consider
While the Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool comes with everything you need to reset your tire pressure system, it doesn’t come with additional features. One example is the lack of keypad reset functionality. Most TPMS tools, like the VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor, come with this feature, and it’s handy to have.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a basic TPMS tool that only does one thing, the Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is one of the best choices. While it doesn’t come with flashy features, sometimes simple is better. Plus, sometimes you want a simple tire pressure reset and don’t want to waste time cycling through numerous settings. For these reasons, the Arozk TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is one of the most straightforward options.
Pros
- Simple and easy to use
- Gives accurate readings in less than 2 minutes
- Performs temperature readings
Cons
- Only works for GM vehicles
- Doesn't include a keypad reset feature
8. Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors
- Years: 2006-2020
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is a great product that works for most GM vehicles. It also works for newer vehicles made in 2020. The Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is also well-made and easy to work with. There is a simple button you need to press, and there are LED indicators to let you know when the tool is working or if the battery is low. This product is also comfortable to hold in your hand and a high-end antenna that leaves room for error.
What Sets It Apart
This TPMS tool is unique because of the plastic and circuitry it’s made with. It feels light in your hand, but the plastic and circuitry are durable. It’s one of the more budget-friendly options, but it performs as well as more expensive TPMS tools. It also works for 2020 vehicles, which is rare to see.
Things to Consider
The Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is a great product, but it has its limits. It only works with GM vehicles and doesn’t always feel great in your hand. Furthermore, the antenna doesn’t always work properly unless you hold it at 90 degrees.
If you’re looking for a product that works for more vehicles and feels better in your hand, the JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great alternative. It fits nicely in your hand and works for GM and Ford vehicles.
Who It’s For
If you need a TPMS tool for a new GM car or pickup truck, the Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool is one of the best fits. It’s one of the few TPMS tools that works for modern vehicles. It’s also reliable enough to last you a few years, so you don’t have to worry about getting an upgrade.
Pros
- Works for 2020 vehicles
- Made with great plastic and circuitry
- Features LED indicators
Cons
- Only suitable for GM vehicles
- Not the most comfortable TPMS tool to use
9. Best Waterproof TPMS Tool: JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: Ford
- Years: 2007-2020
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool is an excellent product for Ford vehicles. It works on most makes and models, from 2006 through 2020. This means that it also works on the newest vehicles from Ford’s lineup. It’s also small and portable.
Unlike other TPMS tools, it fits in your pocket and doesn’t rely on an antenna that’s on the top. This makes it one of the most comfortable TPMS tools to hold in your hand. There is also an LED light indicator that lets you know when the tool is working.
What Sets It Apart
The JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool is unique because it works for 2020 year Fords and comes with a waterproof design. It fits in your pocket, and even if it gets wet, you don’t have to worry about breaking it. This makes it a great tool to use if you’re outdoors often and live in a humid climate. It’s also helpful for working around a damaged tire pressure sensor, which helps you avoid spending money on replacement parts.
Things to Consider
While the JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool works well, it’s not like other TPMS tools. This is a good thing in some cases, like the waterproof design, but the antenna isn’t on the outside of the device. This makes it difficult to get an accurate reading. Furthermore, it’s only a good fit for Ford vehicles.
If you’re looking for a more traditional TPMS tool for Ford vehicles, the JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
If you have a new Ford vehicle, made in 2020, the JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool is one of the best options. It features a waterproof design you can’t find anywhere else, and it works well for modern Ford vehicles. Still, you can use it on any Ford models dating back to the early 2000s.
Pros
- Works for 2020 year vehicles
- Waterproof design
- Comes with an LED indicator light
Cons
- Only works for Ford vehicles
- The antenna isn't very accurate
10. Best Compact TPMS Tool: TPMS Relearn Tool
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Manufacturer: General Motors
- Years: 2006-2019
- Vehicle type: Passenger cars, light trucks
The TPMS Relearn Tool is a simple and straightforward product. It has a simple design and works like most other products on the list. It runs on nine-volt batteries, comes in a green finish, and offers decent performance. Furthermore, it features LED lights for battery life and to let you know the tool is functioning. This TPMS tool also comes with a good antenna that gives you room for error and works for most General Motors vehicles.
What Sets It Apart
This tool isn’t the most unique, but its small size makes it easy to hold and operate with one hand. The difference is slight compared to other products, but more comfort is always a blessing. Furthermore, the antenna gives you room for error, so you don’t need to remain in the same position for too long.
Things to Consider
The TPMS Relearn Tool is an excellent product for the price, but it’s made with cheap materials. This makes it feel flimsy in your hand. Even with the manufacturer warranty, reviews suggest that this tool doesn’t last long. If you are using a TPMS tool often, we recommend an alternative like the Autokcan TPMS Relearn Reset Tool.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a cheap TPMS tool to use a few times, the TPMS Relearn Tool is a great choice. While it doesn’t last long, the low price makes it an excellent option for people that don’t need a complicated TPMS tool.
Pros
- Simple to use with the click of a button
- Budget-friendly
- Small and comfortable to work with
Cons
- Made with cheap plastic
- Only suitable for General Motors vehicles
- Not designed for 2020 models
Everything You Need to Know About TPMS Tools
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 11,000 injuries and 738 fatalities caused by inadequate tire pressure. Most vehicles have computers that display tire pressure and notify you when tire pressure is low, but if the computer is giving you the wrong reading, it becomes dangerous. To remain safe on the road, you need to check your tire pressure often and ensure it’s an accurate reading. The best way to do so is with a TPSM tool.
Unfortunately, TPMS tools are challenging to shop for. This is because most vehicles have specific tire pressure systems that are based on computers and circuitry. While this makes it challenging to shop for TPMS tools, we’re here to help. We’re going to take you through a handful of shopping tips, the proper method for using TPMS tools, make recommendations, and answer any questions you might have.
Choosing a TPMS Tool for Your Vehicle
TPMS tools are simple to shop for when you know what to look for. Luckily, all you need to know is your vehicle’s make and model. Every product comes with a list of vehicles it works for, so make sure you reference that before making a decision. Still, to make this hassle-free, we have a few products to start with.
Ford
Some Ford vehicles have computers that relearn tire pressure themselves, but this isn’t the case for every make and model. If you have a Ford vehicle between 2006-2020, you need a TPMS tool that works for those Ford makes and models.
There are a few choices, but our favorite is the JDIAG TPMS Sensor Tool. It’s waterproof, works for all makes and models between 2006-2020. While some options work well, this product has a leg up because it works on 2020 models.
General Motors
General Motors is notorious for making vehicles that need TPMS tools to help computers relearn. This isn’t a design flaw; it’s just the way that GM manufactures its vehicles. If you have a GM vehicle having a TPMS tool is a great way to save money during tire changes or tire rotations.
Our favorite TPMS tool for GM vehicles is the VXDAS Auto Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor. It works for most makes and models, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s simple to use.
Ford and General Motors
Some people have more than one vehicle in their lineup. If you happen to own Ford and GM vehicles, having a TPMS tool that works for both saves you time and money. While your options are limited, the JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super is a great choice. It works for both manufacturers, and it’s not too expensive.
Other Manufacturers
Most of the common TPMS tools on the market focus on Ford and GM. If you drive a Nissan or Toyota, your best choice is the premium Autel TPMS Relearn Tool, which is compatible with more makes and models than any other product available.
How to Use a TPMS Tool
Getting your hands on a TPMS tool is only half of the battle. Learning how to use one takes time and practice, but it’s not impossible, and you don’t need to be a trained technician. We’re going to take you through some tips to help you use a TPMS tool.
Putting Your Vehicle in TPMS Mode
Putting your vehicle in TPMS mode is simple, even across multiple manufacturers. It all starts with putting your car in park and turning the battery on. Then, use the menu on your steering wheel to select the TPMS mode. For most vehicles, this is found under the settings. If you’re having trouble finding it, always consult your owner’s manual. You can also check out this video if you’re having trouble.
Once you activate the setting, your vehicle’s horn will honk two times. An LED light will appear on your vehicle’s dashboard, starting with the front left tire. At this point, your vehicle is in TPMS mode, and you’re ready to begin using your new TPMS tool.
Using a TPMS Tool
Using a TPMS tool is simple and easy to use once your vehicle is in TPMS mode. The process is similar for most products, but for this example, we’ll use the JDIAG 2-in-1 TPMS Return Tool Super because it works for Ford and GM vehicles.
First and foremost, you have to put your vehicle in TPMS mode. When you hear the horn honk twice, you’re all set. From there, make sure you start with the front left tire. Hold the TPMS tool next to the valve. For most products, it’s best to hold it at a 90-degree angle so that the antenna can give you an accurate reading.
Once you hear your vehicle’s horn honk one time, you’re ready to move on to the next one. The proper order to follow is front right, front left, back right, and rear left. Your vehicle’s horn will honk twice once every tire has been reset, and the system has completed the relearning process.
TPMS Tool FAQ
Can a General Motors TPMS Tool Work on a Ford or Vice Versa?
In most cases, you shouldn’t use a TPMS tool that’s not designed for your manufacturer. Still, there are some exceptions. Some manufacturers create TPMS tools that work for both manufacturers and even European and Asian manufacturers. Unfortunately, you have to spend some time reading the makes and models a product covers to know if the tool you’re looking at is the right fit.
When Do You Need a TPMS Tool?
TPMS tools are useful for many applications. First and foremost, it’s great to have when you rotate your tires. Rotating your tires tricks your vehicle’s tire pressure system, so it needs to relearn where each tire is. Another use for TPMS tools is changing a tire. If you add a new tire into the mix, you’ll have to use a TPMS tool to teach the computer.
Do All Vehicles Need a TPMS Tool?
Most vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems that are adaptive. This means that the vehicles don’t need to relearn the position or type of tire to give you an accurate pressure reading. Typically, this applies to European or Asian vehicles. For most American manufacturers, excluding Dodge, TPMS tools are required to help the computer relearn the position or type of tire to deliver an accurate reading.
Final Thoughts
TPMS tools are challenging to shop for. This is because many different options work for various makes and models. Luckily, with this guide, finding the best TPMS tool is hassle-free. Plus, TPMS tools are inexpensive, so it’s okay to experiment with a few different options.
Still, make sure you shop carefully. Check every product to ensure it works for your make and model. Most products have every make and model it works for listed and the manufacturing years, so the information is accessible. Furthermore, some products offer lists of vehicles that shoppers have tested the product on. So, if you’re always mindful of what you need from a TPMS tool, finding the best product is a breeze.
Be sure to check out our guide to the best tire repair kits, too, so that you can fix any problems you find with your new TPMS tool.
