Programming and training tyre pressure sensors

The HELLA universal tyre pressure monitoring sensor can be fitted on almost all original and accessory rims. If necessary, the sensors can also be replaced individually and combined with other original sensors. The universal tyre pressure sensors can be ordered in the valve stem finishes of rubber, aluminium silver or aluminium black.

The TPMS sensor sends its measured values by radio to the higher-level system control unit. In the event of a loss of pressure on a tyre, a warning message is issued visually or acoustically via the vehicle display. The driver is warned at an early stage and can therefore avoid further damage to the vehicle and/or prevent potentially dangerous situations.

Prior to installation, the universal tyre pressure monitoring sensor must be adjusted to suit the vehicle in question by means of a suitable diagnostic unit. It is not possible to use the sensors without such coordination first having taken place.

Before the new sensors, for example for the winter wheels, are installed and the wheels are fitted, the function of the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) should be checked as part of an initial diagnosis. Depending on the vehicle model, this can be done via the on-board computer or also via the control unit diagnosis.

The first diagnosis is usually carried out when the vehicle first enters the workshop. If the TPMS warning lamp in the dashboard goes out after the engine has been started and remains off while the car is being driven, it can usually be assumed that all sensors are transmitting their values to the control unit. In order to ensure that everything works properly after the conversion, the error memory should be read out.

Another test option is to read out the TPMS sensors using a TPMS diagnostic unit. It is possible in many service units to select the function called "Check sensor". In this function, the unit is held with the antenna against the side of the tyre at the height of the valve and the trigger pulse is released by pressing a button. The unit triggers the sensor and the values are shown on the display. The ID code, tyre pressure, frequency, temperature and battery status of the sensor can then be read.

The function of the TPMS warning lamp in the instrument cluster is subsequently checked. After the engine has been started, the control lamp should then not light up or flash. A permanently lit control lamp usually signals faulty tyre pressure. A control lamp which is first flashing and then permanently lit means that a component of the TPMS system is faulty.

Getting the right spare part is essential for the repair. Because of the variety of models and spare parts, an exact allocation of the spare part is only possible on the basis of the relevant vehicle data from the vehicle registration document. If this is available, the appropriate spare parts can be located in the electronic parts catalogue or, depending on the manufacturer, in the TPMS diagnostic unit. This ensures that the tyre pressure monitoring sensor is mounted, configured and then recognised by the TPMS system as required.

The sensor ID of the new, universal TPMS sensor can be newly created or transferred (copied) from another sensor. However, if four wheel sensors are required for a new set of winter tyres, as shown below, the data from the old sensors from the summer tyres/wheels can be transferred to the new sensors. The sensors can therefore be programmed before they are installed in the rim, a procedure carried out wirelessly via radio using a TPMS programming device.
It is important that the new sensors are marked accordingly as regards their location and then later mounted in the correct axle position.

Before the configuration of the sensors can begin, the manufacturer and type of the TPMS sensor and also the appropriate vehicle data must all be entered after selection of the required function.