Aftermarket TPMS and Techstream Software

[slyfox75]

Alright, I've searched but no concrete info that I've come across.

I have the Techstream software and I can hook up and see my TPMS just fine. My 2005 sensors are now down to 3/5 working due to batteries....I'm ready to do mass replacement of all 5.(not interested in the disable light mod, black tape over light, etc

My understanding is that the techstream will not "find" new TPMS RF ID codes? You must know the RF IDs from being printed on the side of the TPMS unit(the Pacific branded ones are like this for sure). I see pics of aftermarket units and they don't seem to have the RF IDs printed on them.....thus I would need a RF reader/TPMS tool to "see" the codes?(read trip to dealer and $$$$)

I'd rather get aftermarket TPMS sensors(cheaper) WITH the RF ID printed on them or come with them in the box. Then I can then program using Techstream software to the TPMS ECU. No delaer, tire guy, etc involved.

Anyone have experience with this? Am i way off track? Good/Bad experiences with aftermarket sensors?

Thanks!

 

[stanleybb50]

Can't help with your specific question, but just noting that NTB did my reset for $19.99. I was quite pleased I didn't have to go to the dealer.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I don't know what brands will have the RFIDs printed on them. But you are correct, the TIS Techstream needs you to manually input the RFIDs into the system for them to be registered. There are two ways this can be done, one is by looking at the TPMS and finding what the label says, the second is by using a handheld RFID scanner (you can get various versions of these from parts stores and tool suppliers) and having it scan for the code.

Either way you need a TPMS capable scantool or dedicated TPMS tool to program the new TPMS units.

 

[stevec5000]

From what I've read, aftermarket TPMS sensors are programmable and you don't use Techstream at all. They way they are installed is you read out the data from the old one with a hand held scanner then program that into the new one so it looks the same as the old one when you are finished. I'm not sure what you do if the old one is broken or has a dead battery and won't respond to the scanner though.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

From what I've read, aftermarket TPMS sensors are programmable and you don't use Techstream at all. They way they are installed is you read out the data from the old one with a hand held scanner then program that into the new one so it looks the same as the old one when you are finished. I'm not sure what you do if the old one is broken or has a dead battery and won't respond to the scanner though.

Interesting, this is news to me. Makes sense though so I don't see why it wouldn't work. I assume they gouge you on the reprogrammer though.

 

[slyfox75]

Well, I took the plunge after posting a few days ago about this.
Ordered 5 sensors from americantpms.com
I think they were $40 a pc, free shipping. They are the Pacific branded(OEM) sensors. The 7 digit apha-numeric code is printed visably on each sensor. I fired up Techstream and put them right in with no problems. They are not in the wheels yet tho I plan on having that done in the next few days. The interesting thing is.....of the 5 I ordered, there are 3 different variations....all Pacific, all Made in Japan. One actually came wrapped up in bubble wrap w the red n white toyota part number and barcode on it. Just thought I'd share for anyone else in same situation as me.

 

[honda_nos]

When I ordered my wheels and tires from Discount Tire Direct, they were thoughtful enough to place the labels (with the ID) on the inside of the wheel so that I could write them down.

In the end I went to a brick and mortar Discount and they just set it up for me with their tool. They didn't need the numbers (was able to wirelessly scan it)

 

[stevec5000]

I wonder if it's possible to deflate the tire, break the bead loose and push the side of the tire in far enough to replace them or do you have to remove the tire to get them on?

 

[stanleybb50]

I wonder if it's possible to deflate the tire, break the bead loose and push the side of the tire in far enough to replace them or do you have to remove the tire to get them on?

110% possible. I didn't think it was but NTB did it on one of mine, and did not throw the balance off at all either.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

That's actually how we replace them, no need to even take the tire off.

 

[lunchindabox]

My experience: I used the ebay techstream software and it found them and programmed them. I didn't have to type in the ID numbers or anything. The shop mounted/balanced the tires and swapped over the sensors but didn't program them.
They were sensors from my 06 Tacoma going into my 04 4runner.

 

[RCs4Runner]

My experience: I used the ebay techstream software

Pirated software = no bueno holmes! :spy: