TPMS BS from NTB?

[TxRoadHawg]

My TPMS light has been on steady since I got the vehicle 6 months ago. I didn’t think I had sensors at all since I have black rubber valve stems. I went thru the usual depressure/refill all 5 tires several times and the light never cleared.
Today I got new tires and wheels (they look great by the way) and confirmed no sensors. I told the guy at NTB to go ahead and replace with new sensors. Then the service manager says my year model never had sensors in the wheel, but that it works thru the ABS somehow. I called BS several times (nicely of course) and had him call Toyota to confirm, which he appeared to do. I did tell them that if the TPMS did not reset that I would be back for free installation of new sensors.
I’ve done quite a bit of research on the subject and this was the first time I heard this line. I have an early 2004 model Limited with aluminum wheels. I was thinking of just bypassing the light but if I can get them to work I probably should just for the wives sake.
Any experts out there know about this early model oversight?

 

[IndigoPlateau]

If I were you, I would call a Toyota dealership tomorrow, and tell them you want a price on all 4 TPMS sensors. Provide them with your VIN, and see what they say. Cut out the middle man and confirm for yourself. If they say that the vehicle isn't equipped with sensors, try to speak with a service adviser and ask them for a run down on how it works.

 

[MrTom]

Here is a TSB for you:
http://www.toyotapart.com/DIRECT_TIRE_PRESSURE_WARNING_SYSTEM_T-PG001-04.pdf
PG001-04
"DIRECT TIRE PRESSURE WARNING SYSTEM
Models:
’04 – ’07 4Runner
INTRODUCTION A direct Tire Pressure Warning System (TPWS) is now standard equipment on all
2004 – 2007 model year 4Runner vehicles.
A tire pressure sensor (or tire pressure monitor) is attached to each wheel directly
sensing the air pressure of each tire. The Tire Pressure Warning System detects the
pressure of each tire, including the spare tire, and illuminates a Tire Pressure Warning
Light ( ! ) to inform the driver of low tire pressure.
Each pressure sensor has a unique ID number........"
Diagram of sensor is on PAGE 4 of TSB.

Link to 2004 Owners manual if you do not have one.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/41015-owners-manual-pdf.html
Toyota called it a Tire Pressure Warning System in 2004 .

This site explains what they tried to pass off to you, an Indirect ABS system. The Toyota TSB indicates a DIRECT system and as mentioned shows how to find the id of each sensor.
What you need to know about TPMS

Suggestion to get part number and price for your VIN is excellent...

.

 

[TxRoadHawg]

thats great MrTom
thanks