Aug. 18, 2025
This page is dedicated to all thing TPMS. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems can be a little intimidating. There are low-line and high-line systems. Configurable and programmable sensors. And what the heck is protocol? Never fear, Izzy, your TPMS tutor is here to break it all down for you.
foxwell contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
Whether you’re a professional tire technician or a backyard mechanic, we are confident you’ll have some great takeaways from our TPMS video series.
We recommend you start with the “TPMS Terminology” video and then work your way through the rest of the videos below. Enjoy!
If your vehicle is already equipped with a TPMS then you need to establish whether it is a direct or indirect system. In case that your vehicle is equipped with an indirect TPMS then you can purchase your wheels as per usual as this will not affect your TPMS.
If your TPMS is a direct system then you should look for the following when purchasing wheels:
1. Does the wheel design of your choice fulfil all requirements for fitting a TPMS sensor?
2. Due to the complex technology of the TPMS, we recommend to use a specialist dealer. They have the relevant special tools and programming equipment for changing tyres, maintenance work and for any other problems (e.g. warning on the display)!
All ALCAR wheels have already been prepared to accommodate the necessary wireless sensors (direct TPMS) and the relevant information have been recorded in TÜV certificates since the beginning of .
TECHNICAL DETAILS AND EFFECTS OF TPMS ON MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
What are the differences between a direct and an indirect system?
A direct system measures the tyre pressure via a sensor integrated in the wheel. This information is wirelessly transferred to a control device in the vehicle. Various displays of individual vehicle manufacturers enable the driver to read the current pressure values permanently or to receive just a warning when the tyre pressure is too low. Such systems are very precise since they directly monitor the pressure for each wheel.
How does an indirect TPMS work?
In an indirect system, the vehicle integrated ABS and traction sensors monitor individual wheel rotational speeds. Differences would occur if a pressure drop in the tires appears. In addition, pressure-dependent oscillations of the wheels are measured through advanced signal processing. A change will be considered a further indication of a loss of pressure.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of these systems?
A direct TPMS allows for a very precise data collection and has additional functions like tyre position recognition, pressure loss detection when the vehicle is stationary and monitoring the tyre pressure of the spare wheel. A direct TPMS requires a significant extra effort and expenditure when changing tyres and during maintenance work. All tyres (summer, winter, spare) of a vehicle must be equipped with a properly working sensor.
An indirect TPMS is not as precise in its functionality since it neither measures the tyre pressure nor the tyre temperature. Also, it does not detect loss of pressure on the tyres when the vehicle is stationary. However, the system is far easier to maintain and less costly since wheel sensors are not used.
What effects have TPM systems on maintenance and service?
The use of TPMS when driving and maintaining a vehicle poses new challenges for the driver and workshops alike: The vehicle owner will not be able to simply change a tyre by himself but will need the help of a specially qualified dealer in order to fit, calibrate and check the sensor of wheels with a direct TPMS. Due to the EU-wide introduction of this technology, specialist dealers will train their staff and invest in the required equipment.
Can I fit tyres with direct TPMS myself?
Tyre mounting is a safety-relevant issue and requires expertise (check of a condition of the tire, use the correct tightening torque, ...). Therefore, we recommend this principle to only be carried out by a specialist dealer.
Direct TPMS systems also bring the following new technical requirements:
- The need for maintenance of the valve and the gaskets with every wheel removal to prevent wear of the sensor
- For new tyres: new configuration of the sensors to the vehicle when new sensors (new sensor ID) are used or amending the wheel position of the sensors in order to ensure the clear communication between sensor and TPMS receiver
- The battery level of the sensors must be checked when changing tyres
My vehicle is not equipped with a TPMS. Do I now need to get a TPMS fitted?
Vehicles which are subject to the compulsory fitting of a TPMS will already be equipped with a direct or indirect TPMS by the vehicle manufacturer as otherwise the vehicle will not be given a type approval and/or certification in any of the EU member states.
A subsequent installation of a TPMS is not mandatory.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Universal Programmable TPMS Sensor supplier. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
TPMS – FOUR LETTERS - ONE SOLUTION: ALCAR!
ALCAR offers a customized industry solution: In addition to the sensors, fitting tools, diagnostic and programming devices, service and spare parts kits as well as comprehensive advice are provided for all customers and partners at the same time. ALCAR also offers its customers optimum digital TPMS support in the webshop with the new TPMS configurator. Sensor or service kit assignments etc. are also available for download and quick printing in the members area. This enables ALCAR to solve the most common problems, e.g. which sensor belongs to which vehicle and what is the respective teach-in procedure, quickly and easily online.
Complex challenges - simple solutions
In addition to the new sensors, a new high-performance device has also been
developed with BARTEC, the world's leading manufacturer of TPMS diagnostic
devices. With the ALCAR TECH600, a comprehensive diagnostic and programming
device including many extras is now available to specialist dealers.
The new ALCAR TECH600 includes a color display, WIFI, Bluetooth OBDII,
wireless charging and a robust ergonomic housing. With improved navigation, numerous menu languages, live updates via WIFI and extensive options for OBD analysis, the new tool makes everyday workshop work easier. It also
features automatic sensor recognition, multi-programming, ERP integration
and an extensive database for teach-in procedures, as well as a three-year
license term. A unique ALCAR upgrade special offers every specialist workshop
full coverage of the most important sensor manufacturers worldwide.
The ALCAR CONNEX system is a cloud-based data management system to which the ALCAR TPMS diagnostic tool are connected via Wi-Fi. For example, with the TECH600, you can capture all TPMS, fitted units, vehicle, and order data and transmit them via Wi-Fi to ALCAR CONNEX.
Thanks to our numerous interfaces, we are integrated with the leading Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and can transfer your data to the desired system. Moreover, we also offer this service for the leading fleet management systems as well as completely customised dashboards and enterprise solutions for your business.
Use ALCAR CONNEX to digitise your entire TPMS and fitted units processes in the workshop. Transform yourself and your colleagues into a paperless, digital, and sustainable workshop.
The tool transmits data online, and this information is stored in ALCAR CONNEX in real time.
Information – such as a weak TPMS battery or worn tyre tread – can be printed on the invoice for the end customer. For example, from the ERP software, a tyre dealer can download data at the click of a button, as the information is automatically available in the system.
Are you interested in learning more about TPMS Sensor Tool OEM? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
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