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How do I find my TPMS sensor ID?

The TPMS sensor ID is the unique code assigned to each tire’s pressure sensor. In most cars you’ll find it with a TPMS diagnostic tool or by viewing the vehicle’s TPMS screen, and you can also read it from the sensor itself if you’re changing hardware.

What is a TPMS sensor ID?

Direct TPMS (DTPMS) uses a physical sensor mounted in each wheel to measure air pressure; indirect TPMS relies on wheel-speed data to infer low pressure. Each direct sensor stores a unique ID that the car’s computer uses to monitor that specific tire. The ID is tied to the VIN and the wheel position, and it’s required when you replace sensors or perform a relearn. Depending on your vehicle, the ID can be viewed on-screen, retrieved with a tool, or read from the sensor itself once the wheel is removed.

Where to find the ID

In the vehicle using the TPMS display or service menus

Many newer cars show sensor IDs on the instrument cluster or a dedicated TPMS or tire-service menu. If your model supports it, navigate to Tires or TPMS to view the IDs for each wheel. Availability varies by make and model, and some vehicles may only show pressure readings until you perform a relearn.

With a TPMS diagnostic tool

The most reliable method for most vehicles is a dedicated TPMS tool. These devices read the IDs from the car’s ECU or directly from each sensor, then display the tire positions and IDs. This approach is essential when replacing sensors or performing a relearn. Here’s how to use it:

To retrieve IDs with a scanner, follow these steps:

Turn on the ignition and ensure the vehicle is in park with the parking brake engaged (engine off in most cases).

Connect the TPMS tool to the vehicle’s OBD-II port or to the sensor’s read connector, depending on the tool and car model.

Select the TPMS or Tire Sensor Read option in the tool’s menu.

Scan each wheel to display the tire position and its sensor ID; record the IDs for each wheel (and note the current position if you’re rotating tires).

If your goal is to replace or relearn sensors, use the tool’s relearn/learn procedure to associate the IDs with the correct wheel positions in the car’s computer.

Using a TPMS tool often provides the quickest and most accurate way to capture sensor IDs, especially on vehicles that don’t display the IDs in their dashboards.

What if I can’t access the ID?

If you're unable to retrieve the ID from the dashboard or with a tool, the ID is usually printed on the sensor itself when you remove the tire. However, in many modern TPMS sensors the ID is only accessible via the diagnostic tool or through a dealer/service provider’s system. If you’re replacing a tire or sensor, your tire shop or dealer can pull the ID from your VIN and record it for you, ensuring the new or replacement sensor is properly recognized by the system.

Direct vs Indirect TPMS considerations

Direct TPMS requires sensor IDs; indirect TPMS uses wheel-speed data and does not rely on per-sensor IDs. If your car has indirect TPMS but you’re replacing direct sensors or performing a relearn, the ID retrieval process described here remains relevant for the direct-sensor portion of the system.

Summary

In most cases you’ll obtain a TPMS sensor ID with a dedicated TPMS diagnostic tool, either by reading the vehicle’s onboard TPMS display or by reading each tire’s sensor data via the OBD-II port. If the dashboard doesn’t show IDs, or you’re replacing sensors, a tire shop or dealer can also retrieve and register the IDs for you. Keeping the correct IDs on file ensures accurate monitoring and smooth relearn procedures after tire work.

What is the sensor ID?

Dive. Sensor ID technology is actually quite common in the world used in places like key fobs. And electronic pay applications but it's often misunderstood. In its application to the data acquisition.

Where is the ID number on a TPMS sensor?

The TPMS sensor ID is found on the sensor itself, often printed on a label or etched into the plastic housing. If you cannot access the sensor, you can retrieve the ID using a dedicated TPMS scan tool, which can read the ID from the sensor or from the vehicle's computer via the OBD-II port. Some tools can also "clone" or program the ID into a new sensor.

This video demonstrates how to locate the TPMS sensor ID on the sensor itself: 40sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Mar 10, 2025
On the sensor itself

Printed on a label or etched into the housing: The ID is typically a unique alphanumeric code printed on the sensor's body, often when it's still attached to the wheel. You may need to remove the tire from the rim to get a clear view.
Provided on a paper label: When you buy a new OEM sensor, the ID is usually on a paper label that is attached to the sensor's packaging or the sensor itself.
Example: A common ID is 7-8 characters long, but it can be 10 characters, consisting of a mix of numbers (0−90 minus 90−9) and letters (A−Fcap A minus cap F𝐴−𝐹).

This video shows how to program new sensors after copying the original ID: 44sWEGMANN automotiveYouTube · Feb 1, 2024
Using diagnostic tools

TPMS scan tool: A professional TPMS tool can read the ID by communicating directly with the sensor.
OBD-II scan tool: A tool connected to the OBD-II port can pull all sensor IDs from the vehicle's on-board computer.
Aftermarket sensor programming tools: These tools can read the ID from an old sensor and program it into a new one. Some can also create a new, random ID for a new sensor if the old one is no longer working or available.

You can also watch this video to learn how to retrieve the TPMS sensor ID using a laptop and diagnostic software: 43sDIY-timeYouTube · Jan 24, 2021
Other methods

Vehicle owner's manual: Some manufacturers list the sensor IDs in the owner's manual, although this is uncommon.
Emailing a report: Some advanced diagnostic tools can email a report of the sensor IDs to you, which is useful for record-keeping.

How do I know what TPMS sensor I need?

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Does each sensor in a direct TPMS have a unique ID code?

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Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.