How much does TPMS replacement cost?
Typically, TPMS replacement runs about $150 to $350 per wheel, with all four wheels often totaling roughly $400 to $1,200 depending on sensor type, labor, and programming needs. Dealer pricing can be higher, while independent shops and tire retailers frequently offer more competitive rates.
What TPMS is and why replacement may be needed
TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It uses sensors in each wheel to monitor air pressure and alert you if a tire is under-inflated or if a sensor has failed. Replacement may be required when a sensor battery dies, the sensor is damaged, a wheel is replaced, or a tire service triggers the need for sensor relearn. Direct TPMS sensors generally last 5–10 years, but actual longevity depends on driving conditions and vehicle design. Prices vary with sensor type (OEM vs aftermarket) and service provider.
Cost breakdown by component
The following list breaks down the typical cost categories you’ll see when replacing TPMS sensors, stems, and relearn services. The figures reflect common ranges in the United States as of 2024–2025 and can vary by vehicle and location.
Choosing sensors: OEM vs aftermarket considerations
Direct TPMS sensors come in two broad categories. OEM sensors (your vehicle’s original equipment) are designed to match the exact specifications of your car and may require dealer-level programming in some cases. Aftermarket sensors tend to be cheaper and can work well on many vehicles, but compatibility and relearn requirements must be verified with the shop. The price difference between OEM and aftermarket sensors is a major factor in total cost.
- Direct TPMS sensors: $40–$150 per sensor. Aftermarket sensors are usually cheaper than OEM, while OEM sensors tend to be more expensive but are guaranteed to match your vehicle’s specifications. A full set for four wheels can range from about $160 to $600 in parts alone.
- Valve stems and hardware: $0–$30 per wheel. Some sensors include a new stem; if not, stems add to the per-wheel cost.
- Labor to remove tires and install sensors: $40–$100 per wheel. This covers tire removal, sensor installation, and reseating the tire on the rim.
- Programming/relearning: $0–$60 per vehicle at many independent shops; dealers or cars requiring specialized tools may charge $100+ for the relearn process.
- Misc fees (tax, disposal, balancing if needed): typically $5–$20 per tire and may be included in the service package.
Conclusion: The total on a per-wheel basis depends heavily on sensor choice and whether the relearn can be done without dealer tools. When planning, ask for a full price breakdown that includes parts, labor, stems, and programming.
Price ranges by number of wheels
The total cost you’ll see on your bill scales with how many wheels require TPMS work. Here are typical ranges to help you budget.
- One wheel: roughly $150–$350 total, depending on sensor type, stem needs, and labor.
- Two wheels: roughly $300–$700 total.
- All four wheels: roughly $400–$1,200 total, with higher-end dealer programming potentially pushing costs higher.
Conclusion: Replacing all four sensors at once can yield some labor savings, but the final price still hinges on sensor type, relearn requirements, and whether OEM parts are chosen.
Where to get TPMS service
Where you have TPMS work done influences price and convenience. Options range from dealerships to independent tire shops and mobile services.
- Dealership: Often the most expensive option, especially if OEM sensors or dealer programming is required. Expect higher per-wheel costs and longer wait times in some areas.
- Independent tire shop: Typically offers a favorable balance of price and expertise; common range is $100–$250 per tire, depending on vehicle and sensor type.
- Big-box tire retailers: May provide competitive pricing and packages; confirm what is included (sensor, stem, labor, relearn) before agreeing to service.
- Mobile TPMS service: Convenient and sometimes cheaper on labor; prices mirror shop-based ranges but vary by location and travel fees.
Conclusion: Shop around and request a detailed quote that itemizes sensor cost, stems, labor, and programming. Packages that include relearn can be a good value, but verify exactly what is covered.
Money-saving tips
Use these strategies to lower TPMS replacement costs without compromising accuracy or safety.
- Ask about aftermarket sensors that are compatible with your vehicle; they can be substantially cheaper than OEM parts while still delivering reliable performance.
- Request that the relearn/programming be included in the quoted price; some shops bundle this with labor.
- Bundle TPMS replacement with tire service on the same visit to reduce labor charges and capitalize on shop promotions.
- Look for bundled pricing or promotions from independent shops or tire retailers; these offers may cover sensors, stems, labor, and relearn for a fixed price.
- Replacing all four sensors at once can save repeated labor charges, but ensure your vehicle actually requires four sensors rather than reusing any existing hardware.
Conclusion: By getting a detailed, itemized quote and considering aftermarket parts when compatible, you can reduce overall TPMS replacement costs while maintaining system reliability.
Summary
TPMS replacement costs vary widely based on sensor type (OEM vs aftermarket), the number of wheels serviced, labor, and whether dealer programming is required. In practice, expect about $150–$350 per wheel, with all four wheels commonly totaling $400–$1,200. Shopping around, asking for a full price breakdown, and considering bundled services can yield meaningful savings. Always verify compatibility and relearn requirements with the shop before proceeding.
