Is it worth it to replace tire sensor?
Yes — replacing a faulty or aging TPMS sensor is usually worth it to maintain accurate tire pressure readings, which supports safety, better tire wear, and improved fuel efficiency. This article explains when to replace, what to expect in terms of cost and the replacement process, and how to decide the best timing for your vehicle.
What TPMS is and why it matters
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) come in two main varieties: direct TPMS, which uses sensors mounted inside each tire to measure actual pressure, and indirect TPMS, which estimates pressure from wheel speed data and ABS signals. Direct TPMS provides real-time pressure readings to the dashboard and can alert you to underinflation, a common cause of accelerated tire wear, worse handling, lower fuel economy, and a higher risk of blowouts. Indirect TPMS relies on sensor data rather than actual pressure values and can be less reliable in certain tire and driving conditions. Both systems aim to keep your tires properly inflated, which is essential for safety and performance.
Direct vs indirect TPMS
Direct TPMS sensors are mounted inside the wheel and communicate with the vehicle’s computer to report exact tire pressures and temperatures. They require a battery and periodic replacement when the battery dies or the sensor is damaged. Indirect TPMS uses the vehicle’s ABS wheel-speed sensors to infer inflation status; it doesn’t measure actual pressure and may miss underinflation in some situations. Understanding which type your vehicle uses helps determine replacement costs and procedures.
When to replace a TPMS sensor
Consider replacing a TPMS sensor when you encounter persistent issues with tire pressure readings, after wheel or tire service that damages a sensor, or when the sensor’s battery has likely reached the end of its life. Direct TPMS sensors have a finite battery life and typically cannot be repaired, so a replacement is often necessary. Relearning the new sensor’s ID to the vehicle’s computer is usually required after installation.
- The TPMS warning light stays on after inflating tires to the recommended pressure and performing any reset procedure.
- The sensor fails to read or consistently reports incorrect pressure values.
- The direct TPMS battery has died or the sensor is physically damaged.
- The wheel/tire service damaged a sensor or valve stem during installation or removal.
- Your vehicle is relatively old or has multiple aging sensors that may be nearing end of life.
Replacing a faulty TPMS sensor restores accurate readings and helps prevent unsafe underinflation, uneven tire wear, and unnecessary tire replacements. Failing to address a bad sensor can lead to continued inaccurate readings, reduced safety, and potential noncompliance with regional vehicle inspections.
Costs and installation considerations
Costs for TPMS sensor replacement vary by vehicle, sensor type, and location. Here is a practical guide to budgeting.
- Direct TPMS sensor price per wheel: OEM sensors typically $60–$120; aftermarket sensors commonly $40–$80. Luxury or European models can be higher.
- Labor and relearn: Installation includes tire removal, sensor installation, sealing, and programming/relearning the system. Expect roughly $60–$150 per tire, depending on the shop and vehicle.
- Additional services: Wheel balancing, valve stem replacement, and possible tire replacement may add to the bill. Some shops offer a bundled price for four wheels that includes relearn and warranty.
Note that replacing all four sensors at once can simplify maintenance and ensure consistent performance, but it isn’t mandatory if only one sensor has failed. Be sure to verify with the shop what is included in the price (relearn, warranty, balancing) and whether there are any extra charges for sensor programming.
DIY vs professional replacement
While some aftermarket sensors and relearn procedures can be attempted at home, most TPMS replacements require specialized tools to program and relearn the new IDs to your vehicle. Incorrect relearning can leave warning lights on or readings inaccurate. For most drivers, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper sensor fit, leak-free seals, correct relearn, and reliable operation.
When it makes sense to act now vs later
Acting sooner rather than later is often prudent when multiple sensors are aging, a warning light persists, or you’re in the middle of tire replacement. If tires are near the end of their life or you’re planning a full tire replacement, coordinating a TPMS replacement or sensor set upgrade at the same time can save time and reduce future service disruption. However, if your tires are new and the system is functioning reliably, some owners opt to postpone replacement until the sensor shows a failure or the battery dies.
Summary
TPMS sensors play a key role in maintaining proper tire pressure, which affects safety, tire longevity, and fuel economy. Replacing a faulty or aging direct TPMS sensor is generally worthwhile, as it ensures accurate readings and avoids the risks of underinflation. Costs vary widely, typically ranging from a few dozen to several hundred dollars per wheel depending on sensor type and labor, with four-wheel replacements offering potential savings and consistency. Relearn procedures are usually required, and professional installation is commonly recommended to ensure proper function and compliance with inspections. If you’re unsure, ask your mechanic for a clear estimate that includes sensor price, labor, relearn, warranty, and any additional services.
How much should it cost to have a tire sensor replaced?
The average cost to replace a single tire pressure sensor ranges from $50 to $250, including parts and labor. Replacing all four sensors can cost anywhere from $180 to $368 or more, depending on the vehicle and where you get the service done.
Factors affecting the total cost
- Part cost: Sensors can cost between $50 and $100 each, with higher-end sensors costing more.
- Labor cost: The price can vary by shop, but it typically includes the labor to dismount the tire, replace the sensor, remount the tire, and balance the wheel.
- Diagnostic fees: Some shops may charge a separate fee to diagnose which sensor is failing.
- Tire rotation: Many shops will recommend a tire rotation or other maintenance during sensor replacement, which can add to the total cost.
- Vehicle specifics: Some vehicles, especially luxury or European models, may have higher-priced parts or require specialized tools for programming, which can increase the cost.
Cost-saving tips
- Replace all sensors at once: When one sensor fails, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing them all at once can save you money on labor in the long run.
- Buy parts separately: You may be able to save money by purchasing the sensors yourself and having a local tire shop install them.
- Shop around: Get quotes from multiple shops to compare prices before committing to a service.
- Consider DIY: If you are comfortable with car maintenance, you can purchase sensors online and install them yourself. However, keep in mind you may need a special tool to program them to your vehicle.
Can I replace a TPMS sensor myself?
Yes, you can replace a TPMS sensor yourself, but it requires specialized tools and knowledge, and the process can be more difficult than it appears, especially without a tire machine to break the bead of the tire. The process involves removing the wheel, deflating the tire, breaking the tire bead to access the sensor, replacing the sensor, and then re-inflating and re-training the new sensors.
Steps for replacing a TPMS sensor
This video demonstrates how to replace a TPMS sensor yourself: 57sklowny1969YouTube · Jan 24, 2019
- Safety first: Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety glasses and gloves.
- Remove the wheel: Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, then use a jack and jack stands to lift the vehicle and remove the wheel.
- Deflate the tire: Use a valve core removal tool to let all the air out of the tire.
- Break the tire bead: This is the most difficult part without special equipment. You can use a tire machine or manually break the bead by using leverage with tools like a 2x6 piece of wood to push the tire away from the rim.
- Remove the old sensor: Once the tire bead is broken, you can access the sensor behind the valve stem and unscrew the nut that holds it in place. Some sensors have a thicker rubber stem that is pushed through the hole and may require a special tool to remove.
- Install the new sensor: Screw the new sensor into place, making sure to tighten it properly to avoid damage.
- Re-mount the tire: With the new sensor in place, it's time to put the tire back on the rim. This is often done by hand or with a tire machine.
- Inflate the tire: Fill the tire to the correct pressure as listed on the driver's side door jamb.
- Re-train the sensors: The new sensor needs to be programmed or "re-trained" to the vehicle's computer. This process varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle and often requires a special TPMS tool to get the system to recognize the new sensors.
- Re-install the wheel: Put the wheel back on the vehicle, lower it, and tighten the lug nuts.
- Check tire balance: Some DIYers claim you can skip re-balancing if you put the tire back in the same position, but others recommend re-balancing the tire for safety and a smoother ride.
Considerations before replacing a TPMS sensor yourself
- Tools needed: You will need a TPMS programming tool and a valve core removal tool, as well as a jack, lug wrench, and tire iron.
- Difficulty: Breaking the tire bead manually can be challenging, especially with certain types of tires, such as all-season tires.
- Cost: While you can save money on labor by doing it yourself, you still need to purchase the replacement sensors.
- Vehicle compatibility: Ensure you purchase the correct sensor for your vehicle, as some universal sensors may not be compatible with all makes and models and could cause false alerts.
- Tire balancing: If the wheel is not re-balanced after replacing the sensor, the tire may not be balanced properly, which can lead to vibrations at higher speeds and a shorter tire lifespan.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety. Work in a well-lit area and use caution when using a jack and other tools.
Is it worth replacing a tire pressure sensor?
Yes, TPMS sensors are worth replacing when they reach the end of their lifespan (typically 5 to 10 years) or if they fail. Properly functioning TPMS sensors contribute to safety and fuel efficiency.
Can AutoZone fix TPMS sensors?
At AutoZone, we carry replacement TPMS sensors for most makes and models. And if you need help resetting the TPMS light, we can offer helpful advice or refer you to a shop in our professional network.
