How to Install Clamp-In TPMS Sensors

The goal of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is to help avoid traffic accidents, poor fuel economy, and increased tire wear due to under-inflated tires. Due to the influence tire pressure has on vehicle safety and efficiency, TPMS is required on vehicles manufactured for sale within the United States after 2007.

You’ve probably noticed the TPMS warning light on your dashboard at some point. This is a warning to let you know that one or more of your tires is under-inflated. In most cases you can pull your vehicle into a gas station and fill your tires with air to reach the manufacturer recommended tire pressure. However, this can also be a warning that one or more of your TPMS sensors are failing and it’s time for a new sensor.

Before you install your clamp-in TPMS sensors

• The following guide is meant to be used with DP-Accessories brand clamp-in TPMS sensors only.
• Any maintenance and repair work must be carried out by trained experts. Failure to do so may result in the failure of the TPMS sensor. The manufacturer does not assume any liability in case of faulty or incorrect installation of the product.
• Read the installation and safety instructions carefully before installing the sensor.
• When the tire bead is initially broken, ensure the valve is on the opposite side of the wheel from the bead breaker blade.
• When a tire is removed or a sensor is removed, it is highly recommended to replace or service the sensor by replacing the valve nut/collar/core, rubber grommet, and if necessary, the valve stem. It is very important to tighten the nut/collar to the correct torque of 35.5 in-lbs (4 Nm). Shop for replacement valve stems.

What’s included with your clamp-in TPMS sensor?

Installing Clamp-In TPMS Sensors

1. Break the bead of the tire ensuring the valve is located on the opposite side of the rim from the bead breaker blade. When the tire is dismounted the valve must be located at 1 o’clock to the tire fitting head.
2. Place the valve through the valve hole, ensuring the rubber grommet makes good contact with the valve hole all around.
3. Screw the nut/collar onto the sensor valve by hand.
4. Place the anti-rotation pin into the valve hole to prevent the movement of the sensor during tightening.
5. Hold the anti-rotation pin securely and use an 11 mm socket and torque tool to tighten the nut to 35.5 in-lbs (4 Nm).
6. When remounting the tire on to the rim ensure that the valve starts on the opposite side of the rim from the tire fitting head.
7. Now that your sensors are installed, they will need to be relearned to your vehicle. Contact a Driven Products Fitment Specialist for help identifying your vehicle’s TPMS relearn procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to install clamp-in TPMS sensors?

The cost of installing TPMS sensors will depend on the installer. Assuming you already have your clamp-in TPMS sensors purchased and ready to install, you can expect to pay between $20-$50 per sensor installation.

How long do clamp-in TPMS sensors usually last?

DP-Accessories brand clamp-in TPMS sensors are equipped with an advanced Maxell battery. The typical life expectancy is 7-years or 100,000 mile. Our sensors come with a 3 year / 36,000 mile limited warranty.

What is the difference between TPMS relearn and TPMS programming?

Don’t confuse TPMS relearning with TPMS programming. Your DP-Accessories TPMS sensors are preprogrammed for your vehicle before we send them to you. When installing new TPMS sensors replacing, your vehicle manufacturer has specific steps to put the vehicle in learn mode and program the sensors. There are some vehicles that will relearn sensors automatically when your tires are rotated. However, most TPMS sensors will require an action by you to relearn them.

What is the TPMS relearn procedure for my vehicle?

Each vehicle manufacturer will have their own unique TPMS relearn procedure. Contact a Driven Products Fitment Specialist for help identifying your vehicle’s TPMS relearn procedure.