TPMS options

[googleman]

So I installed a new set of summer tires with a new set of TPM sensors on them. The oem ones are now on my winter set. In terms of letting the car recognize the new sensors, reading through the forums I see that there are few options:

1. pay the dealer to do it, which gets quite expensive quickly

2. do nothing, let the warning light remain on, or tape over it

3. use a tool like ATEX quickset (~$150), which allows you to upload the new sensor IDs to the car's computer, but I am not sure it will work with or EX35s. Has anyone used that tool successfully on an EX?

4. Buy programmable sensors and make their IDs identical to factory tpms. I can't do this as my second set of sensors are not programmable.

5. grounding/shorting the tpm connector to reset tpm memory and and then letting the car relearn the new set.


The last one seems to be the most promising option out there. A user describes it in detail in another forum where you are supposed to identify the tpm conncetor, and then ground it, which activates tpm relearn process.

I would like to attempt this, but not sure how I access the tpm connector. I know that it is supposed to be attached to the OBD2 cable, but do I need to remove any trim to access it? Has anyone completed the process successfully for a 2008 EX?

[NJGuy]

I like options 3 and 5.

Option 3 looks good, since you plan to switch the wheels somewhat frequently. The ATEQ tool appears convenient if this is something you would do somewhat regularly. After a few uses, it'll pay for itself. Also, since all cars going forward will have TPMS, you should be able to use it on cars you'll have in the future.

Option 5 should work as well, as long as you have the time to do it. There is actually a tool that helps out with the grounding process (OTC 3831), but it's up to you if you think it's worth the cost (~$35-$50). A thin wire with both ends stripped can pretty much do the same thing as this tool.

In my '08 EX, I had no trouble finding the connector. I didn't have to remove any of the lower dash trim to access it. However, I did have to move the driver seat all the way back and contort my body a bit for me to get to it. It should be taped to the wiring of the OBDII connector; mine was covered by the electrical tape, so I had to dig it out a little bit. Having one of those headband flashlights would probably come in handy here when you're looking for it.

I couldn't get my EX's TPMS into the diagnostic or learning modes when I tried. However, I only played with it a few minutes and didn't try it with the engine running; I only tried it with the ignition switch in the "ON" position. If I had more time to mess around with it, I think I could have figured it out.

[CDNicecube]

I used the ATeq tool before with my EX. Worked well. But now I have programable sensors so no need. I still use the ATEQ with my Honda Odyssey.

[googleman]

I like options 3 and 5.

Option 3 looks good, since you plan to switch the wheels somewhat frequently. The ATEQ tool appears convenient if this is something you would do somewhat regularly. After a few uses, it'll pay for itself. Also, since all cars going forward will have TPMS, you should be able to use it on cars you'll have in the future.

Option 5 should work as well, as long as you have the time to do it. There is actually a tool that helps out with the grounding process (OTC 3831), but it's up to you if you think it's worth the cost (~$35-$50). A thin wire with both ends stripped can pretty much do the same thing as this tool.

In my '08 EX, I had no trouble finding the connector. I didn't have to remove any of the lower dash trim to access it. However, I did have to move the driver seat all the way back and contort my body a bit for me to get to it. It should be taped to the wiring of the OBDII connector; mine was covered by the electrical tape, so I had to dig it out a little bit. Having one of those headband flashlights would probably come in handy here when you're looking for it.

I couldn't get my EX's TPMS into the diagnostic or learning modes when I tried. However, I only played with it a few minutes and didn't try it with the engine running; I only tried it with the ignition switch in the "ON" position. If I had more time to mess around with it, I think I could have figured it out.

I think I located where it is. Without removing the trim it might be too tricky to cut the tape without cutting something else as well, as I can't fit my head in there to see but I'll give it a shot. If unsuccessful, good to know that Ateq works.

[NJGuy]

On my EX, I didn't need to cut the tape with any sharp instruments. The TPMS connector was only covered by 1 layer of the electrical tape, and I found it fairly easy to undo with my fingers. Once I freed the TPMS connector, it stuck out from below the trim by maybe a half inch or so when fully extended if I recall correctly.

Whether or not you're successful in getting the new sensors synced to the car via the TPMS connector, please let us know about your experience.

[googleman]

On my EX, I didn't need to cut the tape with any sharp instruments. The TPMS connector was only covered by 1 layer of the electrical tape, and I found it fairly easy to undo with my fingers. Once I freed the TPMS connector, it stuck out from below the trim by maybe a half inch or so when fully extended if I recall correctly.

Whether or not you're successful in getting the new sensors synced to the car via the TPMS connector, please let us know about your experience.

I took the lazy route and bought an Ateq quickset instead. Figured if I have to do this twice a year, doing it in 15 seconds beats worrying about successfully resetting the connector, adjusting the pressures, buying an accurate gauge to do so, driving around, etc. Once you know the TPM IDs, Ateq quickset was very straightforward. In my case the second set of TPMs were already initialized though. For brand new TPMs you need to also buy another tool to have them activated or pay a tire center to do so.