What Are The Best Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems
Tire pressure monitoring systems have been a mandatory requirement in the US since 2008. This is when the federal government declared that all cars made and sold in the US must be fitted with these systems for safety purposes.
If you have a vehicle which was made before 2008, you will probably want to install a TPMS system. On the other hand TPMs sensors have a typical lifespan of 5 to 10 years. This means that sensors in vehicles continually need replacement as their lifespan ends.
This is where aftermarket TPMS sensors come in. These are sensors which are designed for use as replacements for sensors installed during manufacture of a vehicle. Aftermarket sensors are typically cheaper than original (OEM) sensors.
To help you make an informed decision on which sensors to buy, we have compiled a list of the best aftermarket TPMS sensors.
Best Aftermarket TPMS Sensors
In a Hurry? Our Top Choices of “THE” Most Popular Aftermarket TPMS Sensors
Autel MX Sensors
Autel has made a name for itself for manufacture of good quality TPMS tools such as programming tools, scan tools and the like. It is no surprise that they also make sensors.
These are also made to replace original factory sensors with the intention of providing service similar to or better than that enjoyed from original factory sensors. These Autel sensors come in a pack of 4 pieces which makes replacing sensors in all four tires of your car easy and convenient. It also makes the replacement more cost effective considering you get two pairs of sensors for a reasonable price.
These programmable universal sensors require no relearning procedure and are 100% ID clone-able. If you are a professional stocking sensors in your shop, they are definitely a brand to stock in plenty because they provide 98% vehicle coverage. Autel provides regular software updates to ensure the latest vehicle models are covered.
The replaceable aluminum valve stem can withstand heat, cold and resistance corrosion, while a high-precision air valve helps to prevent air leakage.
While other sensors transmit using either 315MHz or 433MHz, these sensors are capable of transmitting using both frequencies, making them more versatile. The power source is an automotive grade battery which can serve you efficiently for up to 5 years.
You can buy these sensors with complete confidence because they come with a 24-month or 24,000 mile warranty.
Key Features
- Replaces OEM sensors
- Programmable universal sensor
- 100% ID clone-able
- Automotive grade battery
- High- precision air valve
Pros
- Combines both 315 MHz and 433 MHz
- 98% vehicle coverage
- Pack of 4 sensors
- Durable
- Replaceable aluminum valve stem
- 24-month or 24,000 mile warranty
Doorman 974 – 009 TPMS Sensor
These are designed specifically to replace OEM sensors in selected Cadillac, GM, Chevrolet, Buick, Hummer, Saab, Saturn, Pontiac and Suzuki vehicles. The manufacturer has made an effort to ease the headache of installation by including in the package a stem unit, hex nut and grommet washer. These are everything you need to install the sensor. The installation process is further simplified because of a unique two-piece design which allows you to replace the valve stem independent of the sensor.
You have a wide installation angle range to work with when installing this sensor. Anything between 5 and 26 degrees will work perfectly.
This product has been tried, tested and vetted by professionals in the industry so you can be assured you are dealing with a quality product. In the event that you have any problems using it, help is a phone call away. They are backed by Dorman’s ASE Blue Seal certified technical support team.
Key Features
- Designed for some Buick, Cadillac, Saturn, Pontiac, GM, Chevrolet, Hummer and Saab vehicles.
- Two-piece design
- Installation angle range: 5° -26°
- Complete package
Pros
- Easy to install
- Professionally tested
- Customer support available
View price on Amazon
Denso 550 – 0103 TPMS Sensor
Denso is a renowned name known for manufacture of various types of car parts such as spark plugs, oil filters, car radiators and a variety of sensors.
The 550 – 0103 TPMS sensors are made to replace OE sensors and are designed to operate and be installed just like OE sensors. They allow for a quick, direct fit installation requiring no cloning or programming. They can be used in a variety of vehicle models. The OE technology used preserves diagnostic trouble codes allowing you to maintain vehicle performance history.
They are mounted using the clamp-in method and powered by a long lasting lithium-polymer battery which can serve you efficiently for up to 6 years.
A full manufacturer’s warranty is offered on all sensors.
Key Features
- Designed to replace OE sensors
- Lithium-polymer battery
- Clamp-in mounting design
Pros
- Quick direct-fit installation
- Long-lasting battery
- Fits in multiple car models
- Full manufacturer warranty
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VDO SE10001 HP REDI TPMS Sensor
VDO, the manufacturing company which makes these sensors is a division of Continental Corporation’s automotive group. It has been in operation for more than 80 years and is a recognized OEM manufacturer. With this in mind, you can be sure their aftermarket, replacement parts meet all OEM specifications.
The SE10001 HP REDI TPMS sensors are pre-programmed. They are designed to follow OE relearn procedures so there is no need to spend time going through programming processes.
This also means you don’t have to invest in costly programming tools and software. A robust clamp-in pivoting stem design allows for expanded wheel fitment.
The package includes all component parts which makes installation quick and easy. These sensors can be used on a variety of vehicles including Chrysler, Mazda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan, GM and Ford. They can replace different sensor designs like banded, clamp-in and snap-in, using any major TPMS scan tool.
Key Features
- Clamp-in pivoting stem design
- Pre-programmed
- OE replacement
Pros
- Includes all component parts
- OE validated
- Usable in a variety of vehicle models
- Works with all major TPMS scan tools
- Replaces a variety of sensor designs
View price on Amazon
ORO –Tek TPMS Sensor
These sensors are supplied in singles though it is advisable to replace all four sensors in your car at the same time. ORO-Tek sensors are designed to replace OE sensors and give you similar or better service than an original equipment.
Installation is simplified because they do not require any programming. All that is required is a quick relearning procedure to get them ready for use. Another advantage of this is that you don’t need to invest in TPMS programming tools or software which can sometimes be quite expensive.
These sensors have a 2-piece stem design which makes maintenance easier and cheaper because you can easily replace the stem without having to replace the entire sensor. These are a good choice if you are looking for pocket friendly sensors.
Key Features
- Replacement for OE sensors
- No programming required
- 2-piece stem design
Pros
- Can replace stem independently
- Inexpensive
View price on Amazon
Factors to Consider When Buying Aftermarket TPMS Sensors
Sensor type:
There are two types of TPMS sensors in the market.
Indirect TPMS sensors
These work by monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel. The assumption is that an underinflated tire has a slightly reduced diameter and higher rotational speed than a properly inflated one. When a tire is underinflated, these changes are detected using the ABS system.
Direct TPMS sensors
In the direct system, TPMS sensors are fitted in each wheel and they physically measure tire pressure and report it to the vehicle’s ECU. Some sensors also measure and report temperature changes in the tire.
Some systems can report under inflation in varying combinations. Some report it in general and others report it based on individual tires.
Battery Durability:
TPMS sensor batteries generally last very long. However, some last longer than others and it is important to select one which will give you the best service for the longest time.
Another factor to consider in relation to batteries is the independence of the battery from the rest of the sensor. Some sensors have removable batteries which can be removed and replaced while retaining the sensor. Just like you would do with your remote control. In other sensors, the battery cannot be replaced. When it fails, the whole sensor must be replaced.
Cost effectiveness:
A quick look through TPMS systems and sensors will reveal that some sensors are sold as single pieces, others are supplied in pairs and others are sold in sets of 4.
Take time to do the math and figure out what the most cost-effective option is. A TPMS sensor brand may seem more expensive than another but you find that it supplies 4 sensors in a pack. This effectively makes them cheaper than single sensors.
Versatility:
Some sensors are vehicle specific and others are not. When buying sensors, look for a brand which can be used on a variety of makes and models. This is especially true if you are buying sensors to stock at an auto repair shop. You want to have sensors which can be used on almost all, if not all clients ‘vehicles.
Frequency:
TPMS sensors generally transmit on one of two frequencies. These are 315MHz and 433 MHz. The difference is basically in terms of geographical area. 315MHz is not permitted in Europe while in the US, both 315MHz and 433 MHz are permissible.
For this reason, most dealers choose to stock 433 MHz frequency sensors because they are internationally accepted and usable. Always check the transmission frequency used before you buy.
Reliability:
Take time to do some research to find out the leading names in the industry. Try to stick to these when you buy. The assumption is that a leading brand of TPMS sensors will supply good quality sensors.
Another advantage you are likely to enjoy when you buy from reputable manufacturers is customer assistance. Larger, reputable companies usually have professional customer care services to assist you if you have any problems with the product.
Ease of use:
TPMS sensors are a part of the entire tire pressure monitoring system. They can be used using an inbuilt monitor in the vehicle or a portable monitor which you have to operate like any other device.
Look for sensors which are compatible with monitors which are easy and convenient to use. If you cannot use the monitor then the whole purpose of the TPMS system is defeated.
Warranties:
Some TPMs sensor brands come with warranties which assure you that the product will be replaced if you encounter quality-related problems. The warranty period could be given in terms of time such as one year or two years. It could also be expressed in terms of mileage. In this case you can have the sensor replaced for free if it develops problems before you have covered a certain number of miles.
It is easy to ignore warranties when purchasing a product but if you have ever had a faulty product replacement on the basis of a warranty, you know how important they are. On the other hand, warranties should give you confidence that a product is of good quality.
Any manufacturer who is confident enough to offer a warranty on their product is certain it is good enough not to attract a significant number of replacements.
Conclusion
Replacing your TPMS sensors after the ones the car came with fail can be somewhat confusing. There are so many brands to choose from and you have to make sure you buy a brand which is compatible with your car.
After an analysis of different brands, the Autel MX TPMS Sensor is our top pick because it comes in a set of 4 inexpensive sensors for easy replacement of all four sensors in a regular car.
They are 100% ID clone-able and have a durable battery. Another advantage to enjoy is an impressively high vehicle coverage percentage (98%) which is thanks to Autel’s efforts to stay updated on new vehicle models. A 24 -month or 24,000 mile warranty is great to have even if you never make use of it.
