Broke one of my TPMS sensor valve stems (salt got under the nut and rotted it out, water got in and froze, nut cracked). I replaced the nut, but the threads are too messed up for it to hold tight to the wheel now, so it leaks air.

The dealer wanted to charge me a TPMS programming fee ($56 I think) to program the sensor to the computer. Is this really necessary? I've read about people buying used JK wheels/tires, putting them on their Jeep, and it just picks up the sensors after driving.

If I buy an OEM (Schrader brand, VDO REDI-sensor, etc.) TMPS sensor online for 1/4 the price, can I just install it and the computer will pick it up?

Thanks!

 

I know the TPMS sensors have changed over the run of the JK. I don't know if the TPMS behavior has changed, though.

This is how the 2008 TPMS behaves when a sensor is replaced:

The WCM automatically learns and stores the sensor's ID while driving “within 10 minutes continuously above 15 m.p.h. (24 Km/h)” after a sensor has been replaced.
The learning sequence will initiate when the vehicle has been stopped for more then 20 minutes. A new TPM sensor ID can also be programmed directly into the WCM by using a RKE-TPM Analyzer in conjunction with a Scan Tool. Once the new TPM sensor ID has been programmed, the RKE-TPM Analyzer can be used to update the TPMS by activating the TPM sensor.

 

I bought all the parts except the actual TPMS unit on Amazon. My local tire store replaced them for me. The parts were about $12. The tire break down, parts replacement about $15. No programming necessary. Let me know if you need the part numbers. I have a 2008 with the aluminum stems. I have a thread somewhere on the forum.

 

I'm actually considering that instead, as my sensor itself works fine. I looked up 2009 Wrangler on Schrader's site (assuming my OEM sensors are Schrader, the thread I found on here the person had that brand OEM). I then looked up al the parts on eBay and they are all pretty cheap.

I'll probably do that and have the tire place give it a try, thanks. If they won't do it, I'll have them remove the sensor and bring it out to me, I'll put in the new stem (does it just push through like it looks?), and then have them mount it back in the wheel.

 

Yes, the stem just backs out of the sensor. Then you just reinstall the stem. The gasket and mounting nuts are replaced from the outside after the tire is re-mounted. The torque setting of the nut is important. The service pack kit comes with a new aluminum stem, valve, rubber gasket, nut and valve cap it's #20013, the stem 20020. All that is for my 2008 X with 17 inch tires and aluminum rims. The lists I've seen show the same parts for an 08, 09, 10. You should be fine.

 

Here is the photo...I hope

 

Cool, thanks. I ordered 20013 and 20020 from Amazon ($9 shipped total w/ Amazon Prime) on Friday. Should come Monday and Tuesday, then I'll probably get it installed on the weekend.

So that smaller nut with the flat spot on one side just sits there? Also, just the larger nut is put on from the outside, right? You said nut and rubber gasket, but the gasket looks like it's on the inside.

Thanks!

 

I bought a AEV Procal Tool that shuts down the TPMS and the stupid light. This Procal tool does many more cool things as well. Worth the money. I know some folks like the TPMS system, but I had too many issues between false readings , bad sensors, etc. I check my tire pressure every 2-3 weeks with a guage.

 

Yes you are correct. New stem into sensor, gasket/seal on stem inside of tire, shoulder nut on outside of rim, new valve core and new valve cap

 

does the procal void the warranty?