BKbroiler

I have a 2004 coupe. I need to change the TPMS sensors. I plan to buy the sensors and have a tire shop install them and then do the reset procedure myself. I have a reset tool but from the videos I've seen, everyone uses a ring magnet on C5s instead. Will the reset tool work or do I have to get a magnet?

MWWarlord

I have a '04 as well, and the magnet worked fine for me. The shop tried to use a tool, and it didn't work. I would actually recommend setting them before the actual install, and label each one so the shop knows where to put them.

bsn5440

Depends what sensors they install, the OEM sensors use a magnet, aftermarket sensors use a TPMS tool. You should also be able to drop the air pressure to program

Vader_C5

Honestly, I used an old speaker on my 99, worked fine on my OEM sensors. You just need a strong enough magnet.

ninety6

You'd be very wise to pair them before install. This confirms they are correct and working before you pay for the install. Even if you re-pair after, you know going in they are right. Most tire installers pair them free after install (if they aren't, maybe find a better shop).

jdmvette

mine used the tool. i programmed them all from the driver's seat and labeled them as such.




then took them to the shop and they were installed as labeled & was good to go.

there's more info in this thread that may help you

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...tpms-help.html

BKbroiler

Thanks guys. I like the idea of pairing before installation.

bc6152

Clue me in fellow members... How is it possible to reset the sensors if they're not inside the tire? i.e the sensors are not "sensing" the tire pressure...

MWWarlord

There is a pairing process that can be accessed through the DIC. Think of it kind of like connecting a Bluetooth device. Once you initiate the process, you hold a magnet up to the TPMS sensor that would go into the front driver's side tire. When it pairs successfully, the horn will beep. You then continue clockwise (based on wheel position) until each sensor is paired. As long as the sensors are in range, it doesn't matter if they are actually in the tire or not. It is true that on the way to the shop, the car will be telling you that all 4 tires are flat. However, you can dismiss the warning. Once the sensors are actually installed they'll update to show the proper tire pressure after a few minutes of driving.

bsn5440

You program them to their position and register them before installing. I have a programming tool and used to install new sensors them program them after the tires were installed. Works great until you get a set of counterfeit sensors or a defective one. I got a set of counterfeit sensors and got burned so I do it before I install them now-I mount my own tires so all it cost me was time and work. A programming tool is pretty cheap, if you have a couple of cars they pay for themselves quick..

RyanG

You could save yourself the money and disable the TPMS. I did it when I put aftermarket wheels on my 02.

bc6152

Thanks Warlord and bsn5440...

punz

I got the Schrader sensors from rock auto, 1999 car. Would not work with magnet, had to use tool. Old worked with the magnet, things change in 24 years.

hyperv6

I am not sure on the older Corvettes but most GM cars will reset with turning on the learn process on the dash then letting air out of the tire till the horn and turn signal go off starting at the right front. Yes a pain as you have to re air.

Or you can use the tool in the same process.

my 04 Pontiac and both 08 Chevys did this.

After 2012 you need the tool to reset but they are cheap and are comparable with older models too. .

Generally resetting a Corvette is not an issue as you can’t rotate and only when a tire is changed they need reset. The shops normally do that.

Yes magnets work I believe up to 2012 too.

I would not disable these as they have become handy and with no spares they are needed to catch a problem early.

OHRedSled

I took JDM's advice and used the MORE Sensors after having zero success with the Dorman sensors. The MORE sensors programmed super easy with the same tool he shows in his picture. I just stood right next to the left wheel well to program.

MetalMan2

Mine has the red MORESENSOR TPMS sensors as well, been doing just fine for I think 6 months now