TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems are now included as standard equipment on many of today's high performance automobiles. From model year 2008 all new cars must have TPMS fitted. TPMS use sensors in the wheels to transmit important information such as pressure and temperature to the car's control module (ECM). This information is then displayed on the instrument panel in the form of a display or warning light.

 Typically sensors only transmit data while the car is in motion, therefore when servicing or replacing wheels a tool is required to initiate (or force) the sensor to transmit its data. The Wheelrite Trackside tool is a specialist TPMS reset tool for your high performance car which initiates sensors so that the cars ECM can be reprogrammed.

Most vehicles start TPMS programming at the LEFT FRONT wheel. Initiate the sensor with the tool held against the rubber of the tire, at a 30 to 45 degree angle pointed towards the TPMS (see photos). You will receive an audible response from the tool AND the car (usually a horn beep). Proceed to the RIGHT REAR and then the LEFT REAR. If the vehicle is equipped with a TPMS in the spare it would typically be programmed last (refer to the vehicle service manual).

The tool works by transmitting a low frequency wake up to the TPMS which then returns a UHF message. The Wheelrite Trackside actually decodes the sensor data which ensures that the correct TPMS is being read and that the tool is not fooled by RF transmissions from keyfobs or other sensors. The tool comes in a kit comprising: tool, rubber protective boot, carrying pouch and 9V battery.