Previously I talked about Tesla bluetooth TPMS about its shorter lifespan as compared to Wi-Fi version TPMS. Bluetooth TPMS replacement is easy. Simply replace the old one and you are good to go. But this’s not the case for Wi-Fi version.
Lifespan of Wi-Fi TPMS
Around 6 – 10 years for original equipped TPMS. Some even over 10 years like Hyundai H1, Tesla Model S. I hardly find any vehicles that are looking for replacing Wi-Fi TPMS.
Signal of TPMS problems
Tire pressure warning signal light is on, but all 4 tires are properly inflated. If your dashboard normally shows the psi of the tire and the value is now gone, it implies the sensor is no longer working.
Even so, I advise to get the sensors checked first before replacement. I came across a person who had the above issue but found out that all 4 sensors are in good status.
At the end, the problem is resolved without sensor replacement.
Can I replace the battery of Wi-Fi TPMS?
No. TPMS is tightly sealed in order to meet IR67 water resistant and dust resistant. Though, it got a small hole to detect the pressure of the tire. As such, adding liquid like tire sealant may damage the TPMS.
Price for getting original equipped Wi-Fi TPMS
As far as I heard from Nissan, Ford vehicle owner, it costs at least HK$1000 – HK$1200 / sensor for the related vehicle agent store. If you are looking for original factory equipped TPMS in Hong Kong, you have to go back to their brands’ agent store for replacement.
Otherwise, a substitute TPMS can replace your desired original equipped. More details can be found at the bottom of the page.
Will it last long even if you replace with original equipped ?
I do not know. Given the fact that they should replace the exact same thing, it should probably last the same as the original equipped. (It is original afterall, right? Not a substitute.)
However, I met a case in which a Nissan vehicle owner needs to replace TPMS for the second time even after replacing it at the Nissan agent store. The customer only used it for a year.
Original Equipped (Comes with vehicle) Nissan Qashqai
TPMS replaced by HK Nissan agent
The other point you may have noticed from the images above. TPMS replaced by the agent is not the same as the one comes with vehicle. This implies, you are not necessarily getting the exact original equipped TPMS.
Holding TPMS tight on the tire nozzle
TPMS is commonly screw tightly with the tire nozzle with some exceptions. Nissan Qashqai is one of them that hold tight with just a click on the metal valve (shown on the above image).
There is nothing wrong with it. But I got screwed up even I dismount the tire very carefully. The sensor came off from the nozzle without breaking. It should break if a technician dismounts the tire carelessly. The only thing I can conclude is, someone stick back this sensor without ensuring the sensor is “clicked” tightly.
Took me some time to figure how to stick back the sensors with the failure of metal clinging on the nozzle.
Can I purchase TPMS from taobao?
Yes. But I will not advise doing that as programming is required for Wi-Fi TPMS. Sometimes, it is not always working even you choose pre-program. Extra labour and TPMS fee will incur if it is not working.
Cost for taobao TPMS: around RMB50
Labor cost: HK$150 for one sensor
Total: around HK$205 for one replacement.
Why still choose taobao where you can get one from me?
Price of the substitute TPMS
Why purchase an expensive original equipped TPMS if you can have a cheaper substitute that can still work the same?
Currently the adaptable TPMS is sold for HK$400/sensor including all installation fees with wheel balancing. One year warranty is included. Expected lifespan around 3-5 years. (More towards 5 years)
Why still look for an original TPMS where you can get two substitutes for the same price?
The technology behind Wi-Fi TPMS
If you study electrical engineering, or play with Arduino/Rasberry, you can skip this part.
The Wi-Fi TPMS mainly uses 443MHz and 315MHz frequency to send data only to the car ECU. Just like bluetooth, it got a key inside the TPMS to match with the ECU so that both are connected. But Wi-Fi cannot be automatically connected to the ECU as this key can vary even in the same vehicle models.
Sometimes, generating a new key is necessary to program onto TPMS and ECU.
To purchase automotive tire, batteries and automobile, travel and personal insurance in HK, whatsapp Jimmy +852 5113 0668
Follow us on Tyrehood facebook page to get the latest automotive and insurance information 👀
