A group of TPMS tool and sensor manufacturers and the Tire Industry Association (TIA) launched a national public service campaign called “Update Your TPMS Tools!” to raise awareness on the importance of keeping TPMS tools up to date.
Having up to date software is particularly essential with the introduction of the latest generation of TPMS sensors, noted a press release from the Coalition of TPMS Manufacturers which includes ATEQ, Bartec, Continental, and Schrader, and the TIA.
By updating TPMS tool software, technicians can prevent TPMS service issues and avoid unnecessary delays, ultimately delivering improved customer service, the press release stated.
The launch of the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign coincides with National Tire Safety Week, an annual consumer awareness initiative of the US Tire Manufacturers Association aimed at educating motorists about tire care, safety, and awareness as essential part of road safety.
“TPMS tool manufacturers are routinely releasing software updates throughout the year," said Shawn Pease, director of automotive tire Service at Tire Industry Association. "Many factors can initiate a software change, such as new sensor technologies, vehicle model introductions, or vehicle recalls. Keeping the TPMS tool software up to date helps ensure faster, more successful TPMS service with fewer comebacks.”
According to recent surveys, up to 35 percent of technicians have not updated their TPMS tool software in the last year. When working with the newest generation of TPMS sensors, technicians need the latest generation of TPMS tool software.
Without it they cannot do TPMS service successfully. In addition to alerting shops and technicians about the need to register their tool and keep its software updated, the campaign is stressing the need to always perform a sensor relearn when rotating tires or performing TPMS service. Failing to perform the relearn is one of the most common reasons for TPMS service comebacks. Up to 20 percent of technicians surveyed don’t regularly perform the relearn when doing tire service.
The “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign web page provides links to software update downloads for many of the most popular TPMS tools. The site also includes a technician survey. For those who complete the survey will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win one of five $100 Amazon gift cards.
