Schrader rolls out programmable TPMS sensor

ERJ staff report (TB)

Las Vegas, Nevada (SEMA Show) -- Tyre valve specialist Schrader International has developed a programmable tyre pressure monitoring sensor that it claims will allow tyre dealers and service centers to cut the number of TPMS sensor SKUs they need to stock.

The aftermarket product, called EZ-Sensor, is designed to replace malfunctioning or defective TPMS sensors, Schrader said. EZ-Sensors can be programmed with a sensor identification, the correct sensor protocol and functionality needed to interface with the TPMS already installed in the vehicle.

EZ-Sensor will be programmable using a variety of tools already used by many technicians, including the Schrader 21230 Diagnostic Tool, the Wheelrite TECH400 Plus from Bartec USA and SPX's OTC Tyre Pressure Monitor Kit, Schrader said.

With the new product, tyre dealers and service centers will need to stock only two EZ-Sensor SKUs to cover more than 90 percent of the market, Schrader claims, while also reducing the risk of installing the wrong sensor.

Schrader, a subsidiary of Tomkins P.L.C., said there are more than 120 different replacement sensor SKUs required to service the number of vehicles equipped with TPMS.

EZ-Sensor will use Schrader's patented Snap-In TPMS valve, helping to minimise installation time while eliminating the sealing and torque issues associated with other manufacturers' metal stem parts.

Schrader claims to be the global leader in TPMS for automotive OEMs. In the replacement market, the Schrader AirAware and EZ-Sensor brands will encompass a full line of TPMS systems, components and tools that meet OE quality and performance specifications, including sensors, service packs, tools and retrofit kits.

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)