alfadoctor

Are there batteries in the TPMS? I was wondering what kind or type that has to be installed. The wife ran over a board with nails in it in the highway the other day and the tires are losing air. Now I need to take it in, but if the tire comes off the rim, what about installing new batteries?

Chas2

My understanding is that the TPMS are sealed units. The battery life is quoted anywhere from 5-10 years. So at some point, you will need new units.

I have not read about any dead batteries here, but we are just sort of getting to that time period.

There is probably a date stamp on the TPMS, and the tire shop would just love to sell you new sensors plus labor at $40 a pop.

Me, I would gamble and just see how long they lasted. Once one goes, then they all might as well be replaced.

alfadoctor

Are these TPMS units unique to Acura/Honda or are they generic to fit a multitude of cars with TPMS systems? What is the cost of new ones from a dealer?

Chas2

TPMS units are only made by a handful of companies. My understanding is that the sensors are not necessarily that unique, but they are designed to work with a OE solution, and further such solutions are not necessarily compatible between models or even within different model years on the same model, probably through unique programming. At one point, according to Tire Rack, Honda Acura had 6 different types of sensors in use over the two lineups.

Acura uses TRW and Pacific Industrial sensors and receiver systems. The 2G RL and 4G TL in particular use 315 MHz TRW systems. I do not know, for example, if the MDX/RDX SUV sensors, which are Pacific Industrial, work with the TRW systems in the RL.

I am told dealers charges are variable, but to get an idea, go to acuraoemparts, and see what list is and what they sell for. Also, I am told that Tire Rack has better pricing than dealers, and whatever they sell are compatible with Acura OE parts...

There is a TPMS service when changing tires, the valve core needs to be changed. I cannot remember which type, but either brass or nickel has to be used, probably nickel, to prevent a galvanic reaction with the TPMS valve body...definitely not good.

tnobori1

Sorry to hear about your tires Christopher. What luck...

alfadoctor

Tnobori1, such as it is with boards and nails in the road. Got 2 on the same side. What made it interesting is that I had just stripped the old tires off the rims the day before! I asked this question about the TPMS units as the ones on the rims are now 5 years old/albeit they are low mileage new tires. What if one of the conks out, what are my options is why I asked.
BTW...the car drives and rides like a new car.

tnobori1

Well sorry you had bad luck but I'm glad the tires helped the ride!