So I got a new set of summer wheels and tires since I had studs on the stock wheels this winter. I bought new Denso TPMS sensors and am trying to find the easiest cheapest diy method out there. I've seen a few and was wondering if the latest and greatest is a better alternative to what I've seen. I was something I can do myself, so if anyone knows of a great method or tool of choice, please help me out. Thanks! I'll have pics of new rims here shortly too.
Was also going to ask, the new tpms sensors, does anything need to be done to them before installation? They just came in a box with no instructions.. I was going to just install them, put the tires on, and then deal with programming them later, is that okay? Or do I need to do something to them before install? Here are some pics of my new stuff! Going on my white 08 Prius
Techstream is the tool of choice for registering the new sensors. Be sure to write down the sensor serial numbers before you mount them. You'll have to enter the serial numbers into Techstream, and you wouldn't want to have to take the tire off again to retrieve the numbers...
Hey, thanks for the help. I am unfamiliar with Techstream, I'm assuming it's the software interface? Do you have a link to where I can get it? Also, does it connect via OBDII to usb or something similar? Thanks I was looking at going with the ATEQ QuickSet TPMS Reset Tool but if the Techstream route is better, I'd like to do that.
The product to look for is "Mini VCI", which comes with a copy of the Techstream software. I'm not up on the current best sources for it, but eBay and Amazon both carry versions. Techstream is the official Toyota diagnostic software. The official Toyota interface costs about $500, and the software is something like $50 for 3 days (?). I suppose a service shop would pay full fare for the support. The various "Mini VCI" products are clones of the Toyota interface that run around $25. They come with a hacked copy of the official Toyota Techstream software. Most of them work well enough, although setting it up with a 64 bit computer can be a problem. Search Priuschat for experience with the various vendors, particularly the 64 bit issue. I have an old 32 bit laptop that I keep around just for things like running Techstream in 32 bit mode.
I got mine on EBay because I wanted the the 32 and 64-bit version, but I ended using the 32-bit version. The 32-bit version is available on Amazon.com for about $25 V10 30 29 Mini VCI Diagnostic Tool Cable Scanner for Lexus Toyota Tis Techstream | eBay This EBay version is from China so you will wait about a 1or 2 weeks for it.
I have the ATEQ tool and use it twice a year for changing both my tires and my wife's between snows and regular. I've not tried the Techstream SW/tool so I can't say how it compares, but the ATEQ tool is relatively easy - GUI on the desktop and easy plug into OBD connector.
I have this one: It works very well, the SW does check for upgrades when it starts, claims that there is one, and then fails to download/install it. But other than that it's good. The GUI can remember 2 sets of tires for 4 different cars (5 wheels each, so if you have a car that has TPMS in the spare (Prius doesn't) you can monitor it too.
I had a link in the above reply but it disappeared: Amazon.com: ATEQ QuickSet TPMS Reset Tool: Automotive
