I just bought an extra set of wheels to mount some summer tires on. They are chrome 5 spokes just like the ones that came with my 2008, but without TPMS sensors.

My question is what do I need to know in order to get a set of sensors that will work with my car?

Right now I am leaning towards getting the following kit from RockAuto for $291
http://www.dormanproducts.com/p-54787-974-515.aspx

 

Check with GMpartshouse.com (or other GM forum vendor) for the right part number. The early years from 05 up to I believe 10 used one sensor, while later models use a different sensor. The later sensors wont work with your 08.

 

Check on partstaxi.com and gmpartshouse.com for likely best prices.


Example from gmpartshouse.com:

 

I got mine from the Tire Rack for less than $200. You will also need the tool to calibrate them for another $100.

 

First of all....you'll need a set of tire pressure sensors like these - you can see the GM part# molded into the case - 25758220:



There are some aftermarket ones that will work also.


Second of all, you'll need to program your new set of sensors into the TPMS computer every time you swap wheels/tires/sensors. The memory in the TPMS computer only holds 4 sensor ID#'s.

The TPMS tool your looking at is a high-end tool and not necessary when simply swapping wheels on your Vette.

Here's a low-end tool for $68.57 - and if you google the part# of that tool you can find it cheaper than that:

https://gmspecialservicetools.spx.co...s.aspx?id=5677


The problem with the real low end tools are that although they will trigger the sensor in order to program them into the TPMS, if you have problems with a sensor you can't effectively do any diagnostic checks of the sensors.

Here is an intermediate level tool:



The TIPS and KTi are the same tool, just different colors. You can see 4 dots across the top of the tool - those are lights. There is a receiver in the tool that picks up the transmission from the sensor and illuminates those lights and the tool beeps to tell you the sensor is working properly. You can test a sensor in a wheel, or one your holding in your hand before installing it in order to make sure it's working properly and its internal battery is good.

Here is a high-end tool that I use:




This is the OTC 3833 and it's almost identical to the official GM tool, except it's loaded with software for ALL vehicles. It shows great info about the sensor on its screen:




The picture above is after doing a diagnostic check of a friend's GS sensor after it came off the track at Sebring - hence the 185°F temp!!


I have used TIPS and KTi tools available - $130 shipped.

I have 2 OTC 3833 tools - I'll sell one and keep the other for my personal use.

• One is just the tool
  
  
• The other is the tool with a carrying/storage case and a magnet for triggering C5 sensors

The OTC 3833 tool alone is $185 shipped.

The OTC 3833 with the case is $235 shipped.

BTW - I can provide a set of 4 used sensors for $110 shipped. They are all checked with my OTC 3833, work properly, show "Batt OK" on the tool, and have serviceable grommets, retaining nuts, and valve stem cores - i.e., they'll be ready to install in your new wheels.

If you buy sensors and a tool, I'll knock $15 off the total price for a package deal.

Bob

 

Nice write up!

I bought my tool used on the forum, don't recall how much, but it sure is handy when you need it.

 

Thank you BEZ06, PM sent

 

Just to sorta fill out this thread with info for 2010-2013 owners that may be reading, or searching in the future:

The 2010-2013 uses this green sensor - GM part# 15268606:




Or this black one - GM part# 20925924:




The TPMS computer is the same in all 2010-2013 C6 Vettes, and either sensor will work.

The 2010 and first half of 2011 model year production came with the green sensor.

In Jan 2011 they started putting in the black sensor.

The difference is that you MUST use a TPMS tool to trigger (force it to transmit its data) a black sensor but, while the green sensors will trigger with the transmission from a TPMS tool, they will also trigger by changing air pressure in the tire.

If you need some green ones for a replacement, or a set for a second set of wheels with seasonal tires or track tires, they are actually cheaper than the gray ones.

I have a set of 4 used green sensors for $95 shipped

$25 for each sensor if you just need 1 or 2.


If you need to program a new set of sensors into the TPMS computer memory in your car, the video below shows the procedure.

If you have the green sensors, you'd put the car into the learn mode just like in the video, but instead of using the tool you would just let air out for about 8 or 10 seconds at each wheel until you get the horn honk (double honk at the left rear) which confirms the sensor was triggered, sent out its data, and it was properly logged into the TPMS memory.

Bob

 

I have winter tires for my three other cars and require nothing when you install different tires and TPMS units.

When will GM get?

 

Do the other cars give an actual pressure readout like the C6, or just tell you if any tire is low? I've heard of systems that use tire diameter to sense a low tire, somewhat less accurate and might not work at all with runflats.

If the system does show actual pressure, how would your car know which sensors to read if you are beside another similar car with similar sensors?

Looking for an education here...

 

Actual pressure on the Acuras. The pickup is a Dodge (gift from my mother) and it only gives you a warning.

I don't know how it works, all I know is that it does on the Acuras.