To remind automotive technicians and service facilities that they must keep their TPMS-tool software updated regularly, a group of TPMS tool and sensor manufacturers, along with the Tire Industry Association (TIA), has launched a national public-service campaign called “Update Your TPMS Tools!”
The Coalition of TPMS Manufacturers, including ATEQ, Bartec, Continental and Schrader, along with the TIA, has come together to tackle the challenge faced by technicians who have not kept their TPMS-tool software up to date. Having up-to-date software is particularly essential with the introduction of the latest generation of TPMS sensors.
By updating their TPMS-tool software, technicians can prevent TPMS service issues and avoid unnecessary delays, ultimately delivering improved customer service. The launch of the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign coincides with National Tire Safety Week, an annual consumer-awareness initiative of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association aimed at educating motorists about tire care, safety and awareness as essential parts of road safety.
“TPMS tool manufacturers are routinely releasing software updates throughout the year,” said Shawn Pease, director of automotive tire service at the 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% 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, the coalition says. Without it, they cannot perform 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% of technicians surveyed don’t regularly perform the relearn when doing tire service, according to the coalition.
The “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign website offers links to software-update downloads for many of the most popular TPMS tools. Technicians also can check with their tool manufacturer’s website to find links for TPMS-tool software updates.
By engaging technicians and service facilities in the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign, TPMS manufacturers and the TIA seek to raise awareness about the crucial role of TPMS-tool software updates in delivering exceptional TPMS service. Technicians are encouraged to prioritize updating their tools regularly, ensuring they can provide efficient, reliable and seamless TPMS service to their valued customers.
