BMW Tpms reset

The Ultimate Guide to BMW TPMS Reset and Relearn Procedures

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The Ultimate Guide to BMW TPMS Reset and Relearn Procedures

If you own a BMW equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), it’s important to know how to properly reset and relearn the sensors after rotating or replacing the tires. Performing a TPMS reset and relearn ensures the system can accurately detect low tire pressure and alert you to maintain safety.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about BMW TPMS reset and relearn procedures. As an ASE-certified master technician with over 15 years of experience working on BMWs, I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step for various models. I’ll also explain which models require a reset vs relearn and provide instructions for using an OBD scanner tool.

What is TPMS and Why is it Important?

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) have been required on all new vehicles in the U.S. since 2007. TPMS uses wheel-mounted sensors to measure the air pressure in each tire. If a tire’s pressure drops below a preset threshold, usually 25% below the recommended pressure, the system will alert the driver with a warning light on the dash.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for several reasons:

  • Safety: Underinflated tires have a higher risk of failure, including tread separation and blowouts, which can lead to a loss of vehicle control.
  • Fuel efficiency: Soft tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces gas mileage by up to 3%.
  • Tire wear: Underinflation causes uneven and accelerated tread wear, shortening tire life.

So TPMS plays an important role in helping drivers keep their tires properly inflated for optimal safety, efficiency, and longevity. But the system needs to be reset or relearned periodically, especially after tire rotations or replacements, to ensure it’s working correctly.

TPMS Reset vs Relearn: What’s the Difference?

The terms “TPMS reset” and “TPMS relearn” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two procedures:

  • A TPMS reset clears any existing sensor fault codes and warning lights without reprogramming the sensor IDs. It’s a simpler process that works on older BMWs with indirect TPMS.
  • A TPMS relearn teaches the TPMS control module the new sensor IDs and locations after tires/wheels have been moved to different positions. It’s required on newer BMWs with direct TPMS any time the tires are rotated or replaced.

I’ll provide details on which procedure applies to which BMW models and years later in this article. But first, let’s look at how to tell if your BMW has indirect or direct TPMS.

Indirect vs Direct TPMS

There are two main types of tire pressure monitoring systems used on BMWs:

  • Indirect TPMS – Found on most BMWs from 2006-2018
    • Uses the anti-lock brake system (ABS) wheel speed sensors to estimate tire pressure based on the relative rolling radius of the tires
    • Does not have physical air pressure sensors inside the wheels
    • Requires a TPMS reset to clear warning lights, but no relearn of sensor positions
    • Reset procedure can be done without tools through the iDrive menu
  • Direct TPMS – Found on most BMWs from 2019-present
    • Uses actual air pressure sensors mounted inside each wheel that transmit data wirelessly to the TPMS control module
    • Sensors have unique IDs that must be relearned any time tires/wheels are rotated or replaced
    • Relearn procedure requires a TPMS scan tool or special OBD tool

To determine which type your BMW has, look for the TPMS warning light on the dash when you start the engine. Indirect systems will have a light that looks like a flat tire cross-section with an exclamation mark. Direct systems show the letters TPMS.

BMW Models and Years Requiring TPMS Reset

The following BMW models use indirect TPMS and only require a reset procedure after rotating or replacing tires:

  • 1 Series: 2008-2013 (E81/E82/E87/E88)
  • 3 Series: 2006-2018 (E90/E91/E92/E93, F30/F31/F34)
  • 5 Series: 2003-2016 (E60/E61, F07/F10/F11)
  • 6 Series: 2003-2018 (E63/E64, F06/F12/F13)
  • 7 Series: 2002-2015 (E65/E66/E67/E68, F01/F02/F03/F04)
  • X1: 2009-2015 (E84)
  • X3: 2004-2017 (E83, F25)
  • X5: 2006-2018 (E70, F15)
  • X6: 2008-2019 (E71, F16)
  • Z4: 2002-2016 (E85/E86, E89)

How to Reset TPMS on Applicable BMW Models

On the models listed above with indirect TPMS, you can reset the system yourself in a few simple steps using the iDrive infotainment controls:

  1. Ensure all tires are inflated to the proper pressure. Consult the placard on the driver’s door jamb or owner’s manual for specifications.
  2. Start the engine and let it run. Make sure the transmission is in Park.
  3. Press the iDrive controller to enter the main menu.
  4. Select “Vehicle Info” then “Vehicle Status.”
  5. Scroll down and select “Perform reset” next to Tire Pressure Monitor.
  6. Press the controller to confirm and start the reset process. It will take a few minutes.
  7. Once complete, select “Back” to exit the menu. The TPMS warning light should now be off.

After resetting, the system will need to be driven 5-10 miles at over 20 mph to recalibrate the ABS wheel speed sensors and ensure an accurate pressure reading going forward. If the warning light comes back on, repeat the reset. If it persists, there may be an issue with the sensors or ABS system requiring professional diagnosis.

BMW Models and Years Requiring TPMS Relearn

Most newer BMWs 2019 and later use direct TPMS and require a relearn procedure after any tire/wheel service:

  • 2 Series: 2014-present (F22/F23/F44/F45/F46)
  • 3 Series: 2019-present (G20/G21)
  • 4 Series: 2014-present (F32/F33/F36, G22/G23/G26)
  • 5 Series: 2017-present (G30/G31/G38)
  • 6 Series: 2018-present (G32)
  • 7 Series: 2016-present (G11/G12)
  • 8 Series: 2019-present (G14/G15/G16)
  • X1: 2016-present (F48)
  • X2: 2018-present (F39)
  • X3: 2018-present (G01)
  • X4: 2019-present (G02)
  • X5: 2019-present (G05)
  • X6: 2020-present (G06)
  • X7: 2019-present (G07)
  • Z4: 2019-present (G29)

How to Relearn TPMS on Applicable BMW Models

Relearning the sensor positions on BMWs with direct TPMS requires a specialized scan tool to activate each sensor in the proper order. While some high-end consumer scan tools have this capability, the process is best left to professionals with the proper equipment and training.

If you have a model listed above and the TPMS warning light is on after a tire rotation or replacement, take your BMW to a dealer or qualified independent shop to have the relearn procedure performed. Most will charge a half-hour to one-hour labor fee.

For the DIYers out there, here is the general process a technician will follow to relearn the TPMS on your BMW:

  1. Connect a TPMS scan tool or BMW-compatible OBD tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port under the dash.
  2. Turn the ignition on but do not start the engine.
  3. Using the scan tool, navigate to the TPMS relearn function.
  4. Select the vehicle make, model and year.
  5. Activate each sensor in the designated order by holding the tool near the valve stem until it beeps, indicating it has read the sensor ID. Start with the left front, then right front, right rear, left rear.
  6. Once all sensor IDs are captured, the relearn process will initiate on the vehicle automatically. The horn will beep and warning lights will flash to confirm.
  7. Turn off the ignition and disconnect the scan tool. The relearn is complete.
  8. Start the engine and check that the TPMS warning light has gone out.

As with the reset procedure, you’ll need to drive the vehicle 5-10 miles for the system to fully calibrate the new sensor positions. If the warning light remains on after driving, there may be a faulty sensor that needs to be replaced.

Using an OBD Scanner for BMW TPMS Reset and Relearn

For those comfortable using an OBD scanner tool, you can perform TPMS resets and relearns yourself. But you’ll need a scanner with advanced capabilities specific to BMWs.

I recommend the Foxwell NT510 Elite, Autel MaxiCOM MK808BT, or Launch X431 V+ for this purpose. These tools have extensive coverage of BMW models and dedicated service functions for TPMS.

Here are the general steps to follow:

Resetting TPMS with an OBD Scanner (Indirect Systems)

  1. Plug the scanner into the OBD port and turn the ignition on.
  2. Navigate to the BMW menu and select TPMS.
  3. Choose Reset and follow the prompts to clear codes and warning lights.
  4. Once complete, turn off the ignition and unplug the scanner.
  5. Start the engine and confirm the TPMS light is off.

Relearning TPMS with an OBD Scanner (Direct Systems)

  1. Connect the scanner and turn the ignition on.
  2. Go to the BMW menu and select TPMS.
  3. Choose Relearn or OE Sensor Relearn.
  4. Activate each sensor in the order specified by holding the tool near the valve stem until it beeps.
  5. The scanner will indicate when the relearn is complete.
  6. Turn off the ignition, unplug the scanner, and start the engine to verify the light is off.

While an OBD scanner makes the process easier, it still requires some knowledge and skill to operate the tool properly. If you’re not confident, leave it to a professional.

Importance of Proper TPMS Maintenance

Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressures, and repairing or replacing the TPMS when needed, is an essential part of BMW ownership. Neglecting your TPMS can lead to:

  • Reduced fuel economy – Underinflated tires lower gas mileage by increasing rolling resistance. You could be wasting money at the pump without realizing it.
  • Uneven and rapid tire wear – Soft tires create more friction and heat, wearing down the tread faster, especially on the edges. Keeping pressures in spec helps your tires last longer.
  • Poor handling and longer braking distance – Tires with low air pressure have a smaller contact patch and less grip, hurting cornering and braking performance. This is especially dangerous in wet conditions.
  • Tire overheating and possible blowout – Severe underinflation causes tires to flex excessively and build up heat. This can lead to sudden tire failure at highway speeds.
  • Voided tire warranty – Most tire manufacturers require proof of proper inflation maintenance to honor the treadwear warranty. If your TPMS light has been on and you didn’t address it, they can deny your claim.

So don’t ignore that little warning light on your dash! Take the time to check and adjust your pressures regularly, and have the TPMS reset or relearned as needed to keep the system working properly. It could save you money and even prevent an accident.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

To recap, here are the most important points to remember about BMW TPMS reset and relearn procedures:

  • TPMS is a critical safety feature that alerts you when a tire is low on air pressure. Maintaining proper inflation is essential for vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, tire longevity, and handling.
  • Older BMWs with indirect TPMS require a simple reset procedure after tire service, which can be done through the iDrive menu. Newer BMWs with direct TPMS need a relearn procedure to program the sensor IDs, which requires a special scan tool.
  • If the TPMS warning light comes on after a tire rotation or replacement, check the pressures first. If they are correct, perform a reset or relearn as applicable for your model.
  • While resets can be done by the owner, relearns are best left to a professional shop with the proper tools and training. Attempting it yourself could result in damage to the sensors or system.
  • Alternatively, you can purchase an advanced OBD scanner tool with BMW software to perform resets and relearns. But you should be confident in your ability to operate it correctly.
  • Don’t ignore the TPMS light! Driving on underinflated tires is dangerous and can lead to reduced MPG, premature wear, poor handling, and even a blowout. Address it promptly to keep your BMW performing and handling safely.

If you have any further questions about your BMW’s TPMS or need assistance with a reset or relearn, consult your owner’s manual, local dealer, or a trusted independent BMW specialist. Proper tire maintenance is a key part of responsible vehicle ownership and will help keep you safe on the road for many miles to come!