SECTION 1 — OVERVIEW & FOUNDATION

Each PDQ TPMS sensor is assigned and broadcasts a unique ID code along with tire pressure and temperature data. The vehicle ECU stores these IDs and maps each one to a specific wheel position. Whenever sensor IDs or wheel positions change, the ECU must be updated through a relearn procedure.

PDQ Gen II sensors are fully compliant with all three OEM-specified relearn methods:

·         Stationary – GM Ford

·         Auto/Drive

o   Auto - Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

o   Drive – Mostly European Models

·         OBD – Mostly Asian Imports

All PDQ sensors undergo extensive testing for signal performance, operational temperature range, thermal shock, humidity, and proof pressure.

 

 

Figure: Programming vs Vehicle Relearn — two separate required steps

Step 1 — Sensor Programming

PDQ programmable sensors arrive blank and must be programmed to the specific year, make, and model using a compatible TPMS tool. Single-protocol sensors do not require programming — they are pre-configured from the factory for a specific vehicle application.

Step 2 — Vehicle Relearn

After sensors are installed, the vehicle ECU must learn each sensor's unique ID and the wheel position it occupies. This step is required even when reusing original OE sensors after a tire rotation — positions change, so the mapping must be updated.

When is a Relearn Required?

•       Tire Rotation — Sensors move to new corners; the ECU retains old ID-to-position mapping until a relearn updates it.

•       Sensor Replacement — A new PDQ sensor has a different ID; the ECU will not recognize it until a relearn is completed.

•       Wheel / Tire Swap — Installing a different set of wheels brings different sensor IDs; a full 4-sensor relearn is required.

•       ECU Reset or Battery Disconnect — Some vehicles lose TPMS sensor memory; a relearn restores the correct mapping.

•       Spare Tire Installed — Using a TPMS-equipped spare and reinstalling regular tires may require a relearn on some platforms.

 

PDQ Sensor Types

PDQ sensors are available in two valve stem configurations. Both support 315 MHz and 433 MHz dual-band frequencies and include WAL (Wireless Auto-Learn) technology.

Figure: PDQ TPMS Sensor Types — Snap-In (rubber) and Clamp-In (aluminum)

Standard Wheel Activation Sequence

Most stationary relearn procedures follow Left Front → Right Front → Right Rear → Left Rear. Always verify with OEM service data or the PDQ-41 tool's built-in vehicle library for the specific year, make, and model.

Figure: Standard TPMS relearn wheel activation order: LF → RF → RR → LR (LF Highlighted in Yellow)

The process is performed with a Properly Formatted TPMS Tool like PDQ VT-41.   Check the tool for up to date software by using the WEBvt app.  This app can be downloaded from www.ateq.com 

 

Order	Position	Abbreviation	Notes
1	Left Front	LF	Always start here — most common OEM requirement
2	Right Front	RF	Second activation in standard sequence
3	Right Rear	RR	Third activation — clockwise rotation pattern
4	Left Rear	LR	Final sensor — double horn chirp often confirms completion

 

▸ PDQ Reference: The PDQ-41 tool displays the exact activation sequence for every supported vehicle on-screen.

 

 

Keep Your PDQ-41 Tool Software Updated

Outdated tool software is a leading cause of failed relearns. New vehicles, revised sensor protocols, and updated OBD relearn routines are added regularly. The PDQ-41 receives up to 5 years of free software updates — check for updates at least once per month using WEBvt app downloadable at www.ateq.com

•       Check for PDQ-41 software updates at minimum once per month

•       Register your tool with PDQ to receive automatic update notifications

•       Outdated tools may fail to recognize new sensor models or lack OBD relearn routines for recently introduced vehicles

•       Updates add new vehicle coverage, bug fixes, and improved sensor protocol detection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 — THE THREE RELEARN PROCEDURES

All PDQ Gen II sensors are fully compatible with each of the three OEM-specified relearn methods. Identify which method applies to the vehicle before beginning service — using the wrong method will result in a failed relearn and a persistent TPMS warning light.

  METHOD 1  ·  Stationary Relearn 

Stationary / TPMS Activation Tool Method

A handheld TPMS service tool is placed over each valve stem to trigger the sensor to broadcast its unique ID. The vehicle must first be placed into learn mode via a manufacturer-specified key or pedal sequence. A horn chirp confirms each successful sensor read. No driving is required.

Figure: Stationary relearn — PDQ-41 tool activates each sensor at the valve stem

Step-by-Step Procedure

#	Step	Description
01	Set Tire Pressures	Inflate all tires to door placard specification. Low pressure may prevent sensors from activating correctly.
02	Enter Learn Mode	Perform the OEM-specified key cycle, brake pedal sequence, or button press. Horn chirp or DIC message confirms entry.
03	Activate Left Front	Hold tool flat at tire sidewall near valve stem. Press activate. Wait for horn confirmation before moving on.
04	Continue Sequence	Activate RF, then RR, then LR in OEM-specified order. Do not skip a wheel or reverse the sequence.
05	Confirm Completion	After the final sensor, the vehicle exits learn mode automatically. Double horn chirp confirms completion.

 

 

  METHOD 2  ·  Auto / Drive Relearn 

Auto / Drive-Cycle Relearn Method

The vehicle re-learns sensor positions automatically while being driven above a minimum threshold speed for a specified duration. No TPMS activation tool is required. PDQ's WAL (Wireless Auto-Learn) technology ensures sensors transmit reliably at all required speeds and intervals.

 

Figure: Drive relearn — minimum 25 mph, continuous driving for 7–20 minutes

 

Requirement	Specification
Minimum speed	25 mph (40 km/h) — verify OEM data, some require higher
Drive duration	7 to 20 minutes continuous — varies by vehicle platform
Interruptions	Do not stop below threshold — may reset the learning timer
Confirmation	TPMS warning light extinguishes when all 4 sensors are learned

 

 

 

Step-by-Step Procedure

#	Step	Description
01	Inflate to Spec	Inflate all tires to placard value. TPMS light on is expected at this point.
02	Exceed Threshold	Maintain speed above 25 mph. Some vehicles require 28 mph or higher — check OEM data.
03	Drive Continuously	Do not stop. Highway driving is ideal. PDQ WAL technology transmits reliably throughout.
04	Allow 7–20 Minutes	Drive for the required duration. The ECU collects enough transmission cycles to confirm each sensor position.
05	Confirm Light Off	TPMS warning light extinguishing confirms all four sensors learned to their positions.

 

 

  METHOD 3  ·  OBDII / Scan Tool Relearn 

OBDII / Scan Tool Relearn Method

A TPMS scan tool activates and reads all four sensor IDs, then writes them directly to the TPMS control module via the OBD-II port. The fastest and most reliable method — no driving required. Also supports the Copy-ID function where existing IDs can be cloned to new PDQ sensors, eliminating the need for a separate relearn on many platforms.

Figure: OBD relearn — sensor IDs collected and written to ECU via OBD-II port

 

Copy-ID Function — Time-Saving Workflow

When installing new PDQ programmable sensors, use Copy-ID to scan original IDs before removal, then program those IDs into the replacement sensors. The ECU already recognizes those IDs — no relearn required on many platforms. Recommended whenever original sensors can be read prior to replacement.

Step-by-Step Procedure

#	Step	Description
01	Read All Sensor IDs	Use PDQ-41 to activate and read each sensor at all four wheels. Store IDs with correct wheel position assignments.
02	Assign Positions	Verify the tool has correctly mapped each sensor ID to LF, RF, RR, LR. Incorrect mapping gives wrong pressure readings.
03	Connect to OBD-II	Turn ignition to ON, engine off. Connect PDQ-41 to OBD-II port under the dash. Confirm vehicle communication established.
04	Execute Relearn/Write	Run the Relearn or Program function. The tool writes all four sensor IDs to the TPMS control module via CAN bus.
05	Verify & Clear Codes	Confirm all 4 sensors appear in readout. Clear any TPMS DTCs. Test drive to confirm warning light extinguishes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3 — SPECIAL VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS

Some vehicles require additional tools or unique steps beyond the standard three procedures. Always verify with OEM service data or a current TPMS reference database before servicing these models.

 

Make / Platform	Special Requirement	Details
Nissan / Infiniti	Reset initiator tool required	A dedicated TPMS reset tool must be used in addition to the activation tool to place the system in learn mode first.
Lexus / Toyota (select)	Main + Second switch	Some models require both a main switch and a secondary switch to be pressed in sequence before accepting activations.
Honda Civic (select years)	Pressure-drop relearn	Each tire must be deflated below 8 psi for at least 1 minute, then re-inflated. Triggers a special learn-mode broadcast.
Chrysler/RAM/Jeep 2014+	OBD only — no stationary	2014+ FCA/Stellantis platforms removed stationary relearn entirely. OBD-capable scan tool is mandatory.
BMW / Mini	iDrive reset first	Tire pressure reset must be initiated via iDrive infotainment menu before driving. Then drive above 19 mph.
Mercedes-Benz	COMAND/MBUX reset first	Reset via COMAND or MBUX, then drive above 25 mph for at least 10 minutes to complete auto-relearn.
Ford / Lincoln	Check model year	Some newer platforms require OBD. Brake-pedal learn mode entry varies. Verify with PDQ-41 vehicle library.
VW / Audi	VCDS or scan tool reset	Infotainment or scan tool TPMS reset required before driving on many platforms.

 

SECTION 4 — QUICK REFERENCE BY MANUFACTURER

Starting-point reference only. Always verify against OEM service data or the PDQ-41 tool's built-in vehicle library for the specific year, make, and model.

Make	Common Models	Method	Tool Required	Notes
General Motors	Silverado, Tahoe, Equinox, Cadillac	Stationary	TPMS tool	Horn chirp confirms each sensor. Key-cycle entry.
Ford / Lincoln	F-150, Explorer, Escape, Mustang	Stationary	TPMS tool	Hold brake 3× for learn mode. Newer platforms may need OBD.
Chrysler/RAM/Jeep	RAM 1500, Wrangler, Grand Cherokee	OBD / Stationary*	OBD scan tool	2014+ OBD only. *Pre-2014 may use stationary.
Toyota	Camry, RAV4, Tacoma, Tundra, Prius	Drive / Auto	None	Select models need main + second switch first.
Honda / Acura	Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot, MDX	Drive / Auto	None	Civic uses pressure-drop on select years.
Nissan / Infiniti	Altima, Rogue, Frontier, Q50	Stationary	Tool + reset initiator	Reset initiator required on most models.
Hyundai / Kia	Elantra, Tucson, Sorento, Sportage	Drive / Auto	None	Drive above 25 mph for approx. 10 minutes.
Subaru	Outback, Forester, Impreza, Crosstrek	Drive / Auto	None	Info display reset available on select models.
Mazda	CX-5, Mazda3, CX-30, CX-50	Drive / Auto	None	Drive above 28 mph. Select models have glove box reset.
BMW / Mini	3 Series, 5 Series, X3, X5	Drive / Auto	iDrive reset	Initiate via iDrive menu, then drive above 19 mph.
Mercedes-Benz	C-Class, E-Class, GLE, GLC	Drive / Auto	COMAND/MBUX reset	Reset via infotainment, drive 10+ min above 25 mph.
VW / Audi	Golf, Jetta, Passat, A4, Q5	Drive / OBD	VCDS or scan tool	Infotainment or scan tool reset before driving.

Reference only — verify with OEM service data or PDQ-41 vehicle library for specific year/make/model.

 

SECTION 5 — SERVICE KITS & BEST PRACTICES

Vehicle manufacturers specify that all valve stem hardware must be replaced at every tire change. These components are single-use by design — reusing them risks slow leaks, galvanic corrosion, and premature seal failure.

Figure: PDQ TPMS Service Kit components — replace at every tire service

Component	Why Replace	Snap-In	Clamp-In
Valve core	Heat/pressure cycles degrade the rubber seal. A reused core risks slow leaks.	✓	✓
Valve cap (with seal)	Rubber seal prevents moisture at the valve seat. Replace every service.	✓	✓
Grommet / O-ring	Primary seal between stem and rim hole. Permanently deforms on first use — cannot re-seal reliably.	✓	✓
Mounting nut	Anodized to prevent galvanic corrosion. Re-torquing damages threads.	—	✓
Mounting screw	Self-tapping single-use fastener — will not achieve proper thread engagement if reused.	—	✓

 

 

Keep Your PDQ-41 Tool Software Updated

Outdated tool software is a leading cause of failed relearns. New vehicles, revised sensor protocols, and updated OBD relearn routines are added regularly. The PDQ-41 receives up to 5 years of free software updates — check for updates at least once per month using WEBvt app downloadable at www.ateq.com

•       Check for PDQ-41 software updates at minimum once per month

•       Register your tool with PDQ to receive automatic update notifications

•       Outdated tools may fail to recognize new sensor models or lack OBD relearn routines for recently introduced vehicles

•       Updates add new vehicle coverage, bug fixes, and improved sensor protocol detection

SECTION 6 — ABOUT PDQ TPMS

PDQ TPMS is a wholly owned brand of Revolution Supply Co., an American company that has been engineering and manufacturing OE-quality TPMS sensors since 2006. Headquartered in Santa Ana, California, PDQ designs and develops all products in the United States.

 

Product Line Overview

Programmable Gen II Sensors (315/433 MHz): Universal programmable sensors covering the vast majority of TPMS-equipped vehicles. Compatible with all three relearn methods.

Single Protocol Sensors: Pre-configured for a specific vehicle application. No programming required — ideal for high-volume service centers with a predictable vehicle mix.

Multi Protocol Sensors: Covers multiple vehicle applications without programming. Ideal for shops servicing diverse vehicle types.

TPMS Service Kits: Complete hardware for snap-in and clamp-in sensor applications. All single-use components for a proper, leak-free installation.

PDQ-41 TPMS Tool: Full-function programming and diagnostic tool. Supports activation, programming, OBD relearn, Copy-ID, and fault code diagnosis. 5 years of free updates.

 

Key Differentiators

•       OE standards — manufactured to exacting specifications matching original equipment quality

•       WAL (Wireless Auto-Learn) technology — reliable transmission at all relearn-required speeds and intervals

•       99% vehicle coverage — 2007 to present model years

•       Dual frequency 315 MHz and 433 MHz — one sensor covers both frequency bands

•       2-year product warranty — sensors rated for 5+ years of normal use

•       Engineered and developed by US staff in Santa Ana, California since 2006

•       Compatible with all major TPMS programming tools on the market