TPMS Valve Service Kit

2016 Tundra Crewmax - Looking at new tires and see a note that states a charge for "TPMS Valve Service Kit". And a separate charge for the install of that kit.

Upon reading the description i see the following note
" TPMS Valve Service Kit

Many vehicle manufacturers over the past several years have equipped many models with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). This equipment is designed to alert drivers to potential tire inflation issues. When a tire is replaced on these vehicles, a new TPMS valve service kit may be required, per the manufacturer."

The current stock wheels all have fully functional TPMS valves. Is this kit something that gets changed or updated everytime a new set of tires goes on the same rim?

Thanks - Tom

 

Lol, no. Unless you are getting the Low Tire warning on the dash, I see no need for this "kit". Seems like you might be being taken for a ride just based on what you provided.

 

As far as installation, there should not be a charge for that. The TPMS sensor installs very easily. It just like replacing a valve stem. The sensor batteries average about a 10 year life span. If yours were the original sensors, then it makes sense to change them since they would most likely start dying off before you replace tires again.

 

I would think the installer would at least ask the customer first before installing said kit to keep them informed prior and during installation of new tires. Seem prudent of a tire shop to do this as it shows transparency and avoid surprises like the one OP experienced.

 

That information is listed with one of our local auto care centers that feature Firestone family of tires. (Firestone, Bridgestone & Suredrive)
and as of today, no warning lights on the dash.

Im just in the inital stage of "research" for a good tire for the Tundra. Probably be a couple more months before i buy anything.

I never knew before hand that this kit "might be a thang" that we all pay for but was never advised about.

 

I would think that if you do not have a malfunctioning TPMS, then there is no need to have them replaced. I would agree with @Tundra234 about the install of the system if they are using your pre-existing ones or charging you for a new set but, as we all know, not all shops are created equal.

 

Update:

Note on the Service Kit Labor Charge


TPMS Valve Service Kit Labor

When our store installs a new Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Valve Service Kit, they are installing a new ferrule nut, valve cap and a nickel-plated valve core. The installation and torque adjustment of these parts requires additional time, and is necessary to set the equipment to manufacturers’ specifications.

 

That takes all of 2 minutes per wheel to install.

 

Seems like an attempt to grab more money, just like the mandatory "Shop supplies" fee they add to all invoices.

Or back in 2020 - the COVID cleaning spray they would apply to all vehicles.

 

I rather change the sensors, don’t know when them batteries will be gone

 

The “service kits” are new grey sleeve “nuts” with a new seal, valve core, and cap.

Discount Tire (at least the one by me) puts them on my truck every time they replace tires. But, I don’t see it on the bill.

I now have access to a tire machine and balancer, and picked up new tires for my daughter’s car. To save her $100, we took them carry out and mounted ourselves in 30 minutes. They gave me the kits. No charge.