Dealing with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light after getting new tires can be frustrating. Many car owners find themselves in a situation where they need to reprogram their TPMS sensors, especially after aftermarket installations or tire rotations. If you’re a Nissan Rogue Select owner facing this issue and looking for a DIY solution, understanding how to use a Scanner Tool To Put Car In Programming Mode for TPMS relearn is crucial. This guide will walk you through your options and help you get your TPMS system back on track without breaking the bank.
Understanding TPMS Re-learn Mode on Your Nissan Rogue Select
The TPMS is designed to alert you when tire pressure is significantly low. When you replace tires or sensors, sometimes the system needs to be “re-learned” or reprogrammed to recognize the new sensor IDs. While older Nissan models might have had simpler manual reset procedures, the Rogue Select, unfortunately, isn’t one of them. Simply grounding a connector, a trick that worked on some older Nissans, won’t do the job on this model. This is where a scanner tool to put car in programming mode becomes essential.
Scanner Tool Options for TPMS Programming: Finding the Right Fit
When it comes to putting your Nissan Rogue Select into TPMS re-learn mode, you have a few options for scanner tools, each with different price points and capabilities:
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Professional-Grade Scan Tools (Nissan Consult or Tech 2): These are the tools dealerships and professional mechanics use. They offer comprehensive functionality, including TPMS programming. However, they are typically very expensive, making them impractical for most DIYers.
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Aftermarket Bi-Directional Scan Tools: This is where you’ll find more affordable solutions. Bi-directional scan tools allow you to not only read diagnostic information but also send commands to the vehicle’s computer, such as initiating TPMS re-learn mode. Many brands offer bi-directional scanners at various price points. When searching, specifically look for scanners that list TPMS re-learn or programming capabilities for Nissan vehicles.
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Basic OBD-II Scanners (like OBD Fusion with Enhancements): While tools like OBD Fusion are excellent for diagnostics and reading codes, their advanced enhancements might still fall short of providing bi-directional control needed for TPMS re-learn initiation. They are primarily designed for reading data, not for putting a car into programming mode.
Step-by-Step with a Scanner Tool: Entering TPMS Re-learn Mode
The exact steps can vary depending on the scanner tool you choose, but generally, the process involves:
- Connecting the Scanner: Plug your scanner tool into the OBD-II port of your Nissan Rogue Select, usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Powering On and Identifying Vehicle: Turn on your vehicle’s ignition (no need to start the engine) and power on your scanner tool. Follow the scanner’s prompts to identify your vehicle (make, model, and year).
- Navigating to TPMS Function: Use the scanner’s menu to navigate to the TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring System section. Look for options like “Re-learn,” “Programming,” “Sensor ID Registration,” or similar terms.
- Initiating Re-learn Mode: Select the option to initiate TPMS re-learn mode. The scanner will then send a command to your Nissan’s computer to enter this mode.
- Sensor Activation (if required): Some systems might require you to “wake up” or activate each TPMS sensor after initiating re-learn mode. This often involves using a separate “transmission activation tool” (which are typically inexpensive) to trigger each sensor at each tire in a specific sequence. Your scanner tool’s instructions will guide you on this.
- Confirmation: Once the process is complete, the scanner tool should indicate successful TPMS re-learn. The TPMS light on your dashboard should turn off after driving for a short period.
Choosing the Right Scanner and Avoiding Tire Shop Returns
Investing in an appropriate scanner tool to put car in programming mode can save you time and money in the long run compared to repeated trips to a tire shop or dealership. When selecting a scanner, consider:
- Nissan Compatibility: Ensure the scanner explicitly states compatibility with Nissan vehicles and TPMS re-learn functions.
- Bi-Directional Capability: Confirm it’s a bi-directional scanner capable of sending commands, not just reading data.
- Budget: Balance features with your budget. There are reasonably priced bi-directional scanners that can handle TPMS re-learn.
By choosing the right scanner tool and understanding the process, you can confidently tackle TPMS programming on your Nissan Rogue Select and keep your tires – and your budget – in good shape.
