When a TPMS sensor fails and you install a new one, it comes with a brand-new ID (identifier). If this new ID does not match the one stored in your vehicle's TPMS ECU, the TPMS warning light may stay on.

This is where the Autel MX-Sensor comes in. As a programmable universal sensor, its ID can be rewritten. You can clone the old sensor's ID onto the new unit. When the copied ID is already stored in the vehicle and the new sensor is installed in the same wheel position, you can often skip a separate relearn procedure.

Below, we walk through four ways to program an Autel MX-Sensor using the Autel MaxiTPMS TS508.

Programming and relearning are different: Programming writes an ID to the MX-Sensor. Relearning registers a new sensor ID with the vehicle. If you use Auto Create to generate a new ID, you will need to perform the vehicle-specific relearn procedure afterward.

Before You Begin: Enter Programming Mode

Before you begin, make sure you have completed the following steps on your Autel TS508:

1. Select Advanced Mode.
2. Enter your vehicle's make, model, year, and frequency.
3. Scroll down and select Program Sensor to enter the programming menu.

4 Ways to Program an Autel MX-Sensor with the TS508

1. Copy by OBD

This method pulls the sensor ID directly from the vehicle's TPMS ECU.

Procedure: Connect the OBD cable to the vehicle's OBD-II port and turn the ignition on.

Read Data: The TS508 retrieves and displays the sensor IDs stored in the ECU.

Write Data: Select the faulty sensor location, such as Rear Left. Hold the new MX-Sensor close to the top of the tool, then press OK to write the ID.

If the copied ID is returned to the same wheel position, a separate TPMS relearn is generally not required.

2. Copy by Activation

Use this method if the old sensor is weak but can still be activated.

Procedure: Hold the TS508 near the old sensor and press the activation button to scan its ID.

Advantage: You do not need to connect the tool to the vehicle. The TS508 copies the old sensor ID directly to the new MX-Sensor.

3. Copy by Manual Input

If you already know the original sensor ID, usually printed on the sensor housing or obtained from another verified source, you can enter it manually.

Procedure: Select the correct decimal or hexadecimal ID format, enter the complete ID on the TS508, then place the MX-Sensor near the tool to complete programming.

4. Auto Create

Select this option if you need to replace multiple sensors at once or if the old sensor IDs are unavailable.

Procedure: Place 1–16 MX-Sensors close to the top of the tool. The TS508 will automatically generate and write a unique ID to each sensor.

Important: Auto-created IDs are different from the IDs stored in the vehicle. After installation, follow the vehicle-specific relearn procedure displayed on the TS508.

3 Requirements for Successful MX-Sensor Programming

• Compatibility: Use an Autel MX-Sensor with a compatible Autel TPMS tool for programming.
• Pressure Requirement: Tire pressure must be below 15 kPa during programming. It is recommended to program the sensor before installing it inside the tire.
• Wheel Position: Install a cloned sensor in the same wheel position as the original. If the wheel position or sensor ID changes, the vehicle may require a relearn.

Why Is the TPMS Light Still On After Programming?

Programming the replacement sensor does not fix every cause of a TPMS warning light. Check that all tires are inflated to the pressure listed on the vehicle placard, confirm that the correct vehicle and frequency were selected, and complete the required relearn procedure. A damaged sensor, incorrect wheel position, or TPMS system fault can also keep the light on.

Summary

Whether you are a professional technician or a DIYer, the Autel MX-Sensor paired with the TS508 provides four flexible programming methods. Use Copy by OBD, Copy by Activation, or Manual Input when the original ID is available. Use Auto Create when you need a new ID, then perform the required relearn.

For more sensor programming, relearn, and diagnostic options, browse our Autel TPMS tools and sensors.

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