Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor and RF Diagnostic Tool Description and Operation

Radio Frequency Diagnostics 

Vehicles use radio frequency, or RF, for two systems - the tire pressure monitoring system and the keyless entry system. In both systems RF is used to transmit signals to and from components. There is no way to measure or detect RF signals using traditional tools. To assist in diagnosing these systems the EL-52545  Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor and RF Diagnostic Tool was introduced. This tool can detect RF signals. This allows for the verification of component functionality where it was previously impossible.

RDR (Rotate - Diagnose - Relearn) 

The RDR process is used anytime the vehicles Tire Pressure Monitoring System or tires are serviced. This includes tire rotation and any other tire service including a vehicle with the TPMS light on. It ensures that the TPMS sensors are functioning properly, the correct frequency for the vehicle being serviced, and prevents a stray sensor from being learned to the vehicle. There is a prompt asking if the vehicle has had a flat tire. Sometimes a vehicle that had a flat tire might have set a DTC for a TPMS Sensor which could lead to unnecessary replacement of a sensor. If the vehicle recently experienced a flat tire then the DTC only needs to be cleared.

RF Signal Detection 

The Signal Detect function is used to display the keyless entry transmitter identification including the last eight digits of the VIN associated with the transmitter, the transmitter ID, and the transmitter part number. It also has the ability to check the transmitter signal strength and to check the low frequency antennas on the vehicle. This also includes a function to detect the RF signal used for the Universal Garage Door Opener. The tool will display the frequency detected along with the strength of the signal. The strength of the signal can vary widely depending on many factors. Seeing a strength reading that appears low does not necessarily indicate a fault. A low signal may possibly be indicated if a the same signal is measured in the same manner on an identical vehicle and is shown to be much higher strength than the vehicle being diagnosed. The signal is sensitive to even a small distance and orientation of the tool. There is an on screen image reminding you to hold the tool in the correct position.

Trailer TPMS 

The Trailer TPMS feature is used to learn and simulate the Trailer TPM System. The tool can be used without the trailer present when the EL-52641 Trailer Presence Simulator Tester is used.

Tire Tread 

The tool can measure tire tread depth to provide a more accurate measurement.

Service 

The tool works with the available software to record service activity for the vehicle.

History 

The tool provides a history of the vehicle.

Settings 

The controls to change the available settings in the tool.

Other Makes 

The tool can also be used on non GM vehicles.