—
Why a TPMS Relearn Is Required on a Silverado
Every TPMS sensor broadcasts a unique ID. When you install new sensors—like the BL-ST-048 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Nevo | OE# 13530661, 13533166, 13538565—the truck’s body control module (BCM) or TPMS module doesn’t recognize the new IDs until you perform a relearn. Without it, the TPMS light stays on, and you get no tire pressure readings.
Silverado models from 2007 onward use 433MHz sensors, but the relearn method depends on the generation. Here’s the breakdown:
| Silverado Model Years | Relearn Type | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–2013 (GMT900) | Auto Relearn (drive) or Stationary Magnet | TPMS magnet (optional) |
| 2014–2018 (K2XX) | OBD Relearn or Stationary Magnet | TPMS scan tool (e.g., Autel TS508, Bartec) |
| 2019+ (T1XX) | OBD Relearn (mandatory) | TPMS scan tool with OBD function |
—
Method 1: Auto Relearn (2007–2013 Silverado)
This is the simplest method—no tools required beyond installation of the sensors. The Silverado learns the new IDs automatically as you drive.
Step-by-step:
- Install the new BL-ST-048 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Nevo | OE# 13530661, 13533166, 13538565 sensors in all four wheels.
- Ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended pressures (check driver door jamb sticker).
- Start the engine and drive the vehicle above 20 mph (32 km/h) for at least 10 minutes.
- The TPMS light should turn off after one or two drive cycles. If it stays on, repeat the drive.
Note: Auto relearn works only if all four sensors are new and the vehicle’s system is in “learn mode” during the drive. Some 2007–2010 models may require a second ignition cycle.
—
Method 2: Stationary Relearn (Magnet Method)
For older Silverados (2007–2013) and some 2014–2018 models, you can trigger a stationary relearn using an EL-50448 TPMS tool or a strong magnet.
Step-by-step (magnet method):
- Turn the ignition to ON (engine off).
- Press the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob simultaneously for 5 seconds. The horn will chirp twice, indicating learn mode.
- Starting with the left front tire, hold the magnet against the tire sidewall near the valve stem. The horn will chirp once to confirm the sensor is learned.
- Repeat for right front, right rear, and left rear (in that order).
- After the last chirp, turn the ignition OFF. The system is now relearned.
Important: This method requires a TPMS magnet. A generic fridge magnet won’t work—you need a tool rated for 433MHz sensor activation (strength of at least 100 gauss).
—
Method 3: OBD Relearn (2014+ Silverado)
Newer Silverados (2014 and up) do not support auto relearn. You must use an OBD-compatible TPMS tool to force the vehicle into learn mode and then activate each sensor.
Step-by-step:
- Connect your TPMS scan tool (e.g., Autel TS608, Bartech VP600) to the OBD-II port under the dash.
- Select “TPMS Relearn” and choose “Chevrolet Silverado” for your model year.
- Follow the tool’s prompts—it will tell you to start with the left front tire.
- Hold the TPMS triggering tool against the tire sidewall near the valve stem until the horn chirps or the tool confirms.
- Repeat for right front, right rear, left rear.
- Once all four are learned, the tool will exit learn mode, and the TPMS light should turn off on the next drive.
Tool cost: Entry-level OBD TPMS tools start around $80 (e.g., Autel TS401). Professional-grade models run $300+.
—
Recommended Part for Your Silverado
The BL-ST-048 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Nevo | OE# 13530661, 13533166, 13538565 is a 433MHz, pre-programmed clamp-in sensor that covers OE part numbers 13530661, 13533166, 13538565, and others. It’s a direct fit for 2007+ Silverado models. Because it’s pre-programmed, you don’t need to clone or copy IDs—just install and relearn.
—
FAQ
Can I use any 433MHz sensor on my Silverado?
Not exactly. The sensor must be compatible with GM’s TPMS protocol. The BL-ST-048 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Nevo | OE# 13530661, 13533166, 13538565 is specifically designed for GM vehicles (Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, including Silverado). Using a generic 433MHz sensor may not communicate correctly, especially on 2014+ models that require specific ID formats.
How do I know if my Silverado uses auto relearn or OBD relearn?
Check your owner’s manual. As a rule: 2007–2013 Silverados support auto relearn (drive cycle) or stationary magnet. 2014+ models must use OBD relearn. If your truck has a factory TPMS reset button (under the steering column), it’s likely a stationary relearn model.
My TPMS light is still on after the relearn. What went wrong?
First, verify all tire pressures are correct. Then confirm you activated each sensor in the correct order (LF, RF, RR, LR). On some 2014+ models, you may need to drive the vehicle for 5–10 minutes after the OBD procedure to finalize the learning. If the light remains, one sensor may be faulty or the battery may be dead.
Do I need to reprogram the sensors if I rotate tires?
Not if you use auto relearn. On 2007–2013 Silverados, the auto relearn will adjust to the new positions after a short drive. On 2014+ models, you’ll need to do a stationary relearn or use an OBD tool to resync the positions after a rotation.