Understanding SIERRA TPMS Compatibility
When you’re replacing a TPMS sensor on a SIERRA truck or SUV, the biggest mistake is assuming all 433MHz sensors are interchangeable. The BH-Sens BL-ST-059 (also sold under Baolong Technology) is a programmable or pre-programmed 433MHz sensor that covers a wide range of GM vehicles — including SIERRA — but the fitment is year-specific and trim-specific.
SIERRA vehicles from the 2007–2024 model years typically use either 315MHz or 433MHz sensors. The BL-ST-059 operates at 433MHz, so if your SIERRA uses 315MHz sensors (common on older models or certain base trims), this sensor will not work regardless of the OE number match.
Which SIERRA Models Does the BL-ST-059 Fit?
Based on the OE numbers cross-referenced with GM’s TPMS system, the BL-ST-059 fits the following SIERRA applications:
| SIERRA Model | Year Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SIERRA 1500 | 2014–2022 | Most trims use 433MHz; verify by checking OE# on old sensor |
| SIERRA 2500HD | 2015–2022 | Heavy-duty models often share sensors with 1500 series |
| SIERRA 3500HD | 2015–2022 | Same sensor family; confirm frequency before purchase |
| SIERRA Denali | 2014–2022 | Denali trims use the same 433MHz system |
| SIERRA AT4 | 2019–2022 | AT4 uses standard GM TPMS; BL-ST-059 fits |
Important: SIERRA models before 2014 (particularly 2007–2013) often use 315MHz sensors. The BL-ST-059 is not compatible with those. If your SIERRA is from 2013 or earlier, you need a 315MHz sensor unless you’ve verified your system was updated.
How to Verify Fitment Before Buying
Follow this step-by-step process to ensure the BL-ST-059 works on your SIERRA:
Step 1: Locate Your Original Sensor Part Number
Remove the tire, or look at the valve stem area. The sensor has a part number stamped on it (e.g., 13516165, 13522631, 13540603). Compare it to the list of OE numbers for BL-ST-059: 13516165, 13522631, 13540603, 13544442, 13544444, 13581561, 13598773, 13598787, 20922901, 22853740, 25789964, 26407897, 3617020001B15A. If your number matches, the sensor is compatible.
Step 2: Check the Frequency
Look for a “433MHz” marking on the old sensor. If it says 315MHz, the BL-ST-059 will not work. You can also check your owner’s manual or call a dealer with your VIN to confirm the TPMS frequency.
Step 3: Verify the Valve Stem Type
SIERRA trucks use either rubber snap-in valves or metal clamp-in valves. The BL-ST-059 is designed for rubber snap-in valves (the valve stem is part of the sensor). If your SIERRA uses metal clamp-in sensors (where the valve stem is separate), this sensor won’t fit physically.
Step 4: Check Your Tire Pressure Monitoring System Generation
GM used different TPMS generations. The BL-ST-059 is compatible with Generation 2 and Generation 3 systems (found on 2014+ SIERRA). Generation 1 systems (2007–2013) use a different signal protocol. If your SIERRA was built before 2014, the BL-ST-059 likely won’t communicate with your vehicle’s receiver.
Why Year Coverage Matters More Than You Think
SIERRA changed TPMS suppliers and protocols between model years. Even within the same generation (2014–2018 vs. 2019+), there can be subtle differences in how sensors are programmed. The BL-ST-059 is a multi-application sensor that can be programmed to match your vehicle’s ID, but only if the hardware is compatible.
Example: A 2017 SIERRA 1500 and a 2021 SIERRA 1500 both use 433MHz, but the 2021 model may require a sensor with a different programming protocol. The BL-ST-059 covers both because it’s from Baolong (BH-Sens), which is an original equipment supplier for GM. That means it uses the same internal chipset as the factory sensor.
Other Vehicle Brands the BL-ST-059 Fits (Confirms GM Compatibility)
The BL-ST-059 also fits BAIC, Baic Ev, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and 15 more brands. This is helpful because GM often shares parts across its brands. If you see a sensor listed for a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, it will almost certainly fit the same-year SIERRA — the vehicles share the same TPMS system.
For example:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2014–2022) uses the same sensor as SIERRA 1500
- Cadillac Escalade (2015–2022) uses the same 433MHz sensor
- Buick Enclave (2018–2022) uses the same sensor family
This cross-brand compatibility means if you’re sourcing a sensor for a SIERRA, and you find a part number that matches a Buick or Chevrolet, it’s likely the same unit. But always verify the OE number on your old sensor — that’s the only foolproof method.
Common Fitment Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming 315MHz and 433MHz are interchangeable: They are not. The vehicle’s receiver only picks up one frequency.
- Buying based on vehicle year alone: Some 2014 SIERRA trucks were built with leftover 2013 parts. Check your production date (on the driver door jamb sticker) — if it’s early 2014, you might still have a 315MHz system.
- Ignoring the valve stem style: The BL-ST-059 uses a rubber snap-in valve. If your SIERRA has metal clamp-in sensors (common on heavy-duty trucks with steel wheels), you need a different sensor.
- Not programming the sensor: The BL-ST-059 may come pre-programmed for some OE numbers, but if your vehicle requires a specific sensor ID, you’ll need a TPMS programming tool. Most tire shops can do this in under 5 minutes.
Recommended Part: BH-Sens BL-ST-059
If you’ve verified that your SIERRA uses 433MHz sensors and your OE number is one of the 14 listed, the BL-ST-059 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits BAIC, Baic Ev, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet & 15 More | OE# 13516165, 13522631, 13540603 is a direct replacement. It matches the original Baolong technology used in GM’s supply chain, so you’re not buying a generic aftermarket sensor that may fail in a year. It’s the same quality as the factory part at a fraction of the dealer price.
FAQ
How do I know if my SIERRA uses 433MHz or 315MHz TPMS sensors?
Check the label on the sensor itself (visible when the tire is removed) — it will say “433MHz” or “315MHz.” Alternatively, look up your VIN on a GM parts site or call a dealer with your VIN. For 2014–2022 SIERRA models, the vast majority use 433MHz, but early 2014 builds may still use 315MHz.
Can I install the BL-ST-059 on a 2008 SIERRA 1500?
No. The BL-ST-059 is a 433MHz sensor, and 2008 SIERRA models use 315MHz sensors. The signal protocols are also different (Generation 1 vs. Generation 2). You would need a 315MHz sensor for a 2008 SIERRA.
What if my SIERRA has metal clamp-in valve sensors?
The BL-ST-059 is a rubber snap-in style sensor. It will not physically fit vehicles that use metal clamp-in sensors (typically found on heavy-duty trucks with steel rims or specific fleet packages). Check your current sensor: if the valve stem is a separate metal piece that clamps into the wheel, you need a clamp-in sensor, not the BL-ST-059.
Does the BL-ST-059 come pre-programmed for my SIERRA?
It depends on the seller. Some versions are pre-programmed for specific OE numbers (like 13516165 or 13522631). Others are blank and require programming with a TPMS tool. Always confirm with the seller whether the sensor is pre-programmed or needs to be programmed after installation. If you don’t have a programming tool, choose a pre-programmed option that matches your OE number.