Why a Relearn Is Necessary
A TPMS relearn is not the same as programming a new sensor. When you install a new tire pressure sensor — or rotate wheels/tires so a sensor moves to a different corner — the car’s TPMS module still remembers the old sensor IDs, but it does not know which physical corner each sensor is on. The relearn procedure tells the module to listen for each sensor’s ID in a set order and assign it to the correct position.
Skipping the relearn will either leave the TPMS light on or show the wrong tire pressure for each wheel. Since DTS models often share platforms with MG, Roewe, Rising, and IM vehicles, the relearn logic is very similar, but always confirm the exact procedure for your specific model year in the owner’s manual.
Tools You Will Need
Before starting any relearn, check the sensor frequency printed on the metal valve stem (or on the old sensor). The vast majority of DTS passenger cars use 433MHz – not 315MHz. A quick verification saves you from buying the wrong part.
You do not necessarily need a full diagnostic scan tool for all methods. Here is what you might need:
| Method | Required Tools | Best Used When |
|---|---|---|
| Auto relearn | None (or a manual reset button) | After tire rotation with existing, working sensors |
| OBD relearn | Autel, Launch, or similar TPMS-capable OBD scanner | Installing brand-new aftermarket sensors, or when you want confirmation of learned IDs |
| Stationary relearn | TPMS trigger tool (e.g. Autel MaxiTPMS), small screwdriver or paperclip for reset button | When the car doesn’t support auto relearn, or when you need to learn sensors in a building/garage |
Method 1: Auto Relearn (Drive Cycle)
Some DTS models support a simple drive-cycle relearn. This works only if the car is already in “relearn mode” and can learn each sensor ID automatically as you drive.
- With the car parked and ignition ON (engine off or running, depending on the system), press the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure warning light blinks twice. The button is usually under the steering column, near the hood release, or in the glovebox.
- Start driving immediately. Drive straight at speeds above 15–20 mph for roughly 5–10 minutes.
- The car will learn each wheel’s sensor ID as it receives the RF signals. You do not need to drive in circles on many models – normal driving handles it.
- When the TPMS light stops blinking and stays off, the relearn is complete.
If the light continues blinking after 20 minutes of driving, either one sensor signal is not being received or your model uses a different method. Do not repeat this endlessly – move to the OBD or stationary procedure.
Method 2: OBD Relearn
OBD relearn is the fastest and most reliable current method. It requires a scanner that supports TPMS relearn – not every generic OBD2 code reader can do it.
- Connect the TPMS-capable diagnostic scanner to your DTS vehicle’s OBD-II port (usually under the dashboard, driver’s side).
- Power the scanner, then select the vehicle make and model. If your scanner firmware does not have “DTS” listed, select the related platform brand – such as MG, Roewe, Rising, or IM – because many use the same SAIC TPMS modules.
- Enter the TPMS service menu, then choose “Relearn” or “Sensor Learning.”
- Follow the on-screen prompts. Usually the scanner asks you to touch each tire’s sensor with an activation antenna, or it may read the sensor IDs automatically through the OBD port.
- Once all four sensors are learned, the scanner will display a confirmation. Disconnect the scanner and check that the TPMS warning light is off after a few seconds of driving.
This method is ideal when installing new sensors because the scanner can also check the sensor ID, battery voltage, and pressure/temperature values before the relearn.
Method 3: Stationary Relearn
Stationary relearn is the traditional fallback. It requires a TPMS trigger tool that can wake and read each sensor when held next to the valve stem.
- Put the car into relearn mode using the same reset button procedure described in Method 1. The horn may beep once or the TPMS light will blink rapidly.
- Go to the left front tire first (unless your scan tool or manual specifies a different order). Hold the trigger tool against the tire sidewall just behind the valve stem, then activate it.
- Wait for the car to acknowledge – usually a horn beep or the TPMS light stops blinking for that position.
- Repeat for the right front, right rear, and left rear tires, in that order. Most platforms use LF → RF → RR → LR.
- After the fourth sensor is learned, turn the ignition OFF. The TPMS light should be solid off on the next start.
If your DTS model requires a specific order other than LF–RF–RR–LR, consult the owner’s manual or a service guide. Incorrect order will cause the car to learn sensor IDs to the wrong corners, and you will have to start over.
Which Sensor Works for DTS
When you need a replacement sensor for a DTS model that shares the SAIC platform with MG, Rising, Roewe, or IM vehicles, a common drop-in part is the BH-Sens 433MHz pre-programmed clamp-in sensor BL-ST-021 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Im, MG, Rising, Roewe | OE# 10290600, 10625492, 10718213. It matches the original 433MHz frequency and covers OE numbers such as 10290600, 10625492, 10718213, and 11205327. Because it is pre-programmed with a vehicle-compatible ID structure, you can install it and then perform an OBD relearn to assign it to the correct wheel position.
Always check your original sensor frequency before buying. Clamp-in sensors on DTS vehicles usually use a metal valve stem, but verify the overall size and torque spec – tighten the valve stem nut to the vehicle manufacturer’s specification, not by feel alone.
Recommended Part
If you need a replacement for a DTS vehicle’s 433MHz direct TPMS sensor, the BH-Sens BL-ST-021 is a solid choice: clamp-in style, pre-programmed, and directly compatible with SAIC-derived platforms such as Im, MG, Rising, and Roewe. Install it, then use an OBD relearn or stationary relearn to register the ID. BL-ST-021 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Im, MG, Rising, Roewe | OE# 10290600, 10625492, 10718213
FAQ
Do I need a special tool to relearn DTS TPMS sensors?
Not always. Auto relearn requires no tool beyond the vehicle’s own reset button. But for OBD relearn you need a TPMS-capable diagnostic scanner, and for stationary relearn you need a separate TPMS trigger tool.
How do I know if my DTS sensor is 433MHz?
Look for the part number or frequency marking on the metal valve stem or the sensor body after removing the tire. Most DTS vehicles use 433MHz, along with related SAIC platforms. The BH-Sens BL-ST-021 sensor is 433MHz and matches a range of vehicle applications.
Can I use a pre-programmed sensor without registering it?
No. Even if the sensor is pre-programmed with the correct frequency and protocol, the car’s TPMS module still has to learn the sensor’s unique ID. You must perform a relearn using one of the three methods above.
Does the order of wheels matter in stationary relearn?
Yes, the order matters. The standard order for many DTS/SAIC-based models is left front, right front, right rear, left rear. If your car shows a different order in the manual, follow that manual exactly. Otherwise the TPMS module will assign the sensor IDs to the wrong positions.