Schrader Launches EZ-Sensor, the Automotive Industry’s First Patented and Programmable OE-replacement TPMS Sensor

Schrader announced at AAPEX in Las Vegas its official launch of EZ-Sensor, what the company claims is the the automotive industry’s first patented OE-replacement TPMS sensor that can be programmed to function across diverse car makes and models. Created via a strategic alliance between Schrader and Bartec, two companies known for their work in TPMS technology, EZ-Sensor will help aftermarket retailers eliminate lost sales, simplify the TPMS repair process and optimize inventory levels. EZ-Sensor uses patented Schrader technology, which delivers a programmable sensor that requires only a single programming tool.

Currently, there are more than 150 SKUs of tire sensors fitted to North American vehicles equipped with TPMS. This can mean money tied up in inventory for sensors that are rarely used or long waits in the service bay waiting for the right sensor to be delivered. The EZ-Sensor SKU covers more than 60 per cent of TPMS-enabled vehicles in the U.S., supporting vehicle platforms such as Ford, Chrysler, GM, Toyota, Nissan, Honda and more. Schrader will eventually introduce one additional SKU during its roll-out process, with a goal of having the two EZ-Sensor SKUs cover an estimated 90 per cent of the market by the end of third-quarter, 2011, if not sooner.

“EZ-Sensor serves as a much-needed solution to the ease-of-use and efficiency issues that have made TPMS servicing a challenge for the aftermarket sector,” said Carl Wacker, vice-president of global sales and marketing at Schrader. “Schrader is committed to helping the aftermarket take full advantage of this tremendous service opportunity by making the service/repair process easier – and ultimately, more profitable.”

Compatible with all required TPMS installation, re-learn and verification functions, installation requires only the EZ-Sensor and a single programming/scan tool. EZ-Sensor can be programmed via several widely used tools the technician may already own, including: Schrader 2123, NAPA 92-1525, Bartec Tech400 and SPX OTC Genesys TPR. For many technicians, this means no extra investment in additional tools. EZ-Sensor also features Schrader’s patented Snap-In TPMS valve and programming technology, which helps minimize installation time.

“We believe EZ-Sensor will help advance the adoption of TPMS because it removes many of the common barriers retailers face in servicing TPMS,” Wacker said.

Now, technicians can more efficiently complete these and other diagnostic applications using a single programming/scan tool:

* Capture make, model, year protocols
* Re-learn sensor IDs
* Program OE-equivalent sensors
* Determine which TPMS sensor(s) have failed before servicing the vehicle
* Enable TPMS re-learn procedures on import vehicles
* Conduct final verification step to ensure complete process accuracy

“With more than 50 million vehicles equipped with TPMS already on America’s roadways, it’s critical the aftermarket service segment is able to successfully integrate TPMS service,” said Sean McKinnon, director of automotive training development for the Tire Industry Association.

To demonstrate the ease and accuracy of EZ-Sensor, the Schrader TPMS team recently completed a 6,200-mile, cross-country “EZ Drive to SEMA” tour in an EZ-Sensor-fitted and wrapped Toyota Prius. The tour began in Detroit, Mich., with “pit-stops” at several aftermarket retailer and trade association locations en-route to the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Along the way, Schrader talked with customers and consumers about EZ-Sensor and the TPMS safety feature.