ALCAR SENSOR
THE FULL
TPMS RANGE
THE FUTURE OF TPMS IS ALCAR
As an internationally active industrial and trading group, ALCAR focuses on steel and light alloy wheels. As tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are legally required in the EU, they are an essential component. With maximum customer satisfaction, optimal tool compatibility, and one of the lowest error rates, ALCAR is simply unbeatable!
Find out more about what the acronym TPMS means and the comprehensive TPMS support available to ALCAR business partners.
In the ALCAR TPMS WORLD, you will find everything related to tyre pressure monitoring systems.
Whether for passenger cars, trucks, buses, trailers, or motorcycles, including sensors, diagnostic tools, software, and, more recently, a fully integrated CLOUD SERVICE for tyre dealers and workshops.
TOP QUALITY. TOP SOLUTIONS. For ALCAR customers.
ALCAR SENSOR PASSENGER CAR
Tyre pressure monitoring systems have been a legal requirement in every new car for over 10 years. ALCAR has been offering comprehensive solutions for passenger cars since the beginning.
The new ALCAR Plug&Drive sensor generation
More flexibility for your business
|
The new “ALCAR Sensor Universal” in return offers maximum flexibility through highest car coverage close to 99 percent*. The Universal sensor is amongst the currently fastest freely programmable sensors on the market. It has the additional advantage that programming can be conducted using many independent TPMS workshop tools. The Universal sensor is available in four different types of valves: clamp-in silver, clamp-in black, clamp-in grey as well as snap-in black. *Relates to all car models starting in 2018
|
|
ALCAR SENSOR BLE – FOR ALL TESLA MODELS
|
The new ALCAR SENSOR BLE works 100 percent identically to the Tesla OE sensor, requiring no programming. Just like with the OE sensor, the system relearns the sensors within the first minutes of driving. Hence, there is no need for a TPMS device for programming or relearning in order to activate the sensors. All ALCAR SENSOR BLE models for TESLA are available with silver, black, or grey valves.
|
|
The cost-efficient OE replacement sensor
Extensive OE sensor range
Sensor assembly video
Relearn procedures video
ALCAR SENSOR HD (Heavy Duty)
Since mid-2024, TPMS requirements have also become mandatory for trucks, buses, and trailers. ALCAR was one of the first aftermarket providers with a comprehensive solution.
The ALCAR SENSOR HD is a universal sensor that can be freely programmed for any vehicle model or aftermarket system. This universal TPMS sensor for commercial vehicles not only supports all fitments but also adapts flexibly to all wheel sizes between 17.5 and 24.5 inches due to its innovative design. Installation is done directly on the wheel using a heavy-duty textile strap with a Velcro fastener.
)
)
ALCAR SENSOR MB (Motorbike)
ALCAR now offers the first clonable and freely programmable tyre pressure monitoring sensor for motorcycles in the European aft
The universal sensor can be installed either as a valve-based model (available in two valve hole sizes: 8.5 mm and 11.5 mm) or as a so-called bolt-in variant, which is directly screwed onto the inside of the motorcycle rim. The ALCAR Sensor MB is a universal sensor and can be freely programmed for any motorcycle model. The current coverage fully includes models from BMW, KTM, Triumph, MV Agusta, Indian, and Harley-Davidson and is continuously being expanded.
)
)
ALCAR TPMS Tools
Complex challenges require simple solutions. That’s why, ALCAR offers customised industry solutions for tyre and car workshop.
ALCAR TECH600
ALCAR VT57
BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF TPMS
Find out in detail what the four letters TPMS stand for, what to consider when purchasing rims, and which solutions are available.
What is TPMS?
Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) are vehicle-integrated systems which continuously monitor the tyre pressure. There are two different system types; the direct system (measuring the tyre pressure via a sensor in the wheel) and the indirect system (measuring via the vehicle’s ABS sensor). A display inside the vehicle informs the driver if one or more tyres lose pressure.
TPMS fulfil four functions:
- Increased driving safety due to better gripping power, sturdier steering behaviour and shorter braking distance
- Avoiding higher fuel consumption caused by wrong tyre pressure
- Avoiding high tyre wear which is caused by reduced tyre pressure
- Reducing CO2 emissions due to lower fuel consumption and longer life span of tyres
If your vehicle is already equipped with a TPMS then you need to establish whether it is a direct or indirect system. In case that your vehicle is equipped with an indirect TPMS then you can purchase your wheels as per usual as this will not affect your TPMS.
If your TPMS is a direct system then you should look for the following when purchasing wheels:
1. Does the wheel design of your choice fulfil all requirements for fitting a TPMS sensor?
2. Due to the complex technology of the TPMS, we recommend to use a specialist dealer. They have the relevant special tools and programming equipment for changing tyres, maintenance work and for any other problems (e.g. warning on the display)!
All ALCAR wheels have already been prepared to accommodate the necessary wireless sensors (direct TPMS) and the relevant information have been recorded in TÜV certificates since the beginning of 2012.
TECHNICAL DETAILS AND EFFECTS OF TPMS ON MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
What are the differences between a direct and an indirect system?
A direct system measures the tyre pressure via a sensor integrated in the wheel. This information is wirelessly transferred to a control device in the vehicle. Various displays of individual vehicle manufacturers enable the driver to read the current pressure values permanently or to receive just a warning when the tyre pressure is too low. Such systems are very precise since they directly monitor the pressure for each wheel.
How does an indirect TPMS work?
In an indirect system, the vehicle integrated ABS and traction sensors monitor individual wheel rotational speeds. Differences would occur if a pressure drop in the tires appears. In addition, pressure-dependent oscillations of the wheels are measured through advanced signal processing. A change will be considered a further indication of a loss of pressure.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of these systems?
A direct TPMS allows for a very precise data collection and has additional functions like tyre position recognition, pressure loss detection when the vehicle is stationary and monitoring the tyre pressure of the spare wheel. A direct TPMS requires a significant extra effort and expenditure when changing tyres and during maintenance work. All tyres (summer, winter, spare) of a vehicle must be equipped with a properly working sensor.
An indirect TPMS is not as precise in its functionality since it neither measures the tyre pressure nor the tyre temperature. Also, it does not detect loss of pressure on the tyres when the vehicle is stationary. However, the system is far easier to maintain and less costly since wheel sensors are not used.
What effects have TPM systems on maintenance and service?
The use of TPMS when driving and maintaining a vehicle poses new challenges for the driver and workshops alike: The vehicle owner will not be able to simply change a tyre by himself but will need the help of a specially qualified dealer in order to fit, calibrate and check the sensor of wheels with a direct TPMS. Due to the EU-wide introduction of this technology, specialist dealers will train their staff and invest in the required equipment.
Can I fit tyres with direct TPMS myself?
Tyre mounting is a safety-relevant issue and requires expertise (check of a condition of the tire, use the correct tightening torque, ...). Therefore, we recommend this principle to only be carried out by a specialist dealer.
Direct TPMS systems also bring the following new technical requirements:
- The need for maintenance of the valve and the gaskets with every wheel removal to prevent wear of the sensor
- For new tyres: new configuration of the sensors to the vehicle when new sensors (new sensor ID) are used or amending the wheel position of the sensors in order to ensure the clear communication between sensor and TPMS receiver
- The battery level of the sensors must be checked when changing tyres
My vehicle is not equipped with a TPMS. Do I now need to get a TPMS fitted?
Vehicles which are subject to the compulsory fitting of a TPMS will already be equipped with a direct or indirect TPMS by the vehicle manufacturer as otherwise the vehicle will not be given a type approval and/or certification in any of the EU member states.
A subsequent installation of a TPMS is not mandatory.
TPMS – FOUR LETTERS - ONE SOLUTION: ALCAR!
ALCAR offers a customized industry solution: In addition to the sensors, fitting tools, diagnostic and programming devices, service and spare parts kits as well as comprehensive advice are provided for all customers and partners at the same time. ALCAR also offers its customers optimum digital TPMS support in the webshop with the new TPMS configurator. Sensor or service kit assignments etc. are also available for download and quick printing in the members area. This enables ALCAR to solve the most common problems, e.g. which sensor belongs to which vehicle and what is the respective teach-in procedure, quickly and easily online.
Complex challenges - simple solutions
In addition to the new sensors, a new high-performance device has also been
developed with BARTEC, the world's leading manufacturer of TPMS diagnostic
devices. With the ALCAR TECH600, a comprehensive diagnostic and programming 
device including many extras is now available to specialist dealers.
The new ALCAR TECH600 includes a color display, WIFI, Bluetooth OBDII,
wireless charging and a robust ergonomic housing. With improved navigation, numerous menu languages, live updates via WIFI and extensive options for OBD analysis, the new tool makes everyday workshop work easier. It also
features automatic sensor recognition, multi-programming, ERP integration
and an extensive database for teach-in procedures, as well as a three-year
license term. A unique ALCAR upgrade special offers every specialist workshop
full coverage of the most important sensor manufacturers worldwide.
The ALCAR CONNEX system is a cloud-based data management system to which the ALCAR TPMS diagnostic tool are connected via Wi-Fi. For example, with the TECH600, you can capture all TPMS, fitted units, vehicle, and order data and transmit them via Wi-Fi to ALCAR CONNEX.
Thanks to our numerous interfaces, we are integrated with the leading Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and can transfer your data to the desired system. Moreover, we also offer this service for the leading fleet management systems as well as completely customised dashboards and enterprise solutions for your business.
Use ALCAR CONNEX to digitise your entire TPMS and fitted units processes in the workshop. Transform yourself and your colleagues into a paperless, digital, and sustainable workshop.
- The ALCAR CONNEX service is a new offering for our customers to support them in digitising their workflows – such as storing wheel sets or transitioning to a paperless workshop.
- Looking to digitise your order, vehicle, breakdown, or fitted units set data in your ERP system or in a dedicated dashboard for your customers, fleet managers, branch managers, or yourself? NO PROBLEM. WE HAVE THE SOLUTION!
- With the ALCAR CONNEX service, we can transfer, sort, analyse, and provide the following data:
- TPMS SENSOR information and battery details
- Vehicle information, registration plates, and chassis numbers
- Service information, tyre tread depth, tyre damage, rim damage, valve damage
- For specific requirements – just ask us!
The tool transmits data online, and this information is stored in ALCAR CONNEX in real time.
Information – such as a weak TPMS battery or worn tyre tread – can be printed on the invoice for the end customer. For example, from the ERP software, a tyre dealer can download data at the click of a button, as the information is automatically available in the system.
)
)
)