Since 2008, Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) have become a standard feature in vehicles sold in the United States, mandated by the TREAD Act in 2007. For Audi A4 owners, understanding whether you have a direct or indirect TPMS is crucial for maintenance and tire care. The Audi A4, across its various generations (B6, B7, B8 from 2002-2019), utilizes both direct and indirect TPMS technologies depending on the model year.
Direct TPMS employs physical tire pressure sensors inside each wheel. These sensors actively monitor tire pressure and transmit data to the vehicle’s ECU. If a drop in tire pressure is detected, the system alerts the driver via a warning light or, in high-line systems, displays individual tire pressures on the dashboard. Indirect TPMS, conversely, relies on the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to infer tire pressure by monitoring wheel speed. It doesn’t use physical sensors in the wheels.
Understanding the tire pressure monitoring system types for Audi A4 models.
Direct vs. Indirect TPMS in Audi A4: Model Year Breakdown
To determine whether your Audi A4 is equipped with a direct or indirect TPMS, refer to the table below. It outlines the system type based on the manufacturing year and model generation.
| Manufactured Year | Audi A4-S4 (8E B6) | Audi A4-S4 (8E B7) | Audi A4-S4 (8K B8) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | n/a | n/a |
| 2003 | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | n/a | n/a |
| 2004 | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | n/a |
| 2005 | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | n/a |
| 2006 | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | n/a |
| 2007 | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | n/a |
| 2008 | n/a | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | Direct TPMS, manual relearn |
| 2009 | n/a | Direct TPMS, manual relearn | Direct TPMS, manual relearn |
| 2010 | n/a | n/a | Direct TPMS, manual relearn |
| 2011 | n/a | n/a | Direct TPMS, manual relearn & Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn (scan the VIN to determine which system) |
| 2012 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2013 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2014 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2015 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2016 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2017 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2018 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
| 2019 | n/a | n/a | Indirect TPMS, indirect relearn |
TPMS Sensor Replacement Options for Audi A4
When it comes to replacing your Audi A4 tire pressure sensors, you have several options. These include Original Equipment (OE) sensors and aftermarket alternatives. Aftermarket options range from universal sensors, programmable sensors, configurable sensors, hybrid sensors, one-to-one or OE-style sensors. Tools like the VT56, VT46, and VT36 TPMS tools are invaluable for diagnosing and servicing these systems, offering compatibility with OE and various aftermarket sensor types and service kits. These tools can help identify compatible sensors and guide through the relearn procedures.
TPMS Frequency for Audi A4 Models
Audi A4 TPMS sensors operate on a frequency of 433MHz. This is important information when selecting replacement sensors or TPMS tools, ensuring compatibility with your vehicle’s system.
Required TPMS Tools for Audi A4 Relearn Procedures
Different TPMS tools are required for different relearn procedures. For manual and indirect relearn procedures on Audi A4 models, the VT46 brands and VT56 tools provide step-by-step instructions directly on the tool, simplifying the reset process. For direct TPMS systems, an activation tool like VT6, VT15, VT31, VT46 brands, and VT56 is needed to activate the sensors before initiating the relearn process.
Audi A4 TPMS Relearn Procedures: Step-by-Step Guides
The relearn procedure for your Audi A4 TPMS depends on whether you have a direct or indirect system. Here’s a breakdown of the manual and indirect relearn procedures for various Audi A4 models and years.
Manual Relearn Procedure (Direct TPMS Systems)
Audi A4-S4, 8E B6 2002-2005 & Audi A4-S4, 8E D7, 2004-2005:
- Activate TPMS sensors using a TPMS tool.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position.
- Navigate to “MENU info” and select “SET”.
- Choose “TIRE PRESSURE”.
- Select “STORE PRESSURE”.
- Drive the vehicle for up to 20 minutes to complete the relearn process.
Manual Relearn Procedure – Using Steering Lever (Audi A4-S4, 8E B6, 2006-2007, Audi A4-S4, 8E D7, 2006-2009, Audi A4-S4, 8K D8, 2008):
- Activate sensors with a TPMS tool.
- Turn ignition ON.
- Press the reset button located on the steering column lever.
- Use the rocker switch in the instrument cluster to select the “Set” function and press the “Reset” button.
- Use the rocker switch again to select “Tire Pressure” and press the “Reset” button.
- Select “Store Tire Pressure” and press “Reset”.
Manual Relearn Procedure – Using Center Console Control (Audi A4-S4, 8E B6 2006-2007, Audi A4-S4, 8E D7, 2006-2009, Audi A4-S4, 8K D8, 2008):
- Activate sensors using a TPMS tool.
- Turn the ignition ON.
- Press the “menu” button.
- Use the rotary push button to select “CAR” and press.
- Select “Set” and press.
- Choose “Tire Pressure”.
- Select “Store Pressure” or “Wheel Change”.
- Press the button to confirm the selection.
Manual Relearn Procedure (Audi A4-S4, 8E D7, 2009 & Audi A4-S4, 8K D8, 2009-2011):
- Activate sensors with a TPMS tool.
- Turn the ignition ON.
- Press “CAR” to select “TIRE PRESSURE”.
- Select “STORE CURRENT”.
- Drive the vehicle for up to 20 minutes.
Indirect Relearn Procedure (Indirect TPMS Systems)
Audi A4-S4, 8K D8, 2011-2019:
- Ensure tire pressures are adjusted to the recommended placard value.
- Apply the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position.
- Select “CAR”, then push the “menu” button to proceed to the next screen.
- Select “Servicing and checks”.
- Select “Tire Pressure Monitoring”.
- TPMS calibration will complete automatically.
Troubleshooting TPMS Issues on Your Audi A4
Identifying Direct vs. Indirect TPMS on Audi A4 8K D8 Models
The Audi A4 8K D8 model line presents a unique scenario, transitioning from direct to indirect TPMS mid-year in 2011 and continuing with indirect systems up to 2019. Determining your system type is crucial for correct servicing. Here are troubleshooting tips:
- VIN Scan with VT56: If you have access to a VT56 TPMS tool, use the VIN barcode scanner. After scanning, the tool will display “INDIRECT” if your vehicle is equipped with an indirect system.
- Owner’s Manual: Consult your Audi A4 owner’s manual. It contains specific information about your vehicle’s TPMS, especially if the VIN barcode is damaged or if you are using a different TPMS tool without VIN scan capability.
Correct Audi A4 Model Identification for TPMS Reset
The Audi A4 series includes several models across different manufacturing periods:
- Audi/A4-S4, 8E B6 (2002-2007)
- Audi/A4-S4, 8E D7 (2004-2009)
- Audi/A4-S4, 8K D8 (2008-2019)
Using a VT56 TPMS tool simplifies model identification. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to “CHECK TPM” or “SERVICE” on the tool.
- Select “VIN scan” and press “OK”.
- Use the green trigger button to scan the VIN barcode, typically located on the driver’s side door jamb.
Locating the VIN barcode on your Audi A4 for accurate TPMS system identification.
By understanding the type of TPMS system in your Audi A4 and following the correct relearn procedures, you can ensure optimal tire pressure monitoring and safety. Whether you’re performing routine maintenance or troubleshooting a TPMS warning light, this guide equips you with the necessary information to manage your Audi A4’s tire pressure monitoring system effectively.
