TPMS...Sensory info req.

[BigC]

Hi..
I need to know a little more about Tyre Pressure Monitoring Sensors (TPMS)
in respect to fitting a new set of alloy wheels and tyres to my Berlingo Enterprise Van.

Would I need a new set of sensors also? (at the fitting stage)
Config. Is there one sensor to each wheel ? (They seem very expensive)
Do they have to be coded to the specific vehicle? (again probable more expense) 
Are the existing ones reusable?

All a grey area to me at the moment as I'm a first time van owner and would appreciate some help on this subject
Regards
C

[3rensho]

I seem to recall this subject being discussed some time ago and some of your questions were addressed I believe. You might have a go at a search to get some info before someone comes along with the info to help out.

[BigC]

Only one thread on the subject listed.
Seems to be a couple of different types i.e. pull through rubber valve to which (I presume) a cable attaches 
and the other a box type contraption valve inclusive job...not sure which I have
Smells of a money making scam to me...
These things are around £60 upwards each...probably more at the stealers..
So much for just fitting a new set of wheels these days
Alloys circa £450
Tyres probably in the region of £300
and now these practically un necessary priced contraptions 
Not happy at this moment in time....
Anyone else had dealings with this aspect/subject who can offer more advice
Sure would be appreciated as always
Regards
C

[Solent]

If you have the sensors in the tyres (about 2008 onwards) they can be re-used on your new wheels, but make sure the fitter knows to check and doesn't just yank the old valves out. The sensors are the size of a small matchbox with the valve attached. If they are a good age it might be a good idea to replace them as the batteries don't last forever.

If you have the later system that senses variation in wheel speed then just re-set on the touch screen as you would do after adjusting or checking pressures. I use National Tyres as they are fully aware of them and carry spare valves for the sensors however I would think by now just about all tyre fitters have the knowledge. Find a local one and ask the question I guess.

[BigC]

Cheers Solent many thanks for your prompt reply.
I was thinking of doing exactly that as you say my local Tyre Fitting establishment should be well aware of all the gen....Still a pricey item all said and done and with the batteries not lasting forever this could also be a nice little earner for somebody on cheaper versions...I'm not shy to paying out for things but with the price of decent tyres and this added into the mix with all the implications it brings just seems like the motorists is taking a whooping at every turn...I'm fairly sure that these would be farmed out to Indo China and cost a few pence to make.....like I said earlier just seems like racketeering to me I think that a driver would be pretty well aware of tyre pressures and when to check and change tyres without having to fork out unnecessarily £240+ for 4 sensors which would buy you a BRAND SPANKING NEW SET OF TYRES......in the first place!