Alright, so I'm ditching my stock wheels for good and I'd like to move the factory TPMS sensors over to my Rota RB's so I don't have to stare at that idiot light all summer again. I've confirmed that they'll fit in the RB's just fine, however I'm a bit concerned as to whether I can actually get away with doing this. Is it really just as simple as having my tire shop unscrew the sensors from the inside of the stock rim, pop them out, and then stick them in the RB's? Do I need to worry about replacing any rubber grommets or the whole stems or anything?

 

No it's not that easy. You have to buy a rebuild kit in order for this to work. Tire Rack has them and Discount tire has them as well. Typically they run $7 to $10 each. The rebuild kit has the new seals and other goodies that get wonked out when the sensor is pulled out of the old wheel. If you go to a decent tire and wheel shop they will know this. Some tire shops will stock them and some do not. Call in advance or you may be making two trips.
I just called my guys in advance and they had them there the next day.

It's an easy deal.

 

Ahh I figured as much, I couldn't imagine them making a good seal on a different wheel without some new parts. Thanks for the info!

 

I have swapped sensors a few times without rebuild kits. It is recommended to get them but not entirely necessary. As the seal ages it would be a good idea to do it every couple of swaps. For the hassle it is to swap sensors twice a year have you thought about spending $200 on a new set?

 

I do have the service kits for $4.50 each. Let me know if I can help you with them.

 

Good to know Alex, I'll have to get in touch with you soon to order those along with a new set of tires.

I thought about just ponying up for another set of sensors, but I've settled on simply ditching the stock wheels and just running my Rota's year-round with allseasons. I know, blasphemy on a MINI, but I just don't get enough treadlife out of summer tires to justify the cost, and the amount of time in the year that I can actually use them is pretty short around here (although this year has been awfully different so far!).