If you have a spare tire and the tires are not run flat you can run without the sensors. The light will be on, but it is not a safety issue. TPM sensors are very fragile and easy to break. Many tire installers will send you back to the dealer, but there are also many that are equipped to handle this new technology. Make sure they have proper testing equipment to ensure the sensors are working before and after the work is complete. Ensure that whoever works on the sensor always replaces the rubber O-Ring. If not replaced will lead to leaks and tire failure.
You will be charged more, not only due to the extra equipment required to work on the sensor equipped wheels, but also because it does take more time. Time is money. Whenever work is done on the tires the system must be reset and this can be tricky.
The sensors are not legislated in Canada as in the US, but we are seeing more and more vehicles equipped with sensors. So, be prepared to deal with it if you are looking at buying a new vehicle. Sensor pricing varies dramatically. OE sensors typically cost between the $100 to $200 and aftermarket $75 to $125.
If a vehicle has a sensor system and runflat tires you need to have the sensor system functioning. This is purely for safety reasons. It is also illegal to remove sensors from original euipment wheels. It is ok to run without sensors on aftermarket, but with OE it is a no, no!
