I decided to not throw more money at replacing tpm batteries after shelling out $180 for one. I found this one on Amazon, and just wanted to report that after 6 months I'm totally pleased. As you can see, it fits in the ashtray rather nicely. Numbers are backlit, so it's easy to read, and the alarm is loud enough to hear when the door is closed, so it can stay out of sight once you get tired of checking tire temp every 5 minutes lol. So while I was disconnecting the car's tpm, I just ran a connection to the back of the lighter and pushed the power lead into the ashtray - didn't even need to drill.

The tpms just screw onto the tire valves, so you can get to them without dismounting the tires.

Disadvantage is the control button is on top of the unit, so you can't really mount it. If I need to push the button, I pull it out.

I'm sure there are other types but this one is made by Whistler (remember radar people?) and is about $150 on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Whistler-Ts-10.../dp/B008YG663W


Also, something I learned - the Lexus dealer can look at your computer to tell you your front right sensor, for example, is no longer sending, but the computer can't tell whether the front right sensor is on the front right tire.

 

Did you disconnect or disable the oem monitor? Does this whistler unit interfere with the oem unit if the oem were not disconnected or disabled.

How has the unit performed for you so far. Did you use the factory tire pressure default range 29 to 44 psi. Do you have the unit wired in so your not dependant on the internal batt of the unit

 

This is a good alternate. Great find if it works.

 

Wow great option, cool cap sensors. (Chrome would be nice)
Bluetooth would be cool to monitor by mobile device. But at risk to be stolen.

 

Here's another option to consider, I've been using a setup from Orange Electronics for over 2 years. Its very reliable and very accurate. Acquired the system via Amazon for around $120 back then. I've seen it cheaper since. It includes 4 TPMS sensors that must be mounted in place of the valve stem on each wheel. They send a wireless signal to the control unit. That unit can be hardwired or you can plug it into the cigarette lighter. It displays the Tire Pressure, Tire Temperature and Battery Voltage. I use the tire temp in the winter to know whether or not its smart to hit that hairpin curve at a high speed. It fits nicely in the ashtray area as well.

Affordable , Accurate, Reliable

 

To answer some questions... I've had the unit for a few months now, and waited to see how it would do before posting. It's worked well in heat and cold. I had replaced one OEM sensor and when the second one died decided to get this. So yeah, I did unplug the OEM TPM receiver. But there is no reason they couldn't work together if you wanted. I liked this unit because I didn't have to have them installed. The stem caps are about the size of a dime if that will give you better perspective. Hope this helps guys