What exactly makes a wheel compatible with our 8's TPMS? The reason I ask is that (thanks to this forum) I now know that MazdaSpeed's very own gunmetal forged wheels are not compatible with our TPMS. Why? And what makes some 3rd party manufacturer's wheels compatible?

Thanks for any thoughts or insights!

Arvin

 

Correct if im wrong i might be way off but I think this is because that mazdaspeed wheels are jdm based wheels that doesn't require the function of the sensors.

 

the tpms unit is a small box that goes inside the wheel and is fixed to the valve stem. it is necessary that the box lay flat up against the wheel when installed, or else it will leak or damage the unit from the force of the tire rotation. so it all depends on the angle the valve stem is mounted at and whether or not there's enough room for the unit itself.

tirerack claims to have aftermarket sender units that are compatible with any TPMS system and fit a variety of wheel, so give them a call and see.

 

...concerning the way the system works. I didn't realize that it was actually mounted in our wheels. I'm glad the stock-8 wheels look pretty decent...all I really want to do is move up a size and use the new set for dry/warm seasons and get some Blizzaks for winter on the stock wheels.

Funny, but I bought my last two sets of tires at Tire Rack. I wish they sold the higher-end wheels such as HRE, Volk, Rays, etc. One of the reasons I like the MazdaSpeed forged is they really compliment and improve the car similar to the way the Volks do on the track-350Z...but don't cost as much! :D

Anyway, thanks for the info, guys...

Arvin