There are two different types of sensors. I believe they changed the sensors in 2001. The later sensors are cheaper than the earlier sensors. When I bought my '04 Z06 CE, the one thing that I did not like was it did not have the sensors. I did not realize how much I had become used to them on my '01 vert. So, I ordered them from
www.gmpartshouse.com and they cost me about $35 a piece including the nut. I do not believe that they have replaceable batteries.
After having them installed on the stock wheels, I had to have the sensors turned on in the computer. Since they can turn this feature on, I am assuming that they can turn this feature off as well until you get new sensors.
Good luck.
Rich