The position shouldn't matter. When I had the original Contis, I rotated them side to side with no problem.

Is the tire pressure adjusted to the specs listed on the door or jam? The tire will give you max air pressure, not pressure recommended by the car manufacturer, which your TPMS are calibrated at.

I don't know what else could be wrong except a damaged/defective sensor.

Dealer time, then take the receipt back to the tire shop if they find a damaged sensor.

James