As a driver you would want to extract the best performance from your vehicle. For this it’s important to keep your vehicle and its components in good condition. Tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are becoming increasingly popular in modern vehicles. They are designed to alert drivers when their tyre pressure is low, which can improve safety, fuel efficiency and prolong the life of the tyres. Get all your doubts cleared by going through some of the frequently asked questions about TPMS.
Q: What is TPMS?
A: TPMS is a system that monitors the air pressure in the tyres of a vehicle. It alerts the driver when the pressure falls below a certain level, typically through a warning light on the dashboard.
Q: Why is TPMS important?
A: Driving on under-inflated tyres can be unsafe. It can impact the handling and braking of the vehicle, as well as increase the risk of a blowout. Additionally, under-inflated tyres can reduce fuel efficiency and cause premature wear and tear on the tyres.
Q: How does TPMS work?
A: There are two types of TPMS: direct and indirect. Direct TPMS uses sensors mounted on the wheels to measure the air pressure in each tyre. Indirect TPMS uses the ABS system to calculate the pressure based on wheel speed and other data. When the pressure drops below a certain level, the system sends a signal to the car's computer, which triggers the warning light on the dashboard.
Q: Can TPMS be turned off?
A: It depends on the make and model of the vehicle. Some TPMS systems can be turned off, while others cannot. However, it's important to note that disabling the system can be dangerous and may result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased tyre wear.
Q: What should I do if the TPMS warning light comes on?
A: If the tyre pressure monitoring system’s warning light comes on, you should check the air pressure in all four tyres. If any of the tyres are under-inflated, you should add air to bring them up to the recommended pressure. The recommended pressure can be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb.
Q: Can TPMS sensors be replaced?
A: Yes, TPMS sensors can be replaced. However, it's important to use the correct sensors for your vehicle. Your mechanic or tyre shop can help you find the right sensors.
Q: How often should you replace the TPMS sensors and their batteries?
A: So, in general, you should replace the TPMS sensors' batteries every five to ten years or when the battery fails. If you notice that your TPMS system is not working correctly or the warning light comes on, it's essential to have your sensors checked and replaced if necessary. It's also important to keep in mind that some TPMS sensors have non-replaceable batteries, which means you will need to replace the entire sensor unit when the battery dies.
From all this, it can be seen that tyre pressure monitoring system is an important safety feature that can help drivers avoid accidents and increase fuel efficiency. By monitoring tyre pressure and alerting drivers when it's low, TPMS can prolong the life of the tyres and save drivers money in the long run. If you have any questions or concerns about TPMS, be sure to talk to your mechanic or tyre shop.
