What Are TPMS Sensors, and Why Are They Important?

September 10, 2021 Published by Leave your thoughts

TPMS stands for “tire pressure monitoring system,” and depending on your car’s make, year and model, you may have them installed in your vehicle. These sensors help drivers stay on top of their tire pressure, making them aware of any issues before they can develop into safety hazards.

How it works

There are two types of TPMS sensors: direct and indirect. Direct TPMS uses sensors in each wheel to monitor the tire pressure, while indirect TPMS uses wheel speed sensors to determine any changes in pressure while the tires are in motion.

Naturally, direct TPMS sensors are superior to indirect TPMS. They can measure the tire pressure at any point in time, whereas indirect sensors can only detect if one wheel has lower pressure than the others. Since your tires naturally lose pressure over time, due to both weather and wear, it’s important to stay on top of tire pressure.

If your vehicle didn’t come with its own TPMS sensors, aftermarket systems are available for purchase. Ask your repair tech which ones they recommend, and whether they’ll provide installation services. Additionally, TPMS sensor replacement is possible if your system is malfunctioning or broken.

Why TPMS is so important

Keeping tabs on your tire pressure is a great way to ensure your safety, but there are also a few other reasons you’ll want to monitor it carefully:

  • Safety: Naturally, safety is the most important part of any vehicle ride. When you monitor your tire pressure on a regular basis, you’re less likely to experience a blowout on the road. Since blowouts at high speeds can be dangerous—if not deadly—it’s important to keep an eye on how your tires are faring.
  • Tire durability: No one wants to have to keep buying new tires. Not only are they expensive, but constantly taking your tires in for repair or replacement is a drain on your time. A TPMS sensor will help you extend the lifespan of your tires. Since underinflated tires wear unevenly, they wear out faster. You might get half the normal use from an underinflated tire, not to mention a poor ride, bad fuel economy and an increased risk of blowouts. TPMS sensors ensure you’ll get an accurate read on how each tire is performing.
  • Fuel efficiency: Did you know that drivers in the United States waste about 150 billion gallons of fuel every year? Two billion of those wasted gallons are due to underinflated tires. With gas prices skyrocketing, you’ll want to ensure you get the most out of every last drop. Using or installing a TPMS sensor is a smart way to keep tabs on how your vehicle is performing.
  • A smooth ride: Last but not least, properly inflated tires provide a smoother ride. If you’re not checking your tire pressure regularly, think about whether the roads have seemed extra bumpy lately. It might not be an issue with the streets at all—it could have to do with your tire pressure.

To learn more about TPMS sensors and whether you should install them in your vehicle or invest in TPMS sensor replacement, visit Glen Park Autoworks today.

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