Tire Pressure Monitoring System(TPMS): Everything You Need to Know

What Does TPMS Mean?  

TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. This system uses electronic sensors installed in the tires to automatically monitor various tire conditions in real-time, including pressure, temperature, and battery status. By recording tire speed and other data, TPMS provides essential safety and effectiveness for vehicle operation.

The TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Scan Tool is a diagnostic device for reading and diagnosing faults in a vehicle's tire pressure monitoring system. It can be used to check tire pressure sensors, monitor tire pressure, and reset the TPMS warning light on the instrument cluster.

Types of TPMS  

Tire pressure monitoring systems can be classified into two categories: direct TPMS and indirect TPMS.

Direct TPMS: This system utilizes pressure sensors installed inside each tire to measure air pressure and temperature. The sensors then transmit the data to the vehicle's onboard computer via a wireless transmitter. When tire pressure is too high, too low, or the temperature is excessive, the system alerts the driver. Additionally, the warning thresholds for tire pressure and temperature can be customized by the vehicle owner based on the vehicle model, driving habits, and geographical location. Direct TPMS offers accurate, real-time tire pressure data, making it a more reliable option.

Indirect TPMS: This system calculates tire pressure indirectly using wheel speed sensors and data from the vehicle's antilock braking system (ABS). Indirect TPMS does not require individual pressure sensors in each tire, making it a more cost-effective solution. However, it may not provide as precise data as direct TPMS and could struggle to detect gradual tire pressure loss.

How Do Indirect and Direct TPMS Work?

Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The indirect TPMS detects changes in tire pressure by monitoring wheel speed. When a tire’s pressure decreases, its diameter reduces, causing it to rotate faster than the other tires. Wheel speed sensors pick up this increase in rotation speed and send signals to the vehicle's Electronic Control Module (ECM). The ECM analyzes these signals to identify the tire with low pressure; if one tire is spinning significantly faster than the others, it concludes that this tire is underinflated and sends a warning signal to alert the driver.

Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

In contrast, the direct TPMS measures tire pressure through sensors installed within each tire. These sensors transmit real-time data to the central control module, which compares the actual tire pressure readings with preset values. If it detects that tire pressure is either too high or too low, the system alerts the driver through a warning light on the dashboard or a notification on the vehicle’s display. This direct TPMS offers continuous monitoring, enabling drivers to take timely action to prevent tire damage.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Advantages and Disadvantages

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is a technology designed to monitor tire pressure, offering several benefits and drawbacks.

Advantages

1. Extended Tire Life: Proper tire inflation is crucial for preventing uneven tire wear. A TPMS helps ensure tires are correctly inflated, thereby extending their lifespan and reducing the risk of premature failure, which can lead to costly repairs.

2. Improved Fuel Efficiency: When tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, fuel efficiency increases. Underinflated tires create higher rolling resistance, resulting in decreased fuel economy.

3. Reduced Environmental Impact: Correctly inflated tires contribute to lower fuel consumption, which in turn helps minimize greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles.

4. Enhanced Safety: By continuously monitoring tire pressure, a TPMS alerts drivers to potential issues, allowing for timely corrective actions. This proactive approach can prevent tire blowouts and improve overall road safety.

Disadvantages

1. Costly Installation: Installing a TPMS can be expensive. Furthermore, the system requires regular maintenance to ensure proper functionality, which may involve replacing batteries, sensors, or other components.

2. False Alerts: TPMS can issue false alarms if sensors are damaged or malfunctioning, leading to driver frustration and the potential to overlook genuine warnings.

3. Limited Monitoring Range: TPMS sensors have a restricted range, which may prevent accurate monitoring of tire pressure on vehicles that are towing trailers or traveling long distances.