UNDERSTANDING YOUR CAR’S TPMS
If your car was manufactured in 2007 or later, it should have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). There are two types of systems: indirect and direct. Direct, the more common system today, uses sensors placed inside each wheel to provide precise real-time air pressure readings. An indirect system works with the Anti-lock Brake System to monitor if an underinflated tire causes one wheel to rotate faster than the others when driving straight down the road. Understanding your TPMS, including checking your TPMS system and performing necessary maintenance like TPMS sensor replacement, is an important part of maintaining your vehicle and staying safe on the road.
IF YOUR TIRES ARE NOT PROPERLY INFLATED, YOU COULD BE RISKING:
- Your safety. Underinflated tires may cause increased tire friction and overheating which could be dangerous.
- Your tire performance. Underinflated tires can lose traction and responsiveness in all weather conditions.
- Lower fuel economy. Underinflated tires make your vehicle work harder and use more fuel.
- Increased tire wear. Underinflated tires can wear out your tires faster.
If your TPMS light blinks 3-5 times and then turns solid, your system is malfunctioning and requires some type of service. If your TPMS light illuminates and remains solid, the pressure inside one or more tires is not matching up with the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can find the recommended tire pressure on the tire placard sticker, which is usually located on the driver’s side door jamb, the gas tank door, or in the owners manual.