TPMS sensors, or Tire Pressure Monitoring System sensors, are a safety feature that was introduced in 2005. While few vehicles had TPMS in 2005, it is increasingly becoming standard equipment.
So how does it work? TPMS sensors alert the driver when the tire is reaching an unsafe pressure level.
Is tire pressure really that important? Yes. Because tires lose their structural integrity when driven on little or no air pressure, doing so can wreck the tire and result in it needing to be replaced before its time. Furthermore, if that make and size is not still available, the driver may have to purchase four new tires instead of just one.
What if my TPMS requires maintenance? When replacing a TPMS sensor on your vehicle, there are two options: you can buy a new sensor from the dealer, or from an aftermarket company. The aftermarket sensor will provide some cost savings, but these are sometimes known to have communication problems with the vehicle.
What if I don’t have a TPMS? Then it is crucial that you check your tire pressure regularly, at least once per month. Note that the PSI amount shown on the tire is the maximum allowable for that tire, but not necessarily the recommended PSI level for your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle’s specified PSI level, which can be found both on your vehicle’s tire information label, and also in your owner’s manual.
Having your tires properly inflated is critical to the life of your tires, your fuel economy, and more importantly your own safety.
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