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The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) monitors precisely what the name implies: the air pressure in the tires on your vehicle. The system monitors tire pressure by using small sensors integrated into the tire valve stem (the connector used to add air to the tire).
These sensors send information to the appropriate electronic module that monitors your vehicle and delivers warnings if a system problem is encountered. In 2007, the TPMS was mandated to be standard equipment in all vehicles.
In this article, I will explain what the TPMS does, why it is important, and the warning signs of issues with your vehicle’s tires.
The primary purpose of the TPMS is to track the air pressure inside each tire. Some systems also include a spare tire with a sensor, but you need to check your owner’s manual to be sure. When the air pressure in any of your tires drops below a given threshold, it indicates that your tire is underinflated. Driving with an underinflated tire could cause the following:
Maintaining proper tire inflation will help to ensure that your tires do not wear out prematurely and that you are protected from a potential accident due to tire failure. Many vehicle manufacturers include an integrated tire monitoring display that enables you to check each tire's pressure periodically. In this way, you can add air to your tires at your convenience rather than being surprised when the warning light comes on and then scrambling to add air to the tires that need it.
The TPMS will also monitor overinflated tires. Although not as common as underinflated tires, this condition can still happen. Both overinflation and underinflation are bad for the tires, so it is important to maintain the proper tire inflation for your safety and the safety of your passengers. A properly inflated tire will provide the following benefits:
To determine the proper inflation level for your vehicle's tires, refer to the sticker posted on the driver's door jamb or the owner's manual. Maintaining the proper tire pressure is a safety precaution that will save you money and reduce stress in the long run.
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Even if you diligently monitor tire pressure, outside forces can still negatively affect your tires. If the TPMS identifies an issue with your tires, it will generate a code for the appropriate module to turn on the warning light. If the light comes on, the first thing to do is check the pressure in each tire using the display or manually with a tire pressure gauge. Again, to identify the correct air pressure, refer to the sticker on the driver's side door jamb or the owner's manual. Do not use the tire pressure printed on the tire sidewall, as this indicates maximum air pressure, which is not the proper air pressure for your vehicle. Here are a few warning light scenarios that could happen and what you can do to resolve the issue:
Some Innova OBD2 scanners have the functionality to identify the tire sensor that has the issue. Once the issue has been corrected, the OBD2 scanner can reset the TPMS light by erasing the trouble code stored on the onboard computer.
The TPMS is an important system, but it should not replace regular tire pressure checks, which will proactively identify issues that could jeopardize your safety. Depending on the situation, the TPMS may be limited in its ability to provide accurate information about what is happening with your tires. These situations include but are not limited to:
So, even with TPMS, you should be proactive and check the pressure in your tires regularly (monthly if possible), especially if you plan to take a trip where you may add extra weight to your vehicle. Doing this will ensure that you keep on rolling smoothly and safely.
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