What is TPMS service for tyres?
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system that closely monitors the air pressure in different vehicles automatically to check the health of the tyre. It reports the real-time air pressure of one or more tyres for under-inflation with the help of a yellow indicator on the dashboard of the vehicle.
Sensors are located near to the valve of a tyre that amasses the pressure data and passes the same to the computer for processing. This wireless process is mandatory in the United States since 2006-07 through the Congress’ Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD Act).
How TPMS works?
In a TPMS, the sensors in every tyre would form the backbone of the system. Every sensor has a unique serial number that stands out from others and helps to spot a specific tyre. These sensors continuously keep track of optimal pressure level in each tyre. The tracked data is stored on the central computerized system to perform further analysis and interpretation.
If the tyre pressure below 25% or the OEM recommended level, it is reflected on the dashboard where the yellow indicator light elucidates and signals functions cranky. The sensors may additionally provide easy to understand tyre temperature readings.
What is direct & indirect TPMS?
Direct TPMS has pressure monitoring sensors in wheels. These sensors are liable to measure the pressure in tyres and pass the same information to the vehicle’s central unit. The monitoring system is ready to discover tyres with low air pressure irrespective of condition.
Indirect TPMS with wheel speed sensors of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) is relied upon for the purpose. The revolution rate of each wheel is measured and analyzed by the automated system. It is further compared with the vehicle data and in case, if the wheel is spinning at a brisk pace, the effective electronic system detects under inflation and transfers vital data through the indicator.
Can cold weather cause low tyre pressure light to come on?
In the places where the mercury level plummets especially during night times, the air inside the vehicle’s tyre shrinks and the tyre pressure drop in no time. Basically, drop in 10-degree temperature results in a drop of tyre pressure by 1 to 2 PSI.
When this happens, the Tyre Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) equipped with sensors will keep on monitoring the pressure inside the tyres and triggers the indicator to show yellow or orange warning light.
By seeing the warning, the vehicle owner would learn that he/she needs to fill the air in the tyre. You can observe this kind of vehicle problem during chilly nights.
How do I turn off my TPMS?
Altering the tyre pressure, rotating tyres or changing tyre sizes can trigger a TPMS system. It can easily TURN OFF after turning on the engine. Alternatively, hold the reset button until it starts blinking for around 3 times.
Ideally, during this span, it records pressure in each tyre and adjusts accordingly. As a final point, the engine can be turned off. It TURNS ON due to sensors and you need to replace world class sensors time and again to improve performance.
How long do TPMS batteries last?
TPMS batteries are made of lithium ion have ratings of 3 volts. They work anywhere between 5 to 10 years whereas 5 to 6 years is a more generalized lifespan for an older TPMS sensor. Since batteries are entombed in the sensor hence the complete sensor should be replaced to change a battery.
Furthermore, tyre pressure sensors can be detached, replaced and reused. The best protective measure to be taken during the task is that the system should be kept intact. The sensor valve stem is a fragile piece that should be levered carefully.
Why do tyre pressure sensors fail?
TPMS sensors can fail due to a plethora of reasons,
- The predominant being materialistic dent. These sensors work in an intense weather so that there is always a chance that its temperature and pressure sensor or the transmission coil starts malfunctioning and results in failure.
- Corrosion is yet another key reason for its malfunction. The valve stem of the unit may work in bad conditions that can cause galvanic corrosion. Systems that use stems made of aluminium, particularly at stake.
- One integral reason for the crash is vandalism caused during a setting up or removal. Using a dilapidated torque wrench or screwdriver can break the mounting stem.
How much is a Tyre pressure monitoring system in India?
The initial price of a low-end system can be Rs 2,500 and if you need bells and whistles, the price can go skyrocketing. There are innovative yet reasonable Bluetooth TPMS systems available from SensAiry that can show all the information on the vehicle as well as on one’s mobile device. These devices price tag is above Rs. 7,500 or more.
Frankly speaking, the delights of TPMS have not been much publicized in India due to which there is less awareness regarding the product. There are only limited brands in the marketplace and the price is always quite whopping.