GET TO KNOW YOUR TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM SAFETY DEVICE
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandates that all vehicles manufactured after 2007 must include a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning system. This TPMS light on your dashboard serves as a safety feature, wirelessly monitoring tire pressure via sensors installed in your tires and their attached valves. If the TPMS light illuminates, it indicates an important message—do not disregard it!
IF YOUR TIRES ARE NOT PROPERLY INFLATED, YOU COULD BE RISKING:
- Your safety is paramount. Insufficiently inflated tires can result in severe tire failures, potentially causing accidents.
- Optimal tire performance is crucial. Underinflated tires may compromise traction and responsiveness across various weather conditions.
- Enhanced fuel efficiency is impacted.1 Underinflated tires force your vehicle to exert more effort, leading to increased fuel consumption.
- Tire longevity is at risk. Underinflated tires accelerate tire wear, potentially shortening their lifespan.
IF YOUR TPMS LIGHT IS BLINKING OR SOLID, HERE’S WHAT IT MEANS:
If your TPMS light blinks 3-5 times before staying solid, it indicates a system malfunction requiring servicing. This suggests that one or more TPMS sensors are not communicating with the system.
If your TPMS light illuminates and stays solid, it indicates a tire pressure issue based on the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure. You can find this recommended tire pressure on the tire placard sticker, typically located on the driver’s side door jamb or the gas tank door.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SERVICE YOUR TPMS SENSORS AND VALVES?
TPMS sensors are powered by batteries and typically last between 7 to 10 years or up to 100,000 miles. Since the battery inside the sensor is not replaceable, it’s advisable to replace all four sensors when one fails due to battery depletion.
A proper TPMS service requires specialized tools and a reset of the sensor system in your vehicle. Therefore, it’s important to have this service performed by a professional mechanic, such as the trusted technicians at Premier Tire & Auto Care. You can have peace of mind knowing that Premier Tire & Auto Care stocks only the highest quality TPMS sensors compatible with nearly all vehicles on the road.
Maintaining the TPMS tire valve is also crucial in preventing air loss that could trigger the solid TPMS light. Each TPMS sensor is equipped with a metal or rubber valve stem, and specific components within the valve need to be replaced whenever you install new tires or undergo tire repairs. For further details, feel free to inquire with one of our team members.
