Selecting a TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring System to use for your vehicle involves a couple of decisions. Factors like how compatible they are, how easy installing them is and how long their battery lasts matter. Things like these and many others are very important when choosing a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

Understanding the Right TPMS to Use

Understanding the right Tire Pressure Monitoring System to use involves taking these criteria into consideration. They are accessed, and compared, and the best is chosen. The type of Tire Pressure Monitoring System, sensors, and all also matters a lot. These are all factors that contribute to the performance of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What Is a TPMS?

A TPMS is a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. This is a mechanical device built for the sole purpose of monitoring the air pressure in a vehicle’s tire. It can serve other additional purposes but they all aim to keep a vehicle safe. This also includes the driver, passengers and other road users.

Definition and Purpose of TPMS

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System or TPMS is a system created and designed to monitor the air pressure inside the tires of vehicle. This system is also a safety device as it can also alert the driver when the air pressure of the tires gets too low or too high. There is always a recommended air pressure level for all kinds of vehicles. This device notifies the driver when it is below or above the recommended range. This feature promotes safety, helps manages fuel, improves fuel efficiency and also keeps tire wear to a minimum.

Types of TPMS

There are two types of Tire Pressure Monitor Systems, the direct and the indirect. These two types have distinct differences which would be explained here. There are built differently and make use of different technologies to monitor the air pressure of a tire.

Direct TPMS: This type of tire pressure monitor system uses a sensor to monitor the sir pressure directly in the tires. Hence, the name direct TPMS. The sensors are placed in each of the tires of the vehicle. This type of TPMS sends alerts in real time about issues like low pressure or leaks. It also sends the tire air pressure data in real time too, making it very efficient. The alerts are also better because they are to specific tires. The direct TPMS uses a battery for the sensors that need to be replaced from time to time. This is the most preferred type of Tire Pressure Monitor System. That fact is due to its advantages over the indirect Tire Pressure Monitor System.

Indirect TPMS: This is the second type of Tire Pressure Monitor System. This type uses the Anti-lock Braking System or ABS as a method to gain data on the vehicle’s tires. This is less accurate and works with estimates. The estimates are made based on the differences in tire rotations. The size of the tire and wear also affects the readings by this type of TPMS. The indirect TPMS measures the speed of the wheel and uses the data to detect any issues in the tires. Especially ones caused by tires with low pressure. Whenever the tires are changed or rotated, the indirect TPMS has to be calibrated again.

Comparison of Direct vs. Indirect TPMS.

There are certain differences between the direct TPMS and the indirect TPMS. They can be compared on various scales, including accuracy, cost, maintenance and installation.

In terms of accuracy, the Direct TPMS gives very precise data and does so in real time. The Indirect TPMS on the other hand simply provides estimates.

In the aspect of cost, the Direct TPMS costs more than the Indirect TPMS. With the difference in cost, the direct TPMS is more efficient than the Indirect TPMs in harsh conditions.

In installation, the direct TPMs can be more complex to install then the Indirect TPMs which happens to be a lot simpler.

Finally, the Direct TPMS is maintained by changing the sensor batteries which cost money. The Indirect TPMS on the other hand is maintained by a simple recalibration.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a TPMS

When trying to choose a Tire Pressure Monitor System for a vehicle, different factors must be considered. The type of vehicle, the driving conditions, the financial budget and compatibility of the TPMS device with the vehicle.

Vehicle Type:

Under vehicle types, there are options like Passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, and commercial vehicles.

For passenger cars and SUVs, these mostly come fitted with a TPMS directly from their factories. Some are fitted after with products deemed compatible. They come with a proper feature like the real time alerts to the driver.

For vehicles like trucks and other commercial vehicles, these types of vehicles need more heavy duty TPMS. They also need to be able to handle multiple axles and monitor over long ranges.

Motorcycles are another type of vehicle. These need smaller and more compact TPMS devices. They need features like water resistance and durability in harsh weather. 

Finally, for vehicles like RVs and trailers, TPMS devices that can monitor different tires at the same time are more advisable. They also need wireless connections to make them easier to manage.

Driving Conditions:

Urban driving, off-road, long-distance travel and extreme weather conditions are all factors to be considered in terms of driving conditions. When driving in urban areas, the most basic TPMS functionality is needed and important. Off-road trips and extreme weather conditions would require a more strong and durable TPMS device with a better and higher level of monitoring. And for really long-distance journeys, TPMs systems that are connected to smartphones would be an advantage. Also using one with real time alerts would help.

Budget:

The cost of Tire Pressure Monitor Systems varies. So, depending on your budget, you might have to make a choice. The basics are the factory installed TPMS and the aftermarket TPMs. The Factory installed TPMs are the most expensive. They can be easily integrated into a vehicle but are also expensive to repair or change if damaged.

The aftermarket TPMS is a cheaper alternative. They are more affordable than the factory installed TPMS. They also allow features like connecting them to a smartphone.

Compatibility:

Under compatibility as a factor, this is mostly between the model of the vehicle and the model of the TPMS. The vehicle’s make, model and year must match with the make, model and year of the TPMS. This would help prevent issues where the TPMS doesn’t perform well with a vehicle.

TPMS Options for Different Vehicle Types

When selecting or choosing a Tire Pressure Monitor System for a vehicle, the type of vehicle matters. There are different types of TPMS and some suit certain types of vehicles better. We’d be going through some of them.

Passenger Cars and SUVs:

For passenger cars and SUVs, there are mostly factory installed TPMS devices. Some do use aftermarket TPMS but only the popular ones like TireMinder and FOBO Tire. These aftermarket options mostly come with extra features. Some are even more advanced with a connection to smartphones. These TPMS also typically provide real time alerts and data on the tire pressures.

Trucks and Commercial Vehicles:

For vehicles like trucks and commercial vehicles, the kind of TPMS devices used are different. These vehicles require more bulky systems or heavy duty. These kinds of TPMS are equipped with a better range and last longer. An example is the PressurePro or TST. These kinds of Tire Pressure Monitor Systems also come with a feature to support multiple axle vehicles.

Motorcycles:

With this being a lighter vehicle, the needs are different. They are also more exposed so the regular Tire Pressure Monitor Systems won’t be good enough. Motorcycles require small, water and weather resistant TPMS devices. They must also be easy to install and not affect the driver’s visibility. An example of great options is Garmin and Steelmate which fit all the criteria. These kinds of TPMS also come with installation kits which are easy to read, understand and practice.

RVs and Trailers:

Finally, for RVs and trailers, the Tire Pressure Monitor Systems are built to be able to monitor multiple tires at once. Due to the vehicle’s size, these TPMS work better with wireless connections to the dashboard. Examples of some wireless TPMS are the ones built by EEZ RV Products. These TPMS makes monitoring tires air pressure simpler. They also work effectively over long distances. The wireless connections make monitoring the tire’s health and data more convenient.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

When you get a Tire Pressure Monitor System, installing them could prove difficult. Most of them always come with manuals that make the process easier. Even after installation and using them, maintenance can become an issue. Most people don’t know how to keep their TPMS in good and optimal shape.

Steps for Installing TPMS.

The steps for installing a TPMS are pretty easy:

Follow the guidelines in the manufacturer’s handbook. This can differ between products, so staying strictly with the handbook is advisable.

When connecting the system to your vehicle, always make sure to use tools that are compatible with both the TPMS and your vehicle.

Lastly, when pairing sensors to tires, make sure to do them correctly to avoid confusion.

Importance of Regular Sensor Calibration and Battery Replacement

In terms of maintenance, depending on the type of TPMS, there are different things to do.

The TPMs sensors would have to be recalibrated occasionally. This would help maintain or even improve the accuracy

Always replace the batteries from time to time too. This would help with durability and consistency.

And finally, always inspect your sensors in case of damage or tear.

Troubleshooting Common TPMS Issues

There are some common problems that happen when using a TPMS. Most of these can be easily sorted out. Examples are warning lights, sensor malfunction and error in pairing sensors to tires. Routine checks on the sensors would also help prevent issues.

Benefits of Choosing the Right TPMS

Even though TPMS might seem like a lot of work and responsibility, there are various benefits using them.

Enhanced safety and early detection of tire issues.

Using a TPMS can help prevent accidents. Since drivers get real-time alerts on the state of their tires, it’s easier to prevent accidents by fixing the issues in time. Be it low or high air pressure in the tires. They are detected early and fixed.

Improved Fuel Efficiency and Reduced Tire Wear

The use of TPMS improves how fuel is used by making sure the tires roll normally. This saves cost and improves the efficiency of fuel usage. The regular rolling of the tires would also help reduce the rate of wear and tear on them. This makes them more durable and saves money.

Peace of Mind During Long Trips or Challenging Driving Conditions

Lastly, peace of mind and comfort while on the road is important. Knowing the state of your tires in real time would definitely help with this.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Tire Pressure Monitor System to use might prove hard sometimes. But this is a needed task as it helps with safety and is cost efficient. You should stick to the tips, and consider the right parameters and criteria before choosing. And always make sure to get quality TPMS in stores like this. A good TPMS is a great investment for vehicle owners. You can check out more info on TPMS on our blog.