How do tyre pressure sensors work?
Tuesday 30th April 2024
Have you noticed that you have low tyre pressure? If a light flashes up on the dashboard, it could signal that you have underinflated tyres or a pressure imbalance. The tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tells you if you have potential issues with your tyres. But how does a TPMS work? Formula One Autocentres covers everything you need to know about a TPMS.
What is a tyre pressure monitoring system?
A tyre pressure monitoring system is an electronic system fitted in your car. It’s designed to monitor the air pressure in your tyres. The TPMS can detect if there is a change in tyre pressure. A warning light on the dashboard can alert you to a potential issue, thus reducing the chances of an accident due to a flat tyre or blowout.
So, how do tyre pressure sensors work?
There are two types of TPMS - direct and indirect. Direct TPMS uses sensors fitted to each wheel whereas indirect TPMS uses other sensors, such as anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensors to calculate tyre pressure.
Direct TPMS
A direct TPMS is the most common and reliable tyre pressure sensor used in vehicles manufactured from 2014 onwards. Typically, these sensors are within the tyre assembly, thus tracking your tyre pressure in real time. The direct TPMS will alert you when there is a change in pressure, which saves you time having to check the pressure manually. Direct TPMS sensors run on batteries so will fail if the battery runs flat. Typically, they will last between 5 to 10 years. If the direct TPMS in your tyres are damaged or the batteries are dead, we can replace them via our wheel alignment service.
Indirect TPMS
An indirect TPMS does not have tyre sensors, instead, it uses the car’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) wheel speed sensors to monitor tyre pressure. Compared to a direct TPMS system, an indirect TPMS is less accurate at checking the tyre pressure but can also tell you when your tyres need inflating or whether you may have a potential slow puncture.
When was TPMS invented?
TPMS was invented in 1977. However, it was not introduced commercially until six years later when the Porsche 911 was produced using this technology. In 2012, it became mandatory for all vehicles to feature TPMS as standard in the UK.
Is TPMS a legal requirement in the UK?
Yes, it’s a legal requirement for new vehicles manufactured in 2012 or after to have TPMS. The system will notify you when you have low tyre pressure or a puncture. However, this system is no replacement for regular tyre inspections and maintenance. Our tyre safety guide covers everything you need to know about keeping your tyres safe.
Where are the tyre pressure sensors located?
Indirect TPMS sensors are located near the brake rotor. Whereas direct TPMS sensors are found in the tyre, between the tyre and wheel trim.
Do I need to reset the tyre pressure sensors?
Yes, you may need to reset the TPMS sensors due to various reasons, which may include:
- You are getting inaccurate readings from the sensors.
- The tyres need replacing.
- The TPMS sensors have a low battery, or the sensors malfunction.
Knowing how tyre pressure sensors work will ensure your tyres run at the optimum pressure. Learn more about why tyre pressure is crucial to your vehicle’s safety and how to calculate your recommended tyre pressure online. Do your tyres need replacing? Buy your tyres online and book your tyre-fitting appointment at your local Formula One Autocentres branch today.