Does a Broken Tire Pressure Sensor Affect Driving?
3 Answers
If the tire pressure sensor malfunctions but the tire pressure is normal, it does not affect the vehicle's ability to continue driving. There are three common types of tire pressure monitoring methods: Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring: Direct tire pressure monitoring devices use pressure sensors installed in each tire to directly measure the tire pressure. The pressure information is transmitted wirelessly from inside the tire to a central receiver module, which then displays the pressure data for each tire. The system automatically alerts when the tire pressure is too low or there is a leak. Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring: When the pressure in a tire decreases, the vehicle's weight causes the rolling radius of that wheel to become smaller, resulting in a faster rotation speed compared to the other wheels. By comparing the differences in rotation speeds between the tires, the system monitors the tire pressure. Indirect tire pressure alert systems essentially rely on calculating the rolling radius of the tires to monitor pressure. Introduction to Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): It combines the advantages of the two systems mentioned above. Direct sensors are installed in two diagonally opposite tires, and an indirect system is used for all four wheels. Compared to a fully direct system, this hybrid system can reduce costs and overcome the limitation of indirect systems, which cannot detect when multiple tires simultaneously have low pressure. However, it still cannot provide real-time data on the actual pressure in all four tires, as a direct system can.
I've been driving for over a decade, and while a faulty tire pressure sensor won't directly cause your car to stop, the impact is significant. The main issue is that you won't know if your tire is leaking while driving. Low tire pressure not only increases the risk of a blowout but also worsens handling, making it easier to skid during turns. Once during a long trip, my sensor malfunctioned, and I didn't notice a flat front tire, which nearly caused an accident on the highway—luckily, I reacted quickly. For safety, it's best to manually check the tire pressure before each trip using a tire pressure gauge. Many gas stations now offer this service for free. Don't wait for an accident to regret it; regular maintenance can save you a lot of trouble. When this thing breaks, the warning light on the dashboard stays on constantly. While it doesn't affect the car's power, ignoring it is like driving blindfolded.
As a car enthusiast, I believe that a faulty tire pressure sensor may not affect driving in the short term, but it poses significant risks in the long run. The sensor acts as a health monitor for your tires—if it's broken, you can't see the actual tire pressure. Low tire pressure increases friction, leading to faster tire wear and higher replacement costs. Check if the sensor's battery is dead; it usually lasts five to six years. Last time I replaced a sensor at the dealership, it cost around a hundred bucks—not expensive but worth it. I recommend keeping an eye on the dashboard warning light; if it lights up, investigate promptly. Insufficient tire pressure at high speeds can easily cause loss of control, especially in rainy conditions. Make it a habit to visually inspect your tires weekly and check their firmness by pressing them. Don’t skimp on small expenses—safety comes first. Driving is meant to be enjoyable; don’t let a faulty sensor ruin the experience.
