How to Check Tire Pressure Monitoring in Cars?
2 Answers
If the vehicle is equipped with a built-in tire pressure monitoring function, the tire pressure can be viewed on the car dashboard. If the vehicle does not have a built-in tire pressure monitoring function, there will be a tire pressure warning. The tire pressure standards can be found in the user manual, on the vehicle's B-pillar next to the driver's door, or on the fuel tank cap. Different brands and models of vehicles may have different recommended tire pressures. Tire Pressure Monitoring: Tire pressure monitoring involves real-time automatic monitoring of tire pressure while the car is in motion, with alerts for tire leaks or low pressure to ensure driving safety. Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring: Direct tire pressure monitoring systems 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 data for each tire. The system automatically alerts the driver if the tire pressure is too low or if there is a leak. Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring: When the pressure in a tire decreases, the weight of the vehicle causes the rolling radius of that tire to become smaller, making it rotate faster than the other wheels. By comparing the rotational speed differences between tires, the system monitors the tire pressure. Indirect tire pressure monitoring systems rely on calculating the rolling radius of the tires to monitor pressure. Introduction to Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): This system combines the advantages of both direct and indirect systems. It is equipped with direct sensors in two diagonally opposite tires and a 4-wheel indirect system. Compared to a full direct system, this hybrid system reduces costs and overcomes the limitation of indirect systems in detecting simultaneous low pressure in multiple tires. However, it still cannot provide real-time pressure data for all four tires like a direct system.
I've been driving for over a decade, and monitoring tire pressure is crucial. In my Honda, there's a small tire icon with an exclamation mark on the dashboard—when it lights up, it indicates abnormal tire pressure. I'll pull over and check the central information screen to see which tire is low. Sometimes it might be a false alarm, so using a backup tire pressure gauge for a manual check is more accurate. Remember to keep a digital tire pressure gauge in the trunk; just align it with the tire valve and press down to get the reading. The standard pressure is listed on the door frame label, usually around 32-35 PSI. In cold weather, tire pressure drops quickly, while it rises slightly in hot weather. It's recommended to check monthly to prevent blowouts and fuel efficiency issues. If the indicator light flashes or stays on persistently, the sensor might be faulty and needs repair at a service shop. Developing this habit ensures safety, peace of mind, and extends tire lifespan.
