How to Prevent Theft of External Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors?
2 Answers
External sensors have relatively weaker anti-theft properties, but there are now anti-theft nuts available that require specialized wrenches for installation and removal. Specific details are as follows: 1. Disadvantages of external types: External Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) with sensors outside the valve stem are more vulnerable. They cannot accurately assess the internal conditions of the tire and have not undergone factory testing. The externally mounted sensors on the valve stem can be easily damaged by human or physical interference. Sensors attached externally to the valve stem are even more hazardous. Since they can only detect the tire pressure and temperature inside the valve stem, a Tire-Review feature report in the U.S. referred to them as 'adult toys.' Additionally, they are susceptible to damage from human or physical interference at any time. 2. Principle of external types: External tire pressure monitoring sensors are screwed onto the valve stem to monitor tire pressure by blocking the valve pin. Moreover, if the owner's tires have not been dynamically balanced, prolonged use can lead to air leakage. Driving for extended periods with unbalanced tires results in increased tire wear, higher fuel consumption, and greater damage to the vehicle, making their use potentially dangerous.
I currently have two anti-theft measures installed on my external tire pressure monitoring system. In addition to the anti-theft screw rings that came with the original equipment, I also attached GPS tracking chips to the bottom of each sensor, allowing me to check their locations on my phone at any time. When driving to unfamiliar places, I make it a habit to walk around the car to confirm all four sensors are still in place. I specifically chose an anti-theft model with irregular-shaped nuts that require a special wrench to remove. Last time in a mall parking lot, I noticed someone had tried to tamper with them but failed. After washing the car, I always check immediately—once at a car wash, an apprentice almost took one, but I caught it in time. I recommend parking directly under surveillance cameras for maximum safety; thieves are less likely to act if they know they’re being watched. Even when parked in the garage, I lock the main door—it’s a bit of a hassle, but it gives me much more peace of mind.
