Internal or External Tire Pressure Monitoring: Which is Better?
2 Answers
Tire pressure monitoring systems, whether internal or external, each have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice can be made based on the specific needs of your vehicle. Advantages and disadvantages of internal tire pressure monitoring devices: Advantages: Installed inside the tire, they use a sensor-equipped valve stem to replace the original one. The exposed part is minimal and does not protrude outside the wheel hub. Once installed, they are essentially maintenance-free (lasting over 5 years without issues). Disadvantages: Installation is complex and requires wheel balancing. Advantages and disadvantages of external tire pressure monitoring devices: Advantages: Easy installation. No need to replace the valve stem or perform wheel balancing, and they don't even require inflating or deflating the tire. All the owner might need to do is screw the sensor onto the valve stem. Disadvantages: Not suitable for SUV models with higher tire pressure. Inflating or deflating requires removing and reinstalling the sensor. External sensors are more susceptible to damage from foreign objects. How tire pressure monitoring works: Pressure sensors installed inside the tire measure the tire's air pressure, and a wireless transmitter sends this pressure information from inside the tire to a central receiver module. Hazards of excessive tire pressure: Reduced tire friction and adhesion, affecting braking performance; Causes steering wheel vibration and deviation, reducing driving comfort; Accelerates wear on the central tread pattern, shortening tire lifespan; Increases vehicle body vibration, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components; Overextends the tire cords, reducing tire elasticity and increasing the load on the vehicle during driving; Decreases puncture resistance. When encountering sharp objects like nails or glass on the road, they can easily penetrate the tire, causing internal cracks or blowouts, leading to tire failure.
I think choosing between internal or external tire pressure monitoring depends on personal needs and driving habits. The internal system is installed inside the tire, requiring wheel removal at a repair shop for installation, which is more troublesome. However, the advantage is that it's less likely to be stolen or damaged, looks inconspicuous, and doesn't affect the wheel's appearance. The external system simply screws onto the valve stem, can be installed by yourself, is cheap and convenient, and requires no extra effort when changing tires. The downside of external systems is their exposure to the elements - they're prone to water ingress during rainy weather and may be stolen. From a safety perspective, internal sensors inside the tire provide more accurate temperature change measurements, offering timely alerts for air leaks to avoid blowout risks. As I do mostly city driving with significant tire pressure fluctuations, the internal system is more reliable despite the higher initial investment. For daily maintenance, internal systems require almost no attention, while external ones need occasional checks for loose screws. For beginners, external systems are easier to start with, but long-term, internal systems are more hassle-free. Overall, external systems are better for those with tight budgets or frequent tire changes; for those prioritizing safety and durability, internal systems offer better value.
