Is ABS Tire Pressure Monitoring Reliable?
2 Answers
ABS tire pressure monitoring is reliable. ABS tire pressure monitoring works by comparing the rotational speed differences between tires using the wheel speed sensors of the ABS system to monitor tire pressure. ABS determines whether a wheel is locking up through the wheel speed sensors, thereby deciding whether to activate the anti-lock braking system. ABS System: The wheel speed sensors detect the motion state of the wheels, generating sinusoidal electronic pulse signals. These signals are then processed by a modulator, converted into digital signals, and transmitted to the electronic control unit. The electronic central control unit (ECU) receives input signals from the wheel speed sensors, calculates parameters such as wheel speed, vehicle speed, and slip rate, and determines the wheel's condition based on the slip rate. It then sends control commands to the hydraulic unit. The hydraulic unit adjusts the pressure in the brake lines according to the control commands, including processes such as pressure holding, pressure increase, and pressure decrease. The ABS warning light alerts the driver to any system malfunctions. Functions: Maximize the effectiveness of the brakes, reducing braking time and distance. Effectively prevent vehicle skidding and fishtailing during emergency braking, ensuring good driving stability. Allow steering during emergency braking, providing excellent steering control. Avoid severe friction between tires and the ground, reducing tire wear.
As an indirect monitoring method, ABS tire pressure monitoring is, in my personal opinion, moderately practical. It detects tire pressure abnormalities by monitoring rotational speed differences through wheel speed sensors, with its biggest advantage being zero cost since it utilizes the existing ABS system without requiring additional sensors. However, it is prone to false alarms during sharp turns on icy or snowy roads—last time on a mountain drive, it alarmed three times despite normal tire pressure. In terms of accuracy, it can only detect pressure differences above 30%, whereas direct tire pressure monitoring systems can identify subtle changes within 5%. A key limitation is the inability to display real-time tire pressure values; you can only check each tire with a pressure gauge after receiving an alert. It's adequate for urban commuting, but for long-distance travel, installing a direct monitoring system is highly recommended.
