Is an External or Internal Tire Pressure Monitoring System Better?
3 Answers
Here are the specific differences between internal and external tire pressure monitoring systems: 1. Installation Method: Installing an internal tire pressure monitoring system takes more time and requires professional assistance to remove the tire, making it generally unsuitable for DIY installation. In contrast, external systems are simpler to install and can be done by the car owner. 2. Accuracy: Due to environmental factors and external forces, external systems are slightly less accurate than internal ones. 3. Anti-Theft Features: Internal systems are more secure as they are installed inside the tire, making theft highly unlikely. External systems have weaker anti-theft properties because the same brand uses identical removal tools, allowing sensors from the same brand to be easily detached.
I've been driving for over a decade, relying on this car for both city commuting and weekend getaways, so I opted for an external tire pressure monitoring system for convenience. Installation was a breeze—like screwing on a bottle cap—done in five minutes without waiting in line at a repair shop, saving both time and money. However, the drawbacks are obvious: I always worry about theft when parked in public spaces, and once after a supermarket trip, I found one missing. The readings can also be inaccurate, jumping around during rain or temperature drops, causing unnecessary stress. Built-in systems are more precise and durable, but require professional installation and removal during tire changes or maintenance, adding cost and time. In summary, external monitors suffice for daily short trips, while built-in ones are safer for highways or long distances—just remember to regularly check the battery and sensor connections.
As a family car user, my first consideration is budget. External tire pressure monitors are affordable, costing just a few dozen yuan per set, and can be installed easily through online purchase, unlike built-in ones which start at three to four hundred yuan plus an installation fee of one to two hundred. Saving this money could buy a tank of gasoline. However, in the long run, external monitors consume batteries quickly, needing replacement every year at a cost of over ten yuan; built-in ones can last more than five years with lower maintenance costs. On the other hand, external monitors can be easily removed for inflation anytime after installation, offering convenience and speed; built-in ones are slightly more troublesome for each inflation. Economically, external monitors save money and are quick to start with; choosing built-in ones, although more expensive, offers better value retention and is less prone to theft, making them more cost-effective in the long run. Developing a habit of checking with a pressure gauge regularly can also ensure accuracy and save money.
