Is Built-in or External Tire Pressure Monitoring Better?
2 Answers
Both built-in and external types fall under the category of direct tire pressure monitoring systems. Both can meet usage requirements in terms of functionality and quality, making it difficult to determine which is better. The differences between built-in and external tire pressure monitoring are as follows: 1. Price: Built-in tire pressure monitors are more expensive than external ones. 2. Operability: Built-in types require a visit to a repair shop for installation and wheel balancing, incurring additional labor costs for removal and replacement. External types, on the other hand, can be replaced by oneself, making the process simple and quick. 3. Accuracy and Stability: External types have a slightly higher error margin of 0.1-0.2 bar and may experience some delay in response speed. However, in practical tests, the monitoring accuracy and stability of both types tend to be similar. Many new external tire pressure monitors now compensate for previous technical shortcomings with improved performance and stability.
As a driver with twenty years of experience, I think tire pressure monitoring is worth discussing. The built-in system is installed inside the tire, making it harder to steal or damage, and the readings are more accurate, especially during long-distance driving, as it provides real-time alerts for pressure changes. The external type is easier to install—just screw it on yourself—and much cheaper, but it might give false alarms or fall off on bumpy roads. I used an external one before, and it often acted up in the rain. The built-in type might cost more initially and requires removal during tire changes, but it’s much more hassle-free in the long run. For daily highway driving, the built-in system offers higher safety and helps avoid blowout risks—I think it’s a worthwhile investment. In short, if you often drive long distances or prioritize accuracy, go for the built-in system; for short city trips where convenience matters, the external type will suffice.
