TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It's an electronic system designed to monitor the air pressure inside your tires and alert you when it falls significantly below the recommended level, typically through a warning light on your dashboard. This is primarily a safety feature, as improperly inflated tires can lead to reduced vehicle handling, increased stopping distances, and a higher risk of tire failure like a blowout.
The system works by using sensors, usually located inside each tire valve stem, that transmit real-time pressure data to your car's computer. There are two main types: direct TPMS, which uses physical pressure sensors in each wheel, and indirect TPMS, which estimates pressure by monitoring wheel speed sensors from the anti-lock brake system (ABS). Direct systems are generally more accurate but can be more expensive to maintain.
Maintaining correct tire pressure is crucial for several reasons. It ensures optimal fuel efficiency, as under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, costing you more at the pump. It also promotes even tire wear, extending the life of your tires and saving you money on replacements. According to industry data from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3%. Furthermore, it's a key safety component; the NHTSA estimates that under-inflated tires play a role in thousands of crashes annually.
Here is some supporting data on the importance of correct tire pressure:
| Data Point | Value |
|---|
| Average recommended tire pressure for passenger cars | 32-35 PSI (pounds per square inch) |
| Fuel efficiency loss with tires 10 PSI under-inflated | Approximately 3% |
| Increased risk of tire failure with 25% under-inflation | Up to 25% higher |
| Year TPMS became mandatory for new vehicles in the US | 2007 |
| Typical TPMS warning light activation threshold | 25% below recommended pressure |
| Percentage of tire blowouts related to under-inflation | Nearly 40% |
| Potential improvement in tire tread life with correct pressure | Up to 15% |
| Estimated annual fuel cost savings from proper inflation | $50-$100 per vehicle |
| Average cost to replace a single TPMS sensor | $50-$150 |
| Reduction in braking distance on wet roads with correct pressure | Up to 5% |
If your TPMS warning light illuminates, it's important to check your tire pressures with a reliable gauge as soon as it's safe to do so and inflate them to the level specified on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. Remember, the TPMS is a warning system, not a substitute for regular manual checks.
