What Does The Tire Pressure Monitoring System Do?
What Does The Tire Pressure Monitoring System Do?
Posted on November 29, 2023
In the ever-changing Canadian climate, one element of your vehicle demands consistent attention – your tires. As temperatures fluctuate, the air within tires expands and contracts, affecting their pressure. This is where the Tire Pressure Monitoring System TPMS plays a crucial role. This system is not just a convenience; it's a critical safety feature, especially in a country where the weather can change as quickly as the scenery.
Understanding the Role of TPMS
Modern vehicles, particularly those cruising Canadian roads, often come equipped with TPMS – a system designed to monitor the air pressure in your tires continuously. The importance of this system cannot be overstated. It serves as an early warning mechanism, alerting drivers to variations in tire pressure that could lead to decreased vehicle performance, increased tire wear, or even a flat tire.
The TPMS operates through sensors, either of the Direct or Indirect type. Direct TPMS sensors are located in each tire, measuring the pressure precisely and sending this information to the vehicle’s control module. These sensors are powered by small, built-in batteries, typically with a life expectancy of about five years. Similar to your vehicle's key fob battery, these are non-replaceable, meaning the sensor needs replacing when the battery expires.
Indirect TPMS works with your vehicle’s Antilock Braking System ABS. It detects tire pressure indirectly by monitoring the rotational speed of each tire. If a tire’s pressure is low, it will rotate at a different speed compared to the others. This discrepancy is detected by the ABS sensors and communicated to the vehicle’s computer, which then triggers an alert.
Impact on Vehicle Performance and Safety
Proper tire inflation is vital for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that your vehicle maintains optimal contact with the road, providing better handling and preventing accidents. Secondly, it impacts fuel efficiency. An under-inflated tire increases rolling resistance, meaning your vehicle needs more energy – more fuel – to move. This not only hits your wallet but also affects the environment through increased emissions.
The Importance of Regular Manual Checks
Despite the advanced technology of TPMS, manual checks of tire pressure remain essential. Surveys conducted by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada reveal a concerning trend: many drivers neglect regular tire pressure checks, a lapse that can lead to serious safety risks and increased vehicle operating costs. The recommendation is a monthly check, yet a significant number of Canadian drivers fall short of this standard.
Your Safety Matters
While the Tire Pressure Monitoring System in your vehicle is a valuable tool for ensuring tire safety and vehicle performance, it does not replace the need for regular manual checks of tires. Understanding how TPMS works, its limitations and the importance of maintaining correct tire pressure are essential aspects of responsible vehicle ownership. In a land of diverse weather and sprawling landscapes like Canada, a well-maintained vehicle with the right tires in Edmonton is your best companion on the road.