All About Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Under-inflated tires may not seem like a major issue for most drivers, but they have some pretty serious consequences. You’re at risk of flat tires, blowouts, skids, and longer stopping distances when your tires don’t have enough air. How can drivers know when their tires are under-inflated? They rely on their Tire Pressure Monitoring System – or TPMS.
How it Works
Your vehicle’s TPMS consists of sensors on each wheel that does exactly what the name implies – it monitors your tire pressure. If your tire pressure drops 25 percent below your auto manufacturer’s recommended pressure, the sensor sends a signal that prompts a warning light to illuminate on your dashboard. When that warning light comes on, you can inflate your tires to the recommended PSI. You can find the recommended PSI on a sticker inside the driver door, or in your vehicle manual. If that doesn’t work, bring it by your nearest Kennedy shop so we can further investigate the problem.
Your TPMS also catches any malfunctions within the system. Like any other part of your vehicle, your TPMS needs to be checked frequently to ensure everything is working properly. Each time you get your tires serviced – whether it’s to fix a flat, get a new tire installed, a tire rotation, or get a snow tire mounted, your Kennedy Transmission service specialist will also be dealing with your TPMS. That involves removing the sensors, reinstalling them, and reprogramming them each time. This also means some natural wear over time, which could lead to the replacement of sensor batteries or failed parts. Any costs you pay for TPMS maintenance result in increased fuel savings and better tire life.
Quick Tips about Your TPMS
- Your TPMS warning only comes on when your tire is extremely under-inflated. Be sure you check your tire pressure regularly or stop by your nearest Kennedy Transmission and we’ll make sure your tires are in good shape.
- Under-inflated tires can dramatically decrease your fuel efficiency. Not having enough air in your tires creates more resistance, which means your car has to work harder to get from place to place.
- If you get custom wheels added to your car or truck, you’ll likely need to put in new TPMS sensors. Be sure to plan ahead for the potential cost.
Your Safety is Our Priority
At Kennedy Transmission, we understand that not all TPMS systems are created the same. Our team is specially trained on several systems and scanning equipment to ensure your TPMS is functioning properly and will last a long time. We also use new tire-changing techniques to extend the health of your TPMS system.
We make it our job to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and safety equipment to make sure your TPMS does its job. With these new processes, we are working to help you avoid the most common types of vehicle failure, and possibly a serious accident. Feel confident behind the wheel by trusting the experts at Kennedy! Give us a call to schedule an appointment, or find a location near you.
