What is TPMS? Learn About Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

What is TPMS, and Why Does It Matter?

Ever noticed a yellow horseshoe-shaped warning light on your dashboard? That’s your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerting you about low tire pressure.

TPMS is a crucial safety feature that continuously monitors tire pressure, ensuring your tires stay properly inflated. Maintaining the correct pressure improves vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Ignoring TPMS warnings can lead to flat tires, premature tire wear, poor handling, and even dangerous blowouts.

Redwood Mobile Tire offers on-site TPMS sensor inspection, sensor replacement, reprogramming, tire repair, and installation, bringing expert service directly to you.

TPMS sensor warning light

How Does TPMS Work?

There are two types of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) used in modern vehicles:

Direct TPMS

  • Uses a TPMS sensor inside each tire to provide real-time pressure readings.
  • Sends an alert to your dashboard if the pressure drops below the recommended level.

Indirect TPMS

  • Uses the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to monitor tire rotation speeds.
  • An underinflated tire rotates faster, triggering the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light.

A properly functioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) helps maintain optimal tire pressure, reducing safety risks and improving overall vehicle performance.

What Happens When Your TPMS Light Turns On?

Your tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) warning light can indicate several issues. Here’s what each signal means and what you should do:

Solid TPMS Light 

One or more tires may be underinflated. Check your tire pressure and adjust it to the recommended level (found inside the driver’s side door jamb). If one tire is significantly lower than others, you may need tire repair or replacement.

Blinking TPMS Light (3-5 flashes, then solid)

This may indicate a TPMS sensor malfunction, a dead sensor battery, or a system error.

No TPMS Reading on Dashboard

Your tire pressure monitoring sensor may be completely non-functional and require sensor replacement. 

Ignoring TPMS warnings can lead to:

  • Uneven tire wear
  • Reduced traction
  • Lower fuel efficiency
  • Tire blowouts and roadside breakdowns

Regular Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor checks ensure safer driving and optimal performance.

The Risks of Driving with Low Tire Pressure

Driving with underinflated tires isn’t just bad for your vehicle—it’s a safety hazard. A properly working tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) helps maintain correct tire pressure, improving safety and performance.

Better Handling & Braking: Under Inflated tires reduce traction, making it harder to stop in time.
Improved Fuel Efficiency: Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance.
Even Tire Wear: Prevents premature wear and extends tire life.
Lower Risk of Blowouts: Underinflation causes heat buildup, leading to sudden tire failure.

Routine Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor checks help detect issues early, keeping your tires in optimal condition.

Redwood Mobile Tire: Your On-Site TPMS & Tire Repair Solution

At Redwood Mobile Tire, we provide convenient Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) services right at your location. Whether you need a tire repair, installation, TPMS sensor reset, sensor replacement, or a full system diagnostic, our expert technicians ensure your tires stay properly inflated—without the hassle of visiting a shop.

Our TPMS Services Include:

  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) diagnostics 
  • Reset/Reprogramming of existing sensors
  • TPMS sensor replacement 
  • Flat Tire Repair
  • Tire Installation

With fast, reliable mobile service, avoid the long wait at a tire shop—we come to you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is TPMS & How does it work?
If you drive a newer car, you likely have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) installed. TPMS is an electronic system that continuously monitors tire pressure. If your tire(s) are underinflated, the system activates the TPMS warning light on your dashboard. This could indicate a flat tire or TPMS sensor malfunction. 

How does TPMS know which tire is which?
Modern TPMS sensors use a process called sensor localization. Many vehicles use direct TPMS, where each TPMS sensor has a unique ID recognized by the car’s computer, ensuring accurate pressure readings.

What is the benefit of TPMS?
A properly functioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) helps maintain correct tire pressure, reducing risks like blowouts and flats. It also improves fuel efficiency by ensuring optimal tire resistance and performance.

How does TPMS work without sensors?
Some vehicles use an indirect TPMS, which relies on the ABS system and wheel speed sensors instead of a dedicated TPMS sensor. When a tire loses pressure, its diameter shrinks, causing an increase in rotation speed, which triggers the TPMS warning light.

Does Redwood Mobile Tire provide TPMS sensor replacement?
Yes! We offer on-site tire repair, installation, TPMS diagnostics, sensor replacement, and reprogramming to keep your vehicle safe and performing at its best.

Schdule Your TPMS Service Today!

Don’t risk driving with low tire pressure! Book your on-site TPMS sensor service with Redwood Mobile Tire today.

Tags :
Tire Pressure Monitoring System,TPMS
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