by What is a TPMS?
Automotive Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system designed to monitor the air pressure inside the pneumatic tires on various types of vehicles. TPMS report real-time tire-pressure information to the driver of the vehicle, either via a gauge, indicator light, or other display. This helps ensure the vehicle is being driven safely with properly inflated tires.
How Does a TPMS Work?
Each tire is fitted with a sensor that monitors and transmits air pressure and temperature data. This information is picked up by modules located in each wheel or underneath the vehicle. The modules then process and send the tire data to a central body control module. This main module then relays the info to the instrument panel in the form of a display or warning light.
New TPMS Requirements
Back in 2007, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandated that all new passenger vehicles sold in the country must be equipped with TPMS to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 138. This regulation was established because under-inflated tires can drastically compromise safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. By 2010, all new cars and light trucks were legally required to have a Automotive Tire Pressure Monitoring System factory installed.
How TPMS Improves Safety
Driving on under-inflated tires poses considerable risks. Tires with low pressure have reduced contact with the road surface and are more prone to overheating. This decreases traction and control, extends braking distances, and makes a blowout more likely. A sudden loss of air pressure also makes it harder to steer safely. All of these factors increase the chances of accidents. With a TPMS alerting drivers, they can address low tire pressure before it becomes dangerous.
Potential Automotive Tire Pressure Monitoring System Faults and Issues
While TPMS have undoubtedly boosted vehicle and road safety, they do face some limitations and potential faults:
– Sensor Batteries: The individual tire sensors require batteries that will eventually need replacing, usually every 5-7 years depending on driving habits. Dead batteries result in fault codes.
– Interference Issues: Signals from the sensors can occasionally be blocked or interfered with by objects like curb stops or emission from other vehicles. This may cause false readings or temporary failures to detect low pressure.
– Standardization Problems: There is no single universal standard for TPMS protocols, making aftermarket parts compatibility difficult between different vehicle makes and components.
– Direct Sunlight Effects: Sensors may register higher temperatures on tires sitting in direct sunlight, even if pressure is normal. This can trigger unnecessary warnings until tires cool.
– Sensor Damages: Impacts or damage that harm a sensor will cause it to malfunction and need replacement. This notably occurs more often with low-profile run-flat tires.
Future Advancements for TPMS
To address current limitations, automakers continue fine-tuning TPMS technology with new innovations:
– Wireless Sensor Networks: More vehicles now use self-learning sensor network protocols for better part replacement compatibility. Sensors “learn” their position without manual programming.
– Pressure Profiling: Advanced systems monitor historical pressure change trends to accurately distinguish slow leaks from natural temperature fluctuations.
– Sensor Location Diversity: Strategically mounting multiple sensors around each wheel provides more precise readings by averaging localized temperature/pressure variances.
– Connected Car Integration: Linking TPMS to smartphone apps allows remote monitoring of tire data from anywhere. Certain premium brands offer over-the-air software updates too.
– Custom Alert Settings: More customizable warning thresholds let drivers adjust alert levels to suit individual driving styles and conditions.
While today’s automotive tire pressure monitoring system have enabled important gains in road safety, continued refinement of their accuracy, reliability and user features will further maximize the hazards avoided due to properly maintained tire inflation pressures. As vehicle connectivity rises, their role in monitoring overall vehicle health also increases.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
