TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) is a system fitted to a vehicle that monitors tyre pressure and alerts the driver if it drops below a safe level.
This system helps drivers maintain the correct tyre pressure but should not replace regular, manual tyre checks.
How does TPMS work?
TPMS works by continuously monitoring tyre pressure, or changes in tyre behaviour, and sending information to the vehicle’s onboard computer. If something isn’t right, a warning light appears on the dashboard to let you know it needs checking. The system runs automatically in the background every time the vehicle is in use.
What are the different types of TPMS sensors?
There are two main types of TPMS:
Direct TPMS
Uses sensors inside each wheel to measure tyre pressure directly and send data to a control unit.
Indirect TPMS
Uses ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) sensors to monitor wheel rotation and vibrations to indirectly calculate tyre pressure.
Both systems work with the vehicle’s main Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to alert the driver via a dashboard warning light if there are any pressure issues.
What are the main benefits of TPMS?
The main benefits of TPMS include:
- Improved fuel efficiency – Correctly inflated tyres will use fuel more effectively.
- Improved safety – Correctly inflated tyres will improve stability, handling and braking.
- Improved tyre lifespan – Correctly inflated tyres will last longer.
- Reduced tyre wear – Correctly inflated tyres are less likely to experience uneven wear.
How to use your TPMS
In order to assist you in monitoring the pressure in your tyres, all new cars are now equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) which notifies you of any pressure issues.
To discover how your TPMS works and how you need to look after it, take a look at our animated video.
Why tyre pressure is important?
The air pressure within your tyres is the most important factor in determining how well they perform. Pressure affects the tyre’s speed capability, load carrying capacity, handling response, wear rate and overall safety.
What’s more, under-inflated tyres will cause your car to use more fuel and emit more CO2 emissions. It’s therefore critical for your safety and comfort that your tyres are properly inflated in line with the vehicle manufacturers’ recommendations.
Tyre pressures should be manually checked when they are cold at least once a month or before a long journey. However, in order to assist you in monitoring the pressure in your tyres, all new cars are now equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) which notifies you of any pressure issues.
To discover how your TPMS works and how you need to look after it, take a look at our animation or click on one of the links on the left. Download our free Tyre Pressure leaflet
Servicing your TPMS system
To ensure your TPMS system continues to operate properly and reduce the likelihood of an MOT failure, it may be necessary to have the system serviced occasionally.
TPMS sensors are designed to last for many years and miles, however, after a certain period, the sensor’s internal battery will run out meaning a replacement is needed. In addition, sensors can become faulty or fail completely as a result of weather damage, corrosion or accidental damage caused when changing tyres.
To ensure the sensor remains in good condition, many manufacturers recommend replacement of the valve cap and core components every time a tyre is changed. When replacement TPMS sensors are fitted to your vehicle, your tyre fitter may need to programme the new component to the car using specialist diagnostic equipment.
If your TPMS sensor does develop a fault, under no circumstances should this be removed and replaced with a ‘standard’ non-TPMS type valve. Removing the sensor will not only reduce your safety on the road, it will also result in your car failing its MOT.
When did TPMS become mandatory?
Since November 2014, all new passenger vehicles sold in the EU must be equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
TPMS has been fitted to cars for many years but recently the mandatory fitment and maintenance of such systems has come into force.
The process began with the introduction of legislation on 1 November 2012, whereby all new models of cars sold in the EU had to have a TPMS fitted. This was broadened out in November 2014 to include every new passenger vehicle being required to have a TPMS before being sold.
In the UK on 1 January 2015, legislation came into force stating that for these vehicles, an inoperative or faulty TPMS sensor would result in an MOT failure.
Frequently asked questions
It’s not recommended to drive with a TPMS light on.
If the TPMS warning light on your dashboard illuminates, this should not be ignored as there may be a problem with the pressure in one or more of your tyres.
If you see a TPMS warning while driving, find a safe place to stop your vehicle where you can manually check your tyre pressures against the vehicle manufacturers’ recommended settings. These details can be found in your vehicle handbook, inside the fuel filler flap or on a placard located on the driver’s door sill.
If you are unable to check your pressures yourself, either call for roadside assistance or locate your nearest tyre professional who will be able to help you. You can find the location of your nearest TyreSafe member by visiting our member dealer locator.
TPMS batteries typically last for between 5 and 10 years.
TPMS should not be seen as a replacement for regular manual tyre safety checks. Two types of TPMS systems are fitted on cars today. Direct systems use radio sensors mounted inside of each wheel to measure the tyre inflation pressures. Indirect systems utilise the vehicle’s existing ABS sensors to measure and compare the rotational speeds of the tyres, which are affected by their pressures. Both types work with the vehicle’s main Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to alert the driver via dashboard warning lights to any pressure loss or variance issues.
All passenger vehicles sold in the EU since November 2014 must be equipped with TPMS. Furthermore, with effect from 1st January 2015, all vehicles fitted with TPMS when new will need to have a fully functioning system when undergoing their annual MOT test. Inoperative or faulty TPMS systems will result in an MOT failure.
Yes. Runflat tyres should only be fitted to vehicles with a TPMS. Runflat tyres are designed to provide a limited run-on period following a puncture. These types of tyres can be identified by the “RF” marking found on the tyre sidewall. Runflat tyres are only designed to run for a limited period, at a maximum speed of 50 mph with a limited load carrying capacity.
Do not remove and replace with a ‘standard’ non-TPMS valve. Removing the sensor will not only reduce your safety on the road, it will also result in your car failing its MOT.
If the TPMS warning light on your dashboard comes on, this should not be ignored as there may be a problem with the pressure in one or more of your tyres. At the earliest opportunity, find a safe place to stop your vehicle where you can manually check your tyre pressures against the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended settings. These details can be found in your vehicle handbook, inside the fuel filler flap or on a placard located on the driver’s door sill. If you are unable to check your pressures yourself, either call for roadside assistance or locate your nearest tyre professional who will be able to help you. You can find further guidance on how to perform basic manual checks here
If your TPMS warning light comes on, start by checking and adjusting your tyre pressures to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. In many cases, the light will reset once the correct pressure is restored.
If the warning light stays on, there may be a sensor fault or system issue; this will need to be checked by a tyre professional.
Check you tyre pressures today
Whether your car is fitted with direct or indirect TPMS, it is still recommended to check your tyre pressures manually by using an accurate pressure gauge. This is to eliminate risks posed by technological faults and to ensure your tyres are correctly inflated.
You can find the correct pressures for your vehicle in the manufacturers handbook, or inside the door sill or fuel filler cap.