Function Purpose: A Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) is designed to continuously monitor the air pressure inside a vehicle's tires. Its primary function is to alert the driver when the tire pressure is either too low or too high. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for several reasons. Under - inflated tires can increase rolling resistance, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and increased tire wear. They also pose a safety risk as they are more prone to overheating and blowouts. On the other hand, over - inflated tires can cause a harsh ride and uneven tire wear. The TPMS helps to prevent these issues by keeping the driver informed about the tire pressure status.
Working Principle: There are two main types of TPMS: direct and indirect. In a direct TPMS, each tire has a sensor mounted inside the wheel, usually on the valve stem. These sensors measure the tire pressure directly and transmit the data wirelessly to a receiver in the vehicle. The receiver then sends the information to the vehicle's onboard computer, which displays the tire pressure readings on the dashboard. If the pressure falls outside the recommended range, the system triggers an alert, usually in the form of a warning light on the dashboard. Indirect TPMS, on the other hand, does not use physical pressure sensors in the tires. Instead, it uses the vehicle's Anti - lock Braking System (ABS) sensors to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel. Since an under - inflated tire has a smaller diameter and will rotate faster than a properly inflated tire, the system can detect the difference in rotational speeds and infer that there is a tire pressure issue.
Benefits:
Enhanced Safety: By alerting the driver to low or high tire pressure, the TPMS helps prevent tire - related accidents. Maintaining proper tire pressure ensures better handling, braking, and stability of the vehicle, especially in emergency situations.
Improved Fuel Efficiency: Properly inflated tires have less rolling resistance, which means the engine doesn't have to work as hard to move the vehicle. This results in improved fuel efficiency, saving the driver money on fuel costs over time.
Extended Tire Life: Monitoring and maintaining the correct tire pressure helps prevent uneven tire wear. Tires that are properly inflated last longer, reducing the frequency of tire replacements and the associated costs.
