Many vehicles sold in Australia possess a factory-installed tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) or warning system as a result of legislation already in place in the US and Europe. This legislation mandates that new cars in certain regions cannot be sold without one of these systems fitted, so the technology has also found its way into some Australian garages.
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The TPMS models that we tested all come with four sensors (one for each wheel) and a receiver unit. They all have a built-in display to show real-time tyre pressures, except for the Fobo Tyre which uses an app to display the information on your Android or iOS device. The systems are all suitable for cars, four-wheel drives, caravans and trailers, but some have limited pressure ranges.
While most models we tested are limited to four sensors, several have capacity for an extra sensor for your spare tyre, and some are capable of monitoring additional tyres (up to 22), which is something you should consider if you're planning on towing a trailer or caravan.
The overall score is made up of accuracy (70%), display (15%) and ease of removing the sensor to adjust tyre pressures (15%).
Accuracy: The tyre sensors were fitted and paired to the display device as per the manufacturer's instructions. Tyre pressures were adjusted to 35psi using a calibrated reference pressure gauge, and then readings were taken from the device's in-car display. The results were averaged and then scored according to the difference from the reference reading.
Range: A tyre was removed and placed 20 metres behind the vehicle to ensure readings were registered. This was done to simulate use on a caravan or trailer. While the majority of models we tested registered readings at 20 metres, there were some that did not, so you should be aware of this if you are planning on towing.
Display: The display was assessed for quality and clarity of readings. A large, clear display that shows the status of all tyres at the same time is ideal.
Ease of use: The sensors were removed from the tyres to evaluate how easy it is to adjust tyre pressure if required.
Detects a fast leak and sends an alert to the display unit. This allows the driver time to slow down or stop safely before the tyre becomes severely deflated.
The range of pressures at which the sensors are claimed to be accurate. Be sure to choose the product that's suitable for your application. Four-wheel drives may use pressures below 20psi, regular road cars are usually somewhere between 25 and 40 psi, and some caravans and trailers require over 50psi.
The type of replacement battery required for each sensor.
All the products we tested come with four sensors but some allow for extra sensors to be added to the system for use with caravans and trailers etc.
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The recommended operating temperature range of the sensors.
Factory-fitted systems fall into two categories: indirect and direct. Both will trigger a warning light on the dash when low tyre pressure is recognised, but the method of detection is quite different.
The indirect system uses the car's Antilock Braking System (ABS) sensors to measure wheel rotation. If one wheel is spinning faster, the system deduces that deflation has occurred and triggers the warning.
The direct system uses wireless sensors in each wheel that directly measure tyre pressure and transmit this data to a display unit. When pressure drops below a pre-determined point, the warning is raised. Although generally more expensive than the indirect system, the direct system is less prone to inaccuracies due to tyre rotations and replacements, and can provide actual pressure readings. It is this technology that is utilised in all models in our tyre pressure monitoring systems test.
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Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for several reasons. Underinflated or overinflated tires can adversely affect vehicle handling, fuel efficiency, and lifespan. Moreover, improper tire pressure can compromise safety on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. A tire pressure sensor is vital in continuously monitoring tire pressure and alerting the driver of any deviations, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Understanding tire pressure sensor systems is essential for vehicle owners to ensure proper tire maintenance and safety. These systems use sensors installed in each tire to monitor tire pressure and provide real-time feedback to the driver. These systems help prevent tire damage, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance overall vehicle performance by alerting drivers of low or high tire pressure. This introduction provides an overview of tire pressure sensor systems, their importance, and how they contribute to safer and more efficient driving experiences.
Direct TPMS utilizes individual sensors attached to each tire’s valve stem or integrated with the tire’s inner lining. These sensors directly measure the tire pressure and provide real-time data to the vehicle’s onboard computer system. In case of abnormal pressure changes, the system alerts the driver through a dashboard display or warning light.
Indirect TPMS, on the other hand, relies on the vehicle’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) to indirectly monitor tire pressure. This system uses wheel speed sensors to analyze tire rotations and detect deviations caused by changes in tire pressure. Although indirect TPMS is less accurate than direct TPMS, it is often more affordable and easier to install.
Choosing the right tire pressure sensor is crucial for maintaining optimal tire performance and safety. When considering options, several factors should be taken into account. First, compatibility with your vehicle’s make and model is essential to ensure a proper fit. Accuracy and reliability of pressure readings, ease of installation, durability, and battery life are also crucial considerations. Additionally, consider whether the sensor is programmable or requires specific tools for setup. By evaluating these factors, you can select a tire pressure sensor that meets your specific needs and helps you maintain optimal tire pressure for a safer and smoother driving experience.
External-mounted sensors are attached to the valve stem outside the tire. They are relatively easier to install, but their location exposes them to potential damage from road debris or theft. These sensors may need to be more accurate compared to internal-mounted ones.
When choosing a tire pressure sensor, consider reputable brands and models known for their quality and reliability. Some top brands include Brand A (Model X), Brand B (Model Y), and Brand C (Model Z). Research customer reviews, ratings, and features offered by different brands to find the best fit for your needs.
The installation and calibration process may vary depending on the type and model of the tire pressure sensor. Internal-mounted sensors often require professional installation due to the need for tire removal. External-mounted sensors, on the other hand, can be easily installed by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Calibration processes may involve pairing the sensors with the vehicle’s onboard computer system or manually adjusting them.