TPMS: everything you need to know

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is an automatic tire pressure monitoring system for your vehicle. It has been installed on new cars since 2015 and warns the motorist about problems related to tire pressure. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the TPMS system: its role, how to program it, and what is its price!

💨 What is TPMS?

This automatic tire pressure monitoring system has been Made mandatory for all new vehicles from 2015 European Regulation No. 661/2009.

TMPS will play 3 key roles in your car. First, it guarantees you safety maintaining good tire pressure while driving. Secondly, it allows keep your Tires premature wear... Finally, this is the part environmentally responsible approach... In fact, good tire pressure limits rolling resistance and therefore avoids excessive fuel consumption. fuel.

The TPMS is a two-piece wheel sensor:

1. SENSORS : This is the black plastic part of the sensor, the sensor battery needs to be changed every 5 years;
2. Service kit : Indicates all other system components, i.e. seal, core, nut and valve cap. Given the significant risk of corrosion and loss of the seal, it must be replaced every year.

The TPMS must be serviced by a professional in the workshop. In fact, after diagnostics, the sensor may need to reprogramming и Reset must be performed from the on-board computer of the car.

💡 Direct or indirect TPMS?

The automatic tire pressure monitoring system can be direct or indirect, depending on the model and make of the vehicle. These two different systems have the following characteristics:

• Direct TPMS system : The tire pressure is calculated using several sensors located inside the tires. If the pressure is insufficient or too strong, a warning light on the dashboard will light up to indicate which tire is affected;
• Indirect TMPS system : in this system, the tire pressure is calculated using anti-lock braking system and anti-lock braking system (ABS et ESP). The warning light on the dashboard will also come on.

👨‍🔧 How to program TPMS sensor?

If you have installed a TPMS sensor on your tires, there are several methods for programming it, depending on the car manufacturers and models. Thus, 3 different methods allow you to program the TPMS sensor to synchronize with the vehicle:

1. Manual learning : After about ten minutes of driving, the vehicle can automatically read the sensor readings. When this time has elapsed, the TPMS warning light will go out. This system is used in particular by Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Mazda and Volkswagen;
2. Self-learning : A precise activation procedure must be followed with several steps such as starting, using the clutch in a specific order. This is especially the case for Audi, BMW or Porsche;
3. Built-in diagnostic interface : OBD-II connector must be used to synchronize the system with the vehicle's on-board diagnostic interface. We find this method in Toyota, Nissan or Lexus.

🛠️ How to disable TPMS sensor?

If your vehicle is equipped with a TPMS sensor, turning it off is strictly prohibited... Indeed, it is the equipment that guarantees your safety and limits your CO2 emissions.

In the event of a police check or during technical control, it must be activated, otherwise you risk getting a fine or a refusal to pass technical control.

💸 How much does a TPMS sensor cost?

If your car is manufactured before 2015, it will not be equipped with a TPMS sensor. However, you can install it if you want to have this feature. Many models are sold in the automotive market and most often come in the form of a kit.

Thus, this kit consists of a receiver for the dashboard as well as 4 sensors to be placed inside each wheel with valve covers specific. It's best to hire a professional to get it set up correctly.

On average, the kit will be sold between 50 € and 130 € by brands and models. It takes 1 hour of work to work. In total it will cost you from 75 € and 230 €.

The automatic tire pressure monitoring system is a very useful device to improve the safety of your vehicle. Maintaining good tire pressure is essential to ensure the longevity of your tires and also helps to ensure good traction!