what is tpms in a car

You’re driving down the highway when a small yellow light shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation point suddenly glows on your dashboard. It’s not a light you see every day, and it can be a bit puzzling. This little symbol is your car’s way of getting your attention about your tires. It’s part of a system that is a silent guardian for your safety on the road.

So, what is tpms in a car? TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It’s an electronic system designed to monitor the air pressure inside your tires and alert you when they become significantly under-inflated. This simple technology plays a crucial role in keeping you safe, improving your car’s performance, and even saving you money.

Why Your Car Has a TPMS

The main job of your TPMS is safety. Driving on under-inflated tires is a risk. It can lead to poor handling, longer stopping distances, and even a tire blowout, especially at high speeds. After several high-profile accidents linked to under-inflated tires, the U.S. government made TPMS mandatory on all new passenger vehicles starting in 2008. It’s a proactive system that helps you avoid a potentially dangerous situation before it happens.

How the TPMS Knows Your Tire Pressure

There are two main types of TPMS. The most common is a direct system. This uses a small sensor inside each tire, attached to the valve stem. These sensors constantly measure the actual air pressure and send this data wirelessly to your car’s computer. The other type is an indirect system, which uses your car’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) sensors to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel. An under-inflated tire has a slightly smaller diameter and spins faster, which the system can detect.

What to Do When the TPMS Light Comes On

If that yellow warning light illuminates and stays on, it means one or more of your tires is low. The first step is to safely pull over and check your tire pressures with a reliable gauge. Inflate all tires to the recommended PSI, which you can find on a sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb. If the light remains on after inflating the tires, you may have a slow leak or a faulty sensor, and it’s a good idea to visit a tire shop for a professional inspection.

Your car’s TPMS is more than just a dashboard light; it’s a vital safety feature. By paying attention to its warnings and maintaining proper tire pressure, you ensure a smoother ride, better fuel efficiency, and most importantly, a safer journey for you and your passengers.