Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

The United States government has passed legislation that requires all new passenger vehicles (beginning with 2007 model year vehicles) to be equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. The main purpose of these systems is to warn the driver if their tires are losing air pressure, leaving the tires under inflated and dangerous.Maintaining the correct tire pressure for a vehicle is the variable in how much load its tires can safely carry. The correct pressure will carry the weight without a problem. Too little tire pressure will eventually cause catastrophic tire failure.

Studies have shown that running tires with too little air pressure is not uncommon. It’s been estimated that about one out of every four vehicles on the road is running on under inflated tires. This also means that one out of every four drivers is needlessly sacrificing their vehicle’s fuel economy and handling, and reducing their tires’ durability and tread life.

Below are typical dashboard warning lights alerting the driver of a tire not inflated properly. For more information you can go to: http://www.checkmytires.com/ or you can always ask us.

Typical dashboard tire pressure monitor warning lights

Although it becomes law in 2007, many vehicles built in the last few years have been equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. While we see the importance of this system we feel obligated to let our customers know that this technology is new and has many problems and flaws. We have already seen many false warning lights. The systems are complicated and special equipment is needed for some vehicle models to reset the light. Also, the sensors in the wheels can wear out or become damaged and may have to be replaced in the future.

It’s our advice that you still practice common sense and have you tire pressure checked at least once a month. And please remember, most vehicles manufactured prior to 2007 do not have a tire pressure monitoring system. As always, if you have a question about your tires or need your tire pressure checked, just stop by. We will be glad to check your tires and refill to the proper inflation at no charge.