When it comes to picking a tire pressure monitoring system or TPMS, doing your research could help you pick the best system for your needs and budget. Here is what you need to know.
TPMS come in two variations: there is a direct version and then an indirect version. The only difference is the air valve that is installed at the tires in the direct system. The sensors go to work on the tire, measuring the air pressure and send this information back to the driver who can then simply bring this data up on a screen.
Drivers have the option to set a bar for how much pressure they would like. They adjust the level of pressure they want on the screen and the sensors automatically warn them if the pressure is over or under the desired levels.
But here is the issue, indirect TPMS measures the pressure on all four tires at the same time. It measures the rotating speed of each tire and compares it with the average of all four combined. This can tell if one of the tires is rotating a bit slower, and thus has lower pressure. But if two or more tires have lower pressure, the computer or sensor measures this as the new ‘average’. because of this, the lower pressure in these tires register as ‘normal’. This is why direct systems are considered better than indirect systems.
Important tips to choose correctly
- The frequency of the TPMS could change depending on where in the world you live. The frequency is normally 433.90 MHZ for most parts of the world, but it could be different in some parts. Get the one you need.
- Sensors should keep monitoring pressure in the valves, practically every couple seconds to make sure you get the best reading.
- The data should be sent to the driver who can use it right away. Any delay is unacceptable.
- For ultra safety, get systems that have a military grade battery to power it. Lithium Ion is the most common sort of instrument used to power machines, but they don’t work in extreme temperatures. In very high temperatures, they could explode and in very low ones they could stop working.
- Most countries have laws that require the display to flash red color in case of low pressure to ensure safety. Make sure this option is there.
- While most drivers get the professionals to deal with the installation of a TPMS, and this is the best way to do it, some prefer to do it themselves. If this is the case with you, make sure you read the manual and instal the system carefully.
Important tips to buy the right system
Consider all the factors above and also consider the tire pressure sensor price. Buy the sensor from a reputed dealer or manufacturer and make sure you instal them correctly. Supplier that can be trusted must be contacted for the best sensor quality.
TPMS can save your life if it works properly, so investing in a good kit is surely worth it.