Tire Service & TPMS
Dec 18, 2015
A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system designed to monitor the air pressure inside a tire. All vehicles manufactured after 2007 are required to have a TPMS installed by the manufacture of the vehicle. For vehicles pre-2007, aftermarket solutions may be available.
The TPMS system is identifiable either via a gauge, a pictogram display or by a symbol that is located on the dashboard of the car. There are two different types of TPMS systems. The first type is a Direct system in which there is an actual TPMS monitor in each tire that is linked to the main system.This system allows for independent monitoring of each tire.The second system is referred to as an Indirect system in which the vehicle monitors the ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and if a change in rotational speed of either a single tire or multiple tires is identified the system will indicate attention is required.
How do you know that there is an issue: the symbol will illuminate and stay on when the ignition is turned to the “on” position. Consumers are advised not to solely rely on this system to ensure that your tires are properly inflated as system sensitivity varies widely. Regular monitoring and adjustment of your tire pressure will ensure predictable suspension and braking characteristics and optimum fuel economy.
There are many factors that affect the air pressure of a tire; driving conditions, weight/towing, weather, and the age of the tire/valve stem/TPMS system itself. Did you know that tires can leak air throughout the year naturally? Again, another good reason to understand the specifications of your vehicle and ensure the tire pressure is appropriately maintained.
Your tires are the only point of contact your vehicle has with the road. Properly mounted, balanced, and fitted tire and wheel assemblies will ensure you receive the maximum comfort, tread life and safety that quality tires can deliver. Tires are much more than “round, black and hold air,” they are an integral part of your vehicle’s comfort and safety systems. Extreme under/over-inflation can lead to serious issues including the tire self-destructing, damage to wheel assembly and vehicle suspension not to forget even causing the vehicle to leave the road! Other issues due to incorrect inflation would be fuel efficiency and irregular tire wear.
In the event that your TPMS indicator light stays illuminated, you notice irregular wear on any of your tires, your fuel efficiency has decreased or you are experiencing handling issues with your vehicle it is a sign that you need to visit your local OK Tire dealer to troubleshoot your issue. As noted above, there are a variety of different areas that may affect what you are experiencing. What we do is ask you for information about what you are experiencing, we inspect each tire, we use a TPMS trouble-shooting computer and link it to your vehicles system to diagnose the issue. Once the issue is diagnosed, we provide you with the findings and a estimate of any work that may be required.
Your tires are integral part of the safety of your vehicle whether it is your or your passengers/family riding in it!
Source: http://www.oktire.com/en/auto-service/tire-service--tpms