TPMS sensors or tire pressure monitoring system sensors are used to monitor the air pressure inside one or more pneumatic tires in a vehicle.

As an integral part of a vehicle’s TPMS, these electronic devices send alerts to the driver when the air pressure on any one of the tires is dangerously low. In simple terms, it is a safety device that helps prevent accidents due to overinflated or underinflated tires.

How Tire Pressure Sensor Works and How Long It Lasts

Using low-frequency radio, this device sends information about the tire’s pressure to the car’s computer system. It communicates vital information in real-time. A driver can receive alerts through a low-pressure warning light, from a gauge or via a pictogram display.

Typically running on batteries, a tire pressure sensor may be installed in the pressurised pocket between a vehicle’s wheel and tire. In some cases, it is built into a tire’s valve stem cap.

The estimated service life of TPMS sensors is anywhere between 5 to 10 years. Technological advancements in the batteries of future models are expected to extend their service life.

Benefits of Having a Tire Pressure Sensor

A properly working sensor is integral for the TPMS to promptly communicate life-saving information to the driver. It can likewise promote proper tire maintenance which can also mean savings for you in the long run.

For one, keeping the tire’s pressure at prescribed levels can prevent premature wear and tear in vehicles. It helps maintain the car’s stability as a result of even weight distribution.

Better vehicle handling may also be achieved through proper tire inflation since the right amount of traction can be sustained. In addition, fuel efficiency resulting from lower rolling resistance can likewise be possible as long as your tires remain in good shape.

Maintenance Tips for a Tire Pressure Sensor

This safety device not only protects your vehicle, but it safeguards your life too. For this reason, it is crucial to ensure that your TPMS sensor is in good working condition so that it can function as expected.

One of the things you can do is to keep track of the sensor’s battery life. To be more specific, know when it was replaced, so you can more or less gauge when it’s time to change it already.

It should be noted though that, sometimes, a malfunctioning sensor is more than just a dead battery problem. It can be due to a damaged sensor which is not unusual if the tires are frequently exposed to bad road conditions. While the device is designed to withstand various elements, it is not immune to damages. So, if possible, minimise driving on rough roads.

Let professionals replace your sensors to ensure that it is done properly. Complex technical glitches such as wiring issues and improper calibration, specifically failure to program or reset the sensor, can also prevent the TPMS from working properly.

Tire Pressure Sensor Can Be Disabled

While the sensor and the entire tire pressure monitoring system are very useful, some prefer to disable them to avoid inconveniences. You see, the sensor or the TPMS may give inaccurate readings at times.

Your vehicle may alert you that your tire pressure is low even if it is not. Just as it would when there is a legitimate issue, the warning light on your car’s vehicle turns on when there are inaccurate readings.

Dealing with these issues can be inconvenient and even annoying, especially when they keep happening. It can also be dangerous as some drivers admit that the warning light can be distracting. Moreover, it can be expensive as owners would often bring their vehicles to the dealership or service centre to determine the issue.

Due to these issues, some vehicle owners are opting to disable their TPMS using an emulator. A TPMS bypass device works by preventing the sensor and the car’s computer system from communicating.

One good thing about using an emulator is that it’s non-invasive – no need to open up your vehicle or reprogram your car’s computer system. As it does not permanently change anything in your car, you can use your TPMS again when you want to. You just have to remove or turn off the emulator and your TPMS is going to start tracking your tires’ air pressure level.

In summary, a TPMS sensor enables you to enjoy driving but keep the whole journey safe as well. In return, however, you need to be a responsible car owner. Make sure that it is properly installed and in tiptop condition. Should you notice any irregularities, do not waste time to have it checked at a reputable service centre.

On the other hand, if you feel that your TPMS keeps malfunctioning, you may want to use a bypass emulator. Disabling your TPMS is a good option if the issue has become an inconvenience and more importantly, a source of distraction. Just make sure though that you check the air pressure of your tires at least once a month.

Do your tire pressure sensors keep malfunctioning? Tired of dealing with the same issues? Why not consider using a TPMS bypass emulator? Visit our website today and choose the emulator that matches your car’s make and model!