What Does TPMS Mean?

Closeup Of Mechanic At Repair Service Station Checking Tyre Pressure With Gauge
If the letters “TPMS” have recently appeared on your dashboard, your Tire Pressure Monitoring System is trying to get you to put some air in your tires. What does “TPMS” mean exactly? If you see this dashboard warning light, one or more of your tires has fallen at least 25% below the recommended air pressure level. If the wheels on your vehicle look alright, make sure to check the spare, too! These usually come with an integrated tire pressure sensor of their own.

The TPMS warning light will also appear in the event of a rapid deflation–the result of a blowout or a flat–but in these cases, you’ll probably notice the issue itself before you notice the dash light! Get the answers to other frequently asked questions by reading on.

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How Does The Tire Pressure Monitoring System Work?

In vehicles with a standard TPMS, each of your tires will come equipped with an integrated air pressure sensor. Each sensor assesses the pressure in your tires on a constant basis, so you can be aware of any significant changes as soon as they occur.

It’s important to note that the TPMS light will come on if any of the sensors detect low air pressure, so you should check on all of your tires whenever you see this warning on your dash.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is there another symbol for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System? Instead of displaying the letters TPMS, some vehicles will display a symbol that looks like a flat fire with an exclamation mark in the middle.
  • What do I do if my TPMS light comes on? The vast majority of gas stations near Deptford and Voorhees offer air pumps that you can use for a small fee. You can also schedule tire service at Chevrolet Of Turnersville or use a bike pump in a pinch. Check the recommended pressure for your tires and fill them up as soon as possible.
  • What is the recommended tire pressure for my vehicle? Check your owner’s manual, or the manual that came with your tires. In most cases, where passenger vehicles are concerned, the recommended tire pressure falls between 30 and 35 PSI.
  • What if my TPMS light won’t go off? Check the spare tire. If this doesn’t solve the problem, schedule service so we can assess the state of your tire pressure sensors. If your TPMS light goes off after refilling your tires, but then comes on again in short order, you may be in need of a new set of tires.
  • Why do my tires keep losing air pressure? The loss of air pressure in tires is entirely natural and normal. Tires lose up to one pound of pressure per square inch (PSI) per month, and temperature fluctuations can exacerbate losses.
  • When should I check my tire pressure? If you’re looking for a more precise readout than your TPMS can provide, check your tire pressure in the morning before you start to drive. (Driving heats up the air in your tires, increasing the pressure and impacting your reading.) Check your pressure at least once per month, and more often if possible.

What Are The Benefits Of Proper Tire Inflation?

Owning a vehicle is already plenty of work. Why should you keep a constant eye on your tire pressure? This one’s simple: your tires are some of the most important safety features on your vehicle, and they will only work as intended when filled to the proper pressure.

In addition to a safer drive on Turnersville and Cherry Hill roads, maintaining proper tire pressure will net you:

  • Reduced tread movement and lower rates of tire tread wear
  • Reduced rolling resistance and higher average fuel economy
  • Reduced risk of hydroplaning and improved traction in all conditions
  • Reduced risk of flat tires or blowouts

Chevrolet Of Turnersville: Your Source For Tire Service

In need of tire rotation? Ready to pick up a new set of tires for your vehicle? Want someone to take a look at your tires or your Tire Pressure Monitoring System? We’ve got you covered, and we’re easy to reach from anywhere near Deptford