What Does TPMS Mean?
When it comes to new technology your vehicle is equipped with, sometimes it’s hard to keep track of what everything does. So what does TPMS mean? TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System, which uses tire pressure sensors to track the air pressure of your tire.
If it senses one or more of your vehicle’s tires aren’t at the recommended pressure, the TPMS warning light on your dashboard will turn on or flash, so you know to add air to your popular model and popular model. Most new vehicles are equipped with this feature so it’s easy for you to drive with confidence knowing that you’re safe out on the Merriam, KS and St. Louis, MO roads.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Features
The purpose of a tire pressure monitoring system is to track the pressure inside your tires and alert you if the levels drop too low. The TPMS dashboard warning light might look like a flat tire with an exclamation point in the middle of it, or it might just be the illuminated letters “TPMS.” If you notice that your tire pressure light is on, it means your tires are underinflated, which could cause:
- Poor traction
- Decreased load-carrying capability
- A flat tire or blowout
- Poor fuel economy
Short-term, proper tire inflation can protect you from a potential accident, and in the long run, it can prevent your tires from wearing out prematurely which in turn can improve your fuel economy if it’s utilized correctly.
Proper Tire Inflation
Both over- and under-inflation of tires can lead to a host of unwanted issues for drivers. Meanwhile, a properly inflated tire will:
- Reduce tread movement thereby increasing the life of the tire
- Reduce rolling resistance which will increase vehicle efficiency
- Increase water dispersion which decreases the likelihood of hydroplaning
It’s always good practice to check your owner’s manual for the most accurate vehicle to best care for your tires. That being said, you also have several options when it comes to filling up your tires when you do need it:
- Many gas stations have tire filling areas separate from the pump station.
- You can take your vehicle to your favorite service center for full tire service.
- If you need a little more air in your tires quickly, you can even use a bike pump!
Maintain Your Vehicle With Porsche Kansas City
We’re here to help you care for your vehicle so you can get back out on the Wichita, KS roads and back to things that matter. If you have more questions about maintaining your tires or need help making sure yours are properly inflated, our Merriam service center team is available. So contact us today to schedule an appointment or you can take a look at our tire center for more information.