What is the Difference Between Direct and Indirect TPMS?

Have you ever had the feeling that something is not quite right with your car, but can’t put your finger on it? Enter the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, or TPMS – a tool for keeping an eye on your vehicle’s tires so you don’t have to. Let’s dive into how this system works and why it is your machine’s best friend.

TPMS comes in two varieties: Direct and Indirect. Both have the same goal of keeping your tires at the perfect pressure, but they go about it in slightly different ways.

Direct TPMS:

Direct TPMS uses sensors inside each tire to measure the exact pressure. These sensors are like little tire doctors, constantly taking pressure readings and sending them to the vehicle’s computer. If one of the tires starts feeling a bit under the weather (i.e., low on air), a warning lights up on the dashboard. Some systems can even monitor tire temperature.

Indirect TPMS:

Indirect TPMS is a bit more like a tire detective than a tire doctor, in the sense that it doesn’t measure pressure directly. Instead, it monitors the tire’s rotation speed using the car’s ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) sensors. If a tire is low on air, it will spin faster than the others. The system picks up on this and sends an alert via the dashboard warning light. It is a bit less precise than Direct TPMS, but less expensive and doesn’t require any maintenance.

Why Bother with TPMS?

1. Safety First: TPMS helps avoid danger by making sure that your tires are always properly inflated. Better tire pressure means better handling and shorter stopping distances.
2. Save on Gas: Did you know that low tire pressure can make your vehicle guzzle more gas? Properly inflated tires roll easier, improving your fuel efficiency and saving you money at the pump.
3. Longer Tire Life: Tires are expensive, so you want them to last as long as possible. Correct tire pressure means even wear and tear, so you won’t have to replace them as often.
4. Be Green: Less gas consumption means fewer emissions. Keeping your tires inflated properly is an easy way to be a bit more eco-friendly.

In a nutshell, TPMS is looking out for your safety, your wallet, and even the environment. So next time you see that little warning light pop up on your dashboard, check the tires and thank your TPMS! If you’re still unsure about how to use your TPMS system or keep your tires inflated, Feel free to contact us at OTRUSA.COM, or give us a call at +1-855-687-8721! We have over 20 years of experience in the industry, and our specialists are happy to answer any questions and provide good quality tires to serve all your needs and maximize the performance of your vehicle.