Tyre sensors play a vital role in keeping you safe on the road by constantly monitoring pressure levels and alerting you to potential issues. This guide explains how tyre pressure sensors (TPMS) work, why they’re essential for both run-flat and standard tyres, and how to tell if yours need maintenance or replacement.
The role of a tyre sensor is to monitor the pressure inside a tyre, illuminating a warning light on the dashboard when the tyre drops below its optimum pressure.
It is, in the simplest terms, a safety tool which is responsible for ensuring drivers are made aware of a drop in pressure, maintaining control of their vehicle in the process.
Of course, there are different ways in which tyre sensors come in useful – with drivers who opt for run flat tyres relying on these sensors to inform them of a puncture or significant damage to the tyre, while others simply use the sensor to indicate a drop in pressure due to weather or minor damage.
In this article, we’re taking you through the design and use of tyre sensors, explaining exactly how they work and how to ensure that yours are in good working order.
The Use of Tyre Sensors With Run Flat Tyres
Any driver who opts for run flat tyres will be familiar with their vehicle’s TPMS. This TPMS uses tyre sensors, which are connected to the dashboard, to let you know when tyres have suffered damage on the road.
This is particularly important because the design of run flat tyres ensures that even a complete flat or tyre blowout does not lead to a loss of control. The reinforced sidewall and solid build of run flat tyres means that the wheels remain supported even after the tyre has blown – with the TPMS responsible for letting drivers know their tyre is damaged and needs repair work.
Why a Working Tyre Sensor is So Crucial
A working tyre sensor ensures that you, as the driver, remain aware of your tyre pressure reading. It does this by providing real time information about your tyre pressure to the vehicle dashboard.
Tyre pressure doesn’t just keep the tyre inflated and rotating smoothly. It also impacts the amount of control you have when steering, braking and navigating corners, and facilitates a smooth drive.
If the tyre sensor is faulty, you may not learn about an underinflated tyre in sufficient time to repair it, which can increase the risk of blowout on the road and also cause lasting damage to the wheel.
