What Does TPMS Mean?

Modern drivers expect high-tech features out of new vehicles, and our selection of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM inventory is no exception. One of these high-tech features is called a TPMS. This can provide great support and stability to your vehicle while driving around Winter Haven and beyond. Find out everything you need to know about a TPMS and it’s benefits in a helpful guide from Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM FIAT of Winter Haven

What Does TPMS Mean for Your Newer Vehicle?

TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It’s a high-tech feature on newer vehicles (2008 model year or later) that uses sensors to track the air pressure of all four tires. The sensors transmit that information wirelessly to your vehicle’s computer.

If your new vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system detects something amiss with one of your vehicle’s tires, the TPMS warning light on your dashboard will turn on or flash to draw your attention. This generally means you need to add air to the tires on your car, truck, or SUV. When you see this warning light appear, the manufacturer recommends stopping and checking your tires as soon as possible.

A TPMS gives you an idea about the current status of your tires, and it can help maintain good vehicle handling when driving around Auburndale and Bartow.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System Features

The tire pressure monitoring system tracks the pressure inside your tires and alerts you if the levels drop below the recommended level. The dashboard warning light could look like a flat tire with an exclamation point in the middle of it. You might just see the illuminated letters “TPMS” on some vehicles. Check your owner’s manual or vehicle information center on your touchscreen for more information on what this dashboard warning light looks like. If you notice that your tire pressure light is on, fix the issue immediately.

Low pressure in your tires could cause a number of bigger problems:

• Poor traction
• Decreased load-carrying capability
• A flat tire or blowout
• Worse fuel economy
• Damaged wheel (expensive to replace)
• Damaged axle (a major expense)

In the immediate future, correct tire inflation can protect you from a potential accident. Less-than-ideal tire pressure could cause poor handling on dirt, gravel, wet or slick roads. You could start hydroplaning, and your anti-lock brakes won’t work as well.

In the long run, optimal tire pressure can prevent your tires from wearing out prematurely and even improve fuel economy by up to 3% in some cases. The U.S. Government Accounting Office in 2007 said underinflated tires led to wasting 1.2 billion gallons of gasoline collectively among all drivers on American roads. Imagine that figure now with gas prices at $3 or more per gallon!

Even with the TPMS, we still recommend looking at your tires at least once per week in Lakeland.

What Does TPMS Mean for Proper Tire Inflation?

A TPMS will help you with both overinflated and under-inflated tires because improper inflation can lead to plenty of unwanted issues.

A properly inflated tire will:

• Reduce tread movement, thereby increasing the life of the tire
• Reduce rolling resistance, which will improve the vehicle’s fuel economy
• Increase water dispersion, which decreases the likelihood of hydroplaning and improves handling on slick roads.

You have several options when it comes to filling up your tires with air:

• Many gas stations have tire filling areas separate from the gas pumps.
• You can take your vehicle to your favorite service center for full tire service.
• Consider keeping an electric air compressor and a tire repair kit in your cargo area for emergencies.
• If you need a little more air in your tires quickly, you can even use a bike pump!

Trust Your Tires With Our Team in Winter Haven!

When you bring your new or used vehicle in for service, we can check your tires to make sure they have the right inflation, look over the tread wear, and tell you if you need a tire rotation. Contact us or call 863-269-3438 to schedule an appointment. Our team can handle tires for all makes and models of vehicles, and we have a selection of tires on hand if you need a set of new ones.