If you own a new Kia vehicle, you may have noticed a feature called “TPMS” on your dashboard. But do you know what it stands for and how it works? What does “TPMS” mean to your safety and your wallet? Our service department wants you to stay safe on our Nampa roads, so we explain below everything you need to know about TPMS, or Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and why it is an essential safety feature for your car.
The Two Types of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
TPMS is a system that monitors the air pressure inside your tires and warns you if it falls below or above a certain level.There are two types of TPMS: direct and indirect. Direct TPMS uses sensors inside each tire to measure the pressure and send it to a display on your dashboard. Indirect TPMS uses the wheel speed sensors of your anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect changes in tire rotation speed that indicate pressure loss.
What Does TPMS Mean for Your Safety and Wallet?
Your car’s TPMS system will alert you to low or high tire pressure, which can affect your car’s handling, braking, fuel economy, and tire life. It can also increase the risk of tire blowouts, which can cause serious accidents. Keeping the tires properly inflated, on the other hand, can extend their lives and help prevent accidents. But TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire care. It is only designed to warn you of sudden or significant changes in tire pressure that could pose a safety hazard. Caldwell drivers should still inspect their tires for wear and tear, rotate them periodically, and replace them when needed. Our service center can help you with all these tasks and more.
What Should You Do When the TPMS Light Appears?
When you see this symbol, you should check your tire pressure as soon as possible and inflate or deflate them accordingly. You can use a tire gauge or visit our service center for assistance. You should also check your tire pressure regularly, at least once a month, as part of your routine maintenance. This will help you avoid false alarms from the Tire Pressure Monitoring System and ensure optimal performance from your tires.
The Service Center at Dennis Dillon Kia of Boise Can Help
The trained professionals in our service center can help you keep on top your tire maintenance, including regular tire rotation. And our tire store is here to help when it’s time to replace those tires. Just be sure to take advantage of our service specials. We’re just a short drive away from Meridian, so drop by or contact us today!
