What is TPMS and how does it work?

TPMS stands for tire pressure monitoring system. This system will warn you if the air pressure in one or more of your vehicle's tires is too low (if there is a 25% decrease or more). This is done through a warning light that will pop up on your vehicle's dashboard. This warning light looks like a horseshoe and has an exclamation point in the center of it. It is important to keep your tires properly inflated for ideal driving conditions. To determine the proper tire inflation for your vehicle, you can look in your owner's manual to see what tire pressure your vehicle manufacturer recommends. We at A & T Auto Care can also give you this information. 

The TPMS system was created because of the influx of accidents caused by uneven tire pressure levels. When the tire pressure warning light first turns on, it is probably because one of your tires is underinflated. This is a crucial time to get a tire inflation service on your vehicle. Sometimes, your tire pressure warning light will turn on and off throughout the day. This is because tire pressure generally decreases as temperatures drop at night, which will cause the TPMS light to turn on. When the temperatures rise and you drive your vehicle throughout the day, the light may disappear, but it is still a good idea to get your tires checked out whenever you see the TPMS light on. 

If your tire pressure warning light flashes for 60-90 seconds after turning on your vehicle then stays on, this means your TPMS system is not working properly. Give A & T Auto Care at (530) 894-5850 a call if this occurs. We have the proper service kit needed to repair your TPMS, which includes a grommet, retaining nut, core and cap. If something is wrong with your TPMS sensor, it may need to be replaced. TPMS batteries generally last for 100,000 miles or for 7-10 years. You can also get TPMS sensors placed on spare or seasonal tires.

There are two types of tire pressure monitoring systems that ultimately result in the illumination of your dashboard light. These are:

-Indirect TPMS: The indirect TPMS measures the rate of tire revolution with the sensors that your vehicles anti-lock braking system uses. This measurement is sent to the on board computer and is compared to the speed of your vehicle's other tires. If one tire is spinning faster than the others, it means it is underinflated. This signal is transmitted via the tire pressure warning light on your vehicle's dashboard.

-Direct TPMS: Direct TPMS uses pressure sensors that are attached to each of your vehicle's tires to monitor the tire pressure, as part of your tire's valve system. Tire temperature readings may also be provided. These measurements are sent to a central control module where it is analyzed and if the tire pressure is uneven, your tire pressure warning light will illuminate. Unlike indirect TPMS, direct TPMS gets a reading on each individual tire, making it more accurate than an indirect TPMS. 

If your vehicle does not have a TPMS sensor or a tire pressure warning dashboard light, there are retrofit kits available that can measure the pressure of all your vehicle's tires.

Chico's top source for automotive maintenance - Your Expert Shop for TPMS

If you are in Butte, the 95973 area or nearby, you can bring your vehicle to A & T Auto Care for various auto repair services, such as automotive maintenance, auto repair, and TPMS support. Our technicians and owner Jeff Sponsler are Exceptional in all things auto repair, and are continuously trained on the latest automotive technology and auto parts. We are one of the highest rated auto shops in the area and can fix your Acura, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, and any other vehicle you may have. 

Why Chico Chooses A & T Auto Care:

• State of The Art Digital Inspections
• ASE Certified Technicians
• 24 month/24,000 Mile Warranty
• Electrical troubleshooting experts
• Dealer Alternative for All Makes and Models

Our services come with a 2/24,000 warranty.

Our technicians are amazingly talented. 

Don't hesitate to bring your vehicle to A & T Auto Care in Chico today! You can schedule an appointment with us online or give us a call at (530) 894-5850.