Maintaining the correct tyre pressure in vehicles is a critical aspect of road safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre longevity. In India, with its varied climatic conditions and road terrains, car tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) have become an essential feature for both new and old vehicles. This article will delve deep into the details of tyre pressure monitoring systems, their importance, how they work, their legal aspects in India, and the benefits of having such systems installed.
What is a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)?
A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system designed to monitor the air pressure inside pneumatic tyres. The system continuously tracks the tyre pressure and alerts the driver when the pressure drops below the recommended level, ensuring that the tyres are always at optimal pressure.
There are two primary types of TPMS:
- Direct TPMS: This system uses sensors inside the tyres to measure the actual pressure. It gives real-time updates and accurate readings directly from the tyres.
- Indirect TPMS: Instead of measuring actual pressure, indirect TPMS calculates tyre pressure by monitoring wheel speed and other variables through the car’s ABS system.
Both systems aim to improve safety, reduce tyre wear, and enhance fuel efficiency.
Importance of Car Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems in India
In India, where driving conditions can range from extreme heat to monsoon rains and cold hill stations, maintaining proper tyre pressure is even more critical. Tyre blowouts, which are often caused by low tyre pressure, can lead to serious accidents, especially on highways.
Some of the primary reasons for the importance of TPMS in India include:
1. Improved Road Safety
Properly inflated tyres maintain their grip on the road better, which reduces the risk of accidents due to skidding or losing control. A tyre with low pressure is more prone to blowouts, especially on high-speed highways.
2. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, meaning the engine has to work harder to move the car, resulting in lower fuel efficiency. According to studies, a car running on tyres that are 25% below the recommended pressure can see up to a 10% reduction in fuel efficiency.
3. Extended Tyre Lifespan
Tyres that are not properly inflated wear unevenly. With a TPMS car tyre pressure monitoring systems, drivers are promptly alerted when the pressure is low, allowing them to maintain the correct pressure, thus extending the lifespan of their tyres.
4. Environmental Impact
Properly inflated tyres help reduce CO2 emissions by improving fuel efficiency. A well-maintained TPMS contributes indirectly to reducing the vehicle’s carbon footprint, which is crucial given India’s commitment to reducing emissions.
Legal Status of TPMS in India
As of recent years, India has seen increasing regulatory focus on vehicle safety features. While TPMS has not yet been made mandatory for all cars in India, its inclusion is gaining momentum, particularly in high-end and mid-range vehicles.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has been reviewing safety norms and may soon enforce stricter guidelines on the inclusion of advanced safety systems like TPMS. Currently, many new cars in India, especially in the premium segment, come with TPMS as a standard feature.
How Does a TPMS Work?
Direct TPMS
Direct TPMS has a pressure sensor attached to each wheel or tyre. These sensors transmit real-time pressure data to the vehicle’s onboard computer system. If the pressure in any tyre falls below the recommended level, the system triggers a warning light on the dashboard.
Key features of direct TPMS include:
- Real-time pressure readings
- High accuracy
- Instant warning of underinflation
Indirect TPMS
Indirect TPMS relies on the vehicle’s ABS system to monitor wheel rotation speeds. When a tyre’s pressure is low, it has a slightly smaller radius, causing it to rotate faster than the properly inflated tyres. The system compares the rotational speeds and alerts the driver if it detects a significant difference.
Key features of indirect TPMS include:
- No pressure sensors needed
- Utilizes existing vehicle systems
- Less accurate than direct TPMS but more cost-effective
Benefits of Installing a TPMS
1. Early Warning System
One of the most significant benefits of TPMS is the early detection of underinflated tyres. A prompt warning allows drivers to rectify the issue before it becomes critical, helping to prevent accidents or breakdowns.
2. Optimized Performance
A vehicle with properly inflated tyres performs better in terms of handling, braking, and overall ride quality. TPMS ensures that drivers are always aware of their tyre pressure, allowing them to maintain optimal driving conditions.
3. Reduced Maintenance Costs
By ensuring that tyres are always inflated correctly, TPMS helps reduce uneven tyre wear. This means fewer replacements and less frequent trips to the service station.
4. Better Resale Value
Cars equipped with advanced safety features, including TPMS, often have higher resale values, as these features indicate better care and lower risks associated with vehicle safety.
Top Car Models with TPMS in India
Several car manufacturers in India have begun integrating TPMS car tyre pressure monitoring systems as part of their safety packages, especially in premium and mid-segment vehicles. Some of the top models equipped with TPMS include:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Tata Nexon
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno
- Mahindra XUV700
These models come with factory-fitted TPMS systems, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency for drivers.
Some TPMS Car Tyre Pressure Monitoring System Available in Market
How to Install a TPMS in Older Cars?
For those driving older cars or models without a factory-installed TPMS, aftermarket TPMS kits are widely available in India. These kits range from simple dashboard-mounted systems to more advanced, app-connected devices.
Installing a TPMS car tyre pressure monitoring systems in an older car is generally straightforward and can be done at most auto workshops. Prices for TPMS kits in India start at around ₹3,000 and can go up to ₹15,000 for more advanced systems.
Steps for Installation
- Purchase a Compatible TPMS Kit: Choose between direct or indirect systems, depending on your budget and requirements.
- Install Pressure Sensors: For direct TPMS car tyre pressure monitoring systems, sensors will be mounted on the valves of each tyre.
- Connect the Display Unit: The unit, either mounted on the dashboard or connected to your smartphone, receives data from the sensors.
- Calibrate the System: Ensure that the system is calibrated for your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure levels.
Some TPMS Car Tyre Pressure Monitoring System Available in Market
1. Skypearll Car Tire Pressure Monitor Systems with Clock, Solar Power and USB Charge, 4 External Sensors PSI and Temperature Safety Alarm Display, TPMS for Cars
- LAR & USB CHARGING : Skypearll TPMS for cars is high efficiency solar power panel with USB charger cable. Double charging ways can assurance the monitoring system working continuously.
- 6 ALARM METHODS : Provides 6 alarm methods: Fast leak alarm, Slow leak alarm, High pressure alarm, High temperature alarm, Sensor fault alarm, Sensor low battery alarm.
- ADVANCED WIRELESS TPMS SYSTEM : The wireless installation and signal receiving. Allows tire pressure and temperature data to be transmitted in real time, with strong received signals, no interference, and higher stability.
- HIGH-PRECISION EXTERNAL SENSORS : The sensor is small in size and use aviation-grade aluminium material, IP67 waterproof and dustproof. Each sensor has a built-in Freescale chip, so there is no need to worry about corrosion of tire valves suitable for all cars with tire pressure less than 4.0, such as car, RV, trailer, SUV, vans, sports car or MPV, etc.
- DIGITAL LCD SCREEN WITH CLOCK : The LCD display can clearly show the tire’s pressure and temperature in real-time from any angle; and you can manually adjust the display backlight according to the strong and weak environment light to clearly read the screen.
Price :- ₹1,999
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2. Skyshop® Solar A280 TPMS (Car Tire Pressure Monitoring System) (EXTERNAL SENSORS)
- EASY INSTALL, UNIVERSAL, PORTABLE, CHANGE BATTERY, PARTS AVAILABLE, ACCURACY. Quick Installation in 2 Minutes No installation Cost, Suitable with All Cars in the Market having Max Pressure 87 Psi Tubeless & Tube Tires, Can change to other Car if needed, Battery can be easily replaced after 1.5 years. can buy sensor or any part at a reasonable rate if lost or damaged up to 5 Years. Our External Sensor has German chips with High Accuracy 99% + 1 – 1 Accuracy.
- Multiple Types Alarms, Dual Flexible Charging Method, Skyshop TPMS provides Multiple- User-set Alarm Values (including fast leak alarm, high/low-pressure alarm, high-temperature alarm). Our TPMS adapts to dual power supply ( MICRO USB interface + Solar Charging). In the Rainy season when rare sunlight is available, the device can be charged with a car charger, mobile charger or power bank with a micro USB cable.
- Safe & Smart Solar Charge, Our Solar Panel Direct Takes Power From Sunlight & Atmosphere Light and Provide Direct Power to the Display in the Day. Display uses the Battery power Only in the Evening & Night. Solar Panel Charge The Battery When the Battery Is Below 25% and Sun Light is Available. This Feature is Safe & Smart because charging the Display Battery permanently from the Solar Power in the daytime Makes the lithium Battery Swollen because of overcharging & Overheating and can cause Fire.
- Auto Backlight & Sleep & Awake Mode. Skyshop TPMS Comes with an Auto-Adjustable backlight Feature That can display the data in a low light or strong light environment. Real-time monitoring and real-time display of data are the best helpers for driving. It will enter the Sleep energy-saving mode after the vehicle is parked & not have Motion for 5 minutes, and will automatically wake up when the car has vibration or Motion. Prolong product life while saving energy.
- BUY PARTS, IF LOST OR DAMAGE UP TO 5 YEARS. If Any Sensor or Parts are Lost or Damaged for up to 5 Years, then Don’t Worry kindly Contact Our TEAM. We will Provide Parts at Cheap Rates & Help to Connect Them With The Display.
Price :-
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You Can Check Variety Car Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems
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Conclusion
The adoption of Car Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems in India is crucial for improving road safety, fuel efficiency, and the lifespan of tyres. While TPMS is becoming a standard feature in many new vehicles, older vehicles can also benefit from this technology by opting for aftermarket solutions. As Indian roads continue to evolve, the importance of maintaining proper tyre pressure becomes even more apparent. Whether through factory-installed systems or aftermarket kits, TPMS is a valuable tool for every car owner in India.
