19 Dec Why You Need to Pay Attention to Your Tire Pressure Monitor
Today’s vehicles come equipped with a variety of monitors and alerts that are designed to keep you safe and make sure that your vehicle is operating at an optimal level. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is perhaps one of the most important of these alerts and it plays an important role in the overall health of your vehicle. Learn more about what you can learn from your TPMS and why you should stop ignoring warnings.
What Does the TPMS Do?
No matter what make or model you drive, your TPMS essentially works the same. It relies on a sensor that is attached to each one of your wheels and works to measure the air pressure in individual tires. If the air pressure in one or more of your tires drops below a certain point, the indicator with light up on your dashboard. Unfortunately, it is all too common for drivers to ignore this light and continue to drive on low tires that could be well on their way to being completely flat.
Why is the TPMS Important?
Maintaining proper tire pressure is such an important issue when it comes to safety and maintenance that Congress took steps to require that all vehicles manufactured after 2006 come equipped with a TPMS. Low tire pressure can make it more difficult to handle your vehicle, increase tire wear and create poor tread, increase the amount of distance it takes to safely brake and eat away at fuel economy. Simply keeping tire pressure at a recommended level will improve your safety, especially in slick or challenging driving conditions and save you money at the pump.
What Should I Do if My Pressure Indicator Comes On?
Make your way to a gas station as soon as possible, check your air pressure and inflate any low tires. If you aren’t sure about the manufacturer’s recommended pressure for your tires, consult your car manual or on the body of the car at the driver’s door. Once the tire has been filled, the indicator light will go off.
If your tire is flat, replace it with your spare tire and make your way to the nearest tire shop in Jacksonville, Florida. A technician will be able to identify the source of the problem and provide advice. You may be able to simply patch a puncture and not have to worry about having to pay to replace the tire.
The last thing you want to do is ignore alerts from your TPMS. Not only will this put you at greater risk, it could also result in the need for repairs that could have been avoided. The TPMS is meant to keep you safe, ensure peak performance and prolong the life of your tires and other essential components.
For expert advice and a team of professional and highly trained technicians, visit JJ’s Auto Care in Jacksonville, Florida today. With our convenient location, it couldn’t be easier to maintain your vehicle and make sure that you are taking full advantage of your vehicle’s TPMS.