Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) or manual pressure gauge

A place for open-ended discussion on any car-related topic.
Sarah_Jane1980
Senior
Posts: 70
Joined: Wed May 18, 2022 4:40 pm

Upon acquiring my Sportage in 2018, I was pleased to discover that it was equipped with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) capable of providing specific pressure measurements for each individual wheel. I used a pressure gauge to check the tyre pressures and adjusted them to the appropriate level. Although the garage had already set the pressures to a fair level, I wanted to ensure they were accurate. I then immediately verified the TPMS readings as soon as the rolling pressures were shown, before the tires had a chance to warm up from running. I discovered that the TPMS was indicating the same pressures that I had established using the gauge. I often do this exercise and consistently find that, on my vehicle at least, the TPMS system seems to be precise.

Occasionally, I have observed that the TPMS shows slightly lower pressures on one side of the vehicle compared to the other side. I have concluded that this is likely due to the fact that the side with lower pressures was parked in the shaded area. At times, I see that one tire has a deviation of one pound either greater or lower compared to the others. I attribute this discrepancy to the inherent imprecision of rounding, limits of gauges, or TPMS sensors.

Overall, I consider the TPMS system to provide an accurate representation of the tyre pressures. However, it is advisable to periodically do a "calibration" check using a gauge.
AstonMartinLover
Junior
Posts: 33
Joined: Mon Sep 09, 2019 2:15 pm

The accuracy of Direct TPMS may be considerable. Most pressure gauges exhibit significant inaccuracies, particularly after a few months of usage. Especially more affordable Chinese ones, which includes a large number of them!

The Michelin Eurodainu is the one recommendation I would make. This product has a long history and has been manufactured in Europe according to the EC standard. It is accompanied by certification that guarantees its correctness. If you take care of it, it will remain functional for some years and maintain its accuracy, but none of them can be relied upon indefinitely.

The Draper is just utilitarian, without any exceptional qualities, similar to most of their other products. I am interested in understanding the methodology used by RVUSA to ensure the accuracy of their information.

I am sceptical about the feasibility of developing a durable and consistently precise tire pressure gauge and marketing it at a price range of £12-£15. Or a smaller amount.
Post Reply