What is tpms and how does it work?

Modern cars rely on a wide range of electronic systems that not only make driving more comfortable but also directly affect safety and efficiency on the road. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System, commonly known as TPMS, is one of them. This vehicle technology help drivers avoid the hidden dangers of underinflated or overinflated tires. To fully understand tpms meaning, it is necessary to look deeper into what tasks it performs and how it operates. 

Purpose of TPMS

What is tpms? For many drivers, TPMS is more than just a warning light on the dashboard — it is a crucial assistant that continuously monitors the health of the tires and provides peace of mind during every trip. Simply to say, it measures tire pressure.

In one of our articles, we already mentioned tyre pressure and its role. Remember that recommendations for pressure standards may vary depending on different temperatures and load levels on the car. Without an implemented sensor and system, it is difficult to track this indicator yourself.

Low pressure can lead to higher fuel consumption, poor handling, reduce vehicle stability, extend braking distance, and increase the risk of tire blowouts. That is why the answer to what function does the tpms perform is clear: it improves driving safety and saves costs.

How does TPMS work?

The operation of TPMS is based on continuous data collection and communication between the sensors and the vehicle’s onboard computer. The system tracks pressure data specifically and analyses that data. If the pressure drops below the recommended level, the system immediately sends a warning to the driver through a light on the dashboard. This mechanism explains how does tire pressure monitoring system work.

In practice, TPMS allows the driver to react before a small problem turns into a serious failure. For example, if a tire loses air slowly due to a nail puncture, the system will alert the driver long before the wheel becomes critically deflated. This gives time to safely stop and fix the issue, preventing accidents or expensive damage to the tire sidewalls.

However, the way how do tire pressure sensors work depends on the type of system installed in the car. Some models use indirect monitoring, relying on ABS data, while others are equipped with direct sensors inside each wheel. Both approaches aim to solve the same problem but differ significantly in accuracy, cost, and functionality.

Direct and indirect TPMS

TPMS and inCarDoc

Drivers can monitor car health with the help of mobile applications and OBD-II adapters. Among such tools, inCarDoc stands out as an advanced solution that turns an ordinary smartphone into a multifunctional diagnostic device. By connecting via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, the app can read vehicle parameters directly from the car’s electronic system.

Among a long list of real-time parameters, inCarDoc reads absolute air pressure. Absolute pressure is the total pressure relative to absolute vacuum. It includes atmospheric pressure. Tire monitor system sensors sometimes measure absolute pressure, and the control unit converts it into gauge pressure to display an understandable result. In other words, absolute air pressure directly relates to tyre pressure, but in practice, motorists use gauge pressure.

If the ABS warning light comes on during the trip, the app can help. Launch OBD2 diagnostics with inCarDoc to find possible issue.

By monitoring not only the tyres, but also the engine and other important systems, the driver can detect potential problems in a timely manner and avoid costly repairs.

Tyre monitoring as one of the important steps

Understanding what is tpms allows drivers to appreciate its safety benefits. Indirect systems are affordable but less accurate, while direct ones deliver precision. Using apps like inCarDoc makes pressure monitoring easier and more accessible, placing vital car data right on your phone.

You can order the adapter today via our website and soon try out the new possibilities of automotive diagnostics.