What Is TPMS and How Does It Work?
If you have ever noticed a yellow warning light shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation mark inside, your vehicle’s TPMS is alerting you to a tyre pressure issue.
At Uni Tyres Mobile Tyres Services, we regularly assist customers with tyre pressure monitoring system faults, low tyre pressure warnings, and sensor valve issues. As a fully mobile tyre fitting service based in Dawley Parade, Hayes, we operate without a physical garage and come directly to your home, workplace, or roadside location.
Whether you are driving through Uxbridge, commuting from Ealing, or heading towards Slough, we are here to help.
What Is TPMS?
TPMS stands for Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. It is a built-in safety system designed to monitor your vehicle’s tyre pressure and alert you if it falls below the recommended level.
TPMS has been mandatory in all new cars manufactured since 2014.
The purpose of TPMS is to:
- Improve road safety
- Reduce the risk of accidents
- Improve fuel efficiency
- Extend tyre lifespan
How Does TPMS Work?
There are two main types of TPMS:
1. Direct TPMS
Direct TPMS uses physical pressure sensors installed inside each tyre. These sensors:
- Measure tyre pressure in real time
- Transmit readings wirelessly to the vehicle’s onboard computer
- Trigger a dashboard warning light if pressure drops
This system provides accurate, real-time pressure readings and gives immediate alerts if a tyre loses pressure.
2. Indirect TPMS
Indirect TPMS does not use pressure sensors. Instead, it works through the ABS wheel speed sensors.
If one tyre rotates faster than the others, the system interprets this as a potential pressure loss and triggers a warning light.
While indirect TPMS is less precise than direct TPMS, it still provides useful early warnings.
What Does the TPMS Warning Light Mean?
If your TPMS warning light appears, it may indicate:
- Low tyre pressure
- A puncture
- Pressure drop due to cold weather
- Sensor malfunction
- Damaged valve
Tyre pressure naturally decreases during colder temperatures, which is why warning lights are more common in winter months.
Why Correct Tyre Pressure Matters
Driving with incorrect tyre pressure can result in:
- Increased braking distance
- Uneven tyre wear
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Poor handling and stability
- Higher risk of tyre blowouts
Maintaining the correct pressure is especially important for motorway driving and long-distance travel.
What Happens When a TPMS Sensor Fails?
TPMS sensors contain small internal batteries that typically last between 5 to 7 years.
Signs of a faulty TPMS sensor include:
- Flashing TPMS warning light
- Warning light remaining on after inflating tyres
- Incorrect pressure readings
In many cases, the sensor valve may need replacement.
At Uni Tyres Mobile Tyres Services, we provide TPMS diagnostics and sensor valve replacement at your location.
Should You Ignore a TPMS Warning?
No.
Even if your tyre appears normal, low pressure can cause internal structural damage.
If your TPMS warning light appears:
- Check tyre pressures immediately.
- Inspect for visible damage or punctures.
- Avoid long-distance driving.
- Arrange professional inspection if unsure.
Driving with low tyre pressure can lead to irreversible tyre damage and safety risks.
Mobile TPMS & Tyre Services – We Come to You
As a fully mobile tyre fitting service, we offer:
- TPMS diagnostics and sensor valve replacement
- Mobile tyre fitting
- 24/7 emergency call-out service
- Puncture repair
- Wheel balancing
- Emergency battery jump start
- Locking wheel nut removal
We inspect your tyres and TPMS system and recommend the safest solution.
Areas We Cover
We cover Hayes and surrounding areas including:
Uxbridge, Ickenham, Northwood, Greenford, Perivale, Acton, West Drayton, Yiewsley, Feltham, Brentford, Chiswick, Teddington, Sunbury-on-Thames, Staines-upon-Thames, Ashford, Maidenhead, Langley, Datchet, Gerrards Cross, Denham, Beaconsfield, Iver, Edgware, Stanmore, and Pinner.
Need TPMS Assistance?
If you are experiencing TPMS issues, do not delay.
Location: Dawley Parade, Hayes
Phone: 0794 0747676
Email: info@uni-tyres.com
Available 24/7 for emergency tyre services.
Final Thoughts
TPMS is an essential vehicle safety feature designed to alert you to tyre pressure problems before they become dangerous.
Understanding how your TPMS works helps you maintain safe driving conditions and avoid costly tyre damage.
For professional mobile TPMS diagnostics and sensor valve replacement in Hayes and surrounding areas, contact Uni Tyres Mobile Tyres Services today.
Call 0794 0747676 – Mobile tyre specialists at your location.
Recent Blogs
