Next to brakes, a vehicle’s tires are its most important safety feature. As the only part of the car that comes in direct contact with the road, it’s crucial that they are well maintained. Proper tire inflation ensures that the vehicle is running smoothly and efficiently and can even improve fuel economy.
Consequently, newer vehicles come with a built in Tire Pressure Monitoring System that warns the driver when tire pressure is low via a light on the dashboard. The system is composed of sensors attached to each wheel that transmit information to the vehicle’s computer.
When tire inflation is low, the sensors send a signal to the computer which then alerts the driver. If your TPMS light comes on, bring your car in immediately. It’s dangerous to drive with low tire pressure and waiting to get a puncture fixed could lead to more serious problems.