Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) is an essential safety feature in modern cars. It uses sensors that detect whether the tire pressure is accurate or not. It typically consists of sensors placed inside each tire, a receiver module, and a display on the dashboard that alerts the driver to any deviations from the recommended tire pressure.
While TPMS offers undeniable safety benefits, some car owners have raised concerns about its potential impact on the vehicle’s battery life. Today, we will debunk the myths surrounding TPMS and its supposed drain on car batteries, providing you with accurate information to ease any concerns you may have.
TPMS and Battery Drain: Separating Fact from Fiction
TPMS typically does not drain the vehicle’s battery significantly. Generally, TPMS sensors have two types: Direct and Indirect TPMS sensors. These are designed to consume very low power and are designed to operate for several years without needing a battery replacement.
TPMS sensors use radio frequency to transmit data to the vehicle’s onboard computer, which then displays the tire pressure information to the driver. The sensors are equipped with low-power transmitters that send periodic signals to the vehicle’s receiver. These signals are intermittent and consume minimal power.
However, if the TPMS sensors are faulty or malfunctioning, it’s possible that they could draw more power than usual, which might lead to a slight drain on the battery over an extended period.
Here are some myths that are common among the motorists:
Myth Number 1: TPMS Sensors Continuously Transmit Data, Draining The Car Battery
TPMS sensors do transmit data wirelessly, but it’s important to note that they operate on extremely low power consumption. They are designed to transmit data periodically or in response to specific events, such as tire losing pressure or the vehicle’s movement.
The power requirements of TPMS sensors are minimal, and they have been engineered to have a negligible impact on the car’s battery life. Plus, if you decide to take the sensors out, it is not safe to drive without TPMS.
Myth Number 2: Leaving The Car Parked For An Extended Period With TPMS Active Can Drain The Battery
Regardless of the tire types you choose, the tire pressure sensors don’t deactivate the car battery. TPMS systems are designed to operate even when the vehicle is parked. However, they enter a power-saving mode during extended periods of inactivity, reducing power consumption to a minimum.
The power drawn from TPMS in this state is typically so low that it does not pose a significant risk of draining the car battery.
Myth Number 3: A Faulty Tpms Sensor Can Drain The Car Battery
While it is possible for a faulty TPMS sensor to malfunction and causes abnormal power consumption, such instances are rare. Manufacturers rigorously test TPMS sensors to ensure they meet quality standards and minimize the chances of any electrical faults.
Tips To Preserve Your Car Battery
Although TPMS does not pose a significant risk of draining your car battery, it’s always good practice to take measures to preserve battery life. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy battery:
- Extended periods of inactivity can lead to battery discharge. Regular driving helps keep the battery charged.
- Faulty components, such as a malfunctioning alternator or a parasitic electrical draw, can cause battery drain.
- When parked, turn off headlights, interior lights, and any other electrical accessories to minimize power consumption.
- Ensure the battery terminals are clean and securely tightened to maintain a good electrical connection.
Therefore, this concludes that the car TPMS sensors don’t pose any damage or drain in the vehicle battery. A TPMS usually lasts 5 to 10 years. However, it has a battery that may drain. This will require a new tire pressure sensor.
Keep reading the Porcsi Blog to receive expert guidelines on TPMS sensors.