Direct Vs Indirect TPMS Sensors

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has become a very important safety feature in modern vehicles. Considering OEM and ODM TPMS sensors, several other types of tire pressure sensors are available in the market. For instance, two major types of TPMS sensors are direct and Indirect tire pressure sensors.

While the major difference between direct and indirect TPMS is the way of transmitting information and reading, other factors distinguish both types. Let’s go through this complete guide and distinguish between direct &  indirect TPMS sensors.

Differences Between Direct & Indirect TPMS Sensors
Both these types of TPMS sensors serve the same purpose which is determining the tire pressure. Therefore, you can equip any of the two to improve tires’ health and performance. Besides, certain vehicles have their specifications and may come equipped with direct or indirect TPMS sensors.

Let’s go through the details of each of these tire pressure sensors.

Direct TPMS Sensors
The direct tire pressure monitoring sensors measure specific pressure and temperature levels. After that, they transmit the information directly to the control unit of the car\’s computer. Furthermore, if the pressure level is fine but the TPMS is not working, it will trigger the dashboard warning light.

Batteries of a direct TPMS sensor last longer than the indirect sensors. Direct TPMS sensors generally provide highly accurate results. That said, the direct tire pressure sensor relies on calculations and tire inflation levels.

Indirect TPMS Sensors
Direct TPMS sensors directly monitor the pressure and transfer the information to the car computers and the warning or alert is displayed on the dashboard. However, indirect TPMS sensors work differently. Unlike direct TPMS sensors, indirect ones depend on wheel speed sensors instead of pressure sensors.

That said, these sensors also utilize the data and information from the car\’s anti-lock braking system (ABS). Moreover, low tire pressure changes the shape and affects the wheel speed. Therefore, indirect TPMS sensors detect any change in the wheel speed and alert the driver instantly.

Since indirect TPMS sensors don’t rely on direct calculation, they aren’t as accurate as the direct TPMS sensor.

Is An Indirect TPMS Sensor Better Or Direct?
With the improvements in technology, auto manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Honda are bringing the indirect TPMS sensor back to the market. However, the indirect TPMS sensors still rely on the other sensor which may affect their accuracy.

Compared to indirect TPMS sensors, most automotive manufacturers use direct TPMS sensors for better and more accurate results. Since indirect TPMS sensors rely on the wheel speed, there will still be a risk that motorists will drive the car with underinflated tires.

For that reason, a direct TPMS sensor is better as they use pressure sensors to directly measure if the tires are properly inflated. That said, both TPMS sensors are available at Porcsi- one of the leading TPMS suppliers. You can choose to buy any type of quality TPMs sensor and always ensure your safety.