Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Can Saves Lives
Most people ignore their tires, yet tires are undoubtedly a critical safety component on a vehicle. Where the rubber meets the road affects traction, handling, steering, stability and braking. Because of this, a sudden tire failure can have serious consequences, especially if it occurs when operating at high speeds.
- Nearly 250,000 accidents occur in the United States per year due to low tire pressure.
- About 75 percent of roadside flats are preceded by a slow leak or under inflation.
- According to a recent survey, America could reduce its fuel consumption by 10 percent and save a collective $2 billion a year by keeping tires properly inflated.
- NHTSA estimates that tire pressure monitoring systems could prevent as many as 79 deaths and 10,365 injuries each year in the United States.
What is the Effect of Under-Inflation?
Every year, it is estimated that 23,000 accidents and 535 fatal accidents involve blowouts or flat tires. Maintaining proper tire air pressure is not only a major safety concern, but it can also affect the handling and performance of your vehicle.
Why Is It More Expensive and Time-Consuming to Have Tires Serviced Rather Than Rotated?
Technicians use special diagnostic tools to test and recalibrate sensors any time a tire is moved from one location on the vehicle to another. A sensor must be tested to make sure it is functioning correctly and must be reprogrammed whenever tires are moved from one position to another during rotation. OEMs recommend a sensor service kit be installed every time a tire is serviced. These kits include replacement parts to properly service the sensor. Sensors are powered by a battery that usually has a life of 6 to 8 years. The sensor has to be replaced when the battery fails because the batteries are not replaceable.