In a nutshell, the Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) provides you with a warning for low tire pressure on all four tires, and sometimes the spare tire as well. The TPMS accurately measures the temperature and pressure in the tires and sends it to a monitor sensor or receiver.
If something is amiss, a light will illuminate on the dashboard of your Toyota vehicle.
If you are the proud owner of a Toyota vehicle and find yourself having issues with the Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System work, come talk to us at Toy Car Care. We can take care of all repairs for this important feature and make sure you get plenty of proper warning about your vehicle’s tires.
Toyota vehicles (dating from 2004-2015) equipped with TPMS:
- 4 Runner
- Avalon
- Camry
- Corolla
- FJ Cruiser
- Highlander & Highlander HV
- Land Cruiser
- Matrix
- Prius
- RAV4
- Sequoia
- Sienna
- Solara
- Tacoma & Tundra
- Venza
- Yaris
There are two systems within this feature. A Direct Method and an Indirect Method.
Direct Method
Here the system detects absolute air pressure and sends data to the transmitter. Pressure sensors measure the air within each wheel, and there is no need to reset after inflation or rotation of tires.
Each sensor has a unique serial number which correlates to each tire, letting you know which tire is low. This data is sent wirelessly to your dashboard and illuminates as well. This feature is pricier, but also more accurate. The battery lasts about ten years, and if you opt for this feature, be sure to have an experienced and licensed technician perform the installation.
Indirect Method
Here the system detects apparent air pressure and the differences between tire pressure. It measures how fast the tires are rotating and sends a signal if something is amiss.
These wheel speed sensors also work with the anti-lock braking system. You must reset after every tire rotation or inflation, and it may be inaccurate if the tires are a different size.
So how will you know if your tire pressure is low?
You will see an indicator light illuminate on your dashboard instrument panel. It is yellow and in the shape of a horseshoe with an exclamation mark in the middle. If you do see this light, head to Toy Car Care to check your tires immediately and avoid potential accidents.
Proper air tire pressure, believe it or not, can save you 3.3 percent fuel consumption, according to the Department of Energy. Improper inflation puts unnecessary wear and tear on your tires, as well as affecting the tread and performance.
Toy Car Care knows how important it is to do a visual check on your vehicle tires daily, especially if you are planning a long road trip, and with this technology, you now have even more backup. Now that you know how the Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System works, you can be even safer and confident while experiencing the joy of the ride.