What is the TPMS in My Hyundai and How Does it Work?
Hyundai has a longstanding commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. These elements are all exemplified in the TPMS system that comes standard on Hyundai vehicles. In keeping with Hyundai’s unfailingly high standards and forward-thinking philosophy, the latest Hyundai models even pair their TPMS with other informative features that will help drivers optimize efficiency and stay ahead of maintenance needs.
Your TPMS can let you know exactly when you need to schedule service for your tires. Ensure optimal safety, reliability, and fuel efficiency everywhere you go with regular visits to our dealership. We can handle all your maintenance and tire needs promptly and affordably so you’re back on the road in no time.
What Does TPMS Mean?
Macro of the Aluminum rim wheel by Mason Jones is licensed with Unsplash License
TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The TREAD Act mandates that all vehicles built after September 1, 2007, with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less must have a TPMS system. The TPMS system continually monitors the air pressure in your tires in one of two ways, outlined below. If the system detects low air pressure, it will alert you so you can address the issue promptly.
Before TPMS systems, the only way to check your tire’s air pressure was to bend down beside each tire and read the pressure with a manual gauge one tire at a time. This task was easy to overlook, which undoubtedly resulted in a lot of drivers cruising on poorly inflated tires.
Tire inflation is important because it impacts your:
- Vehicle Performance: Underinflated tires make your vehicle less responsive and more difficult to handle.
- Tire Lifespan: Underinflation causes the tire walls to flex and generate heat which can result in excess wear, damage, and blowouts. Overinflated tires wear more quickly in the center, which may lead to more frequent replacements.
- Fuel Economy: You can improve gas mileage by as much as 3% by properly inflating your tires.
How Does the TPMS System Work?
TMPS systems are either direct or indirect. Indirect TPMS uses the vehicle’s wheel speed sensors to measure the rate of rotation for each tire. If the tire spins faster than expected, the system determines that it’s probably underinflated and alerts the driver. Unfortunately, an indirect TPMS system may deliver inaccurate readings if you use a tire that’s larger or smaller than the tires that originally came on your vehicle. An indirect TPMS system must be reset after you inflate your tires or receive any kind of tire maintenance.
A direct TPMS system features small electric sensors in each wheel of the vehicle that monitor air pressure and feed data back to the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU). Direct TPMS systems are more accurate because they take readings from inside the tire. Direct TPMS systems usually reset themselves.
Direct TPMS systems are typically considered preferable. You’ll find a direct TPMS in many Hyundai vehicles including the Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata, and Tucson. The latest Hyundai vehicles even pair the TPMS with other features. The 2024 Hyundai Tucson includes an individual tire indicator with its TPMS so you’ll know exactly where the problem is. The 2024 IONIQ 5 has an individual tire indicator as well as a tire fill complete alert to let you know when your tire is at optimal inflation.
How To Reset the TPMS System
You can resent an indirect TPMS system by pressing the TPMS reset button. This is usually located beneath the steering wheel, but your owner’s manual can give you more details on its exact location.
If you have a direct TPMS system, you shouldn’t have to reset your TPMS light after adjusting your tire inflation. The TPMS light should turn off within about 10 minutes of traveling 50 mph or more. If the light doesn’t turn off on its own, you can reset the system manually. To do so:
- Turn off the vehicle.
- Turn the key to the “On” position but don’t start the vehicle.
- Hold the TPMS reset button until the TPMS light blinks three times.
It may take another 20 minutes of driving for the light to fully reset after this procedure. If the light stays on, you can attempt a full system reset by inflating your tires to about 3 psi over what’s recommended and then deflating them completely. When you reinflate the tires again, the TPMS should reset.
If you’re still having trouble with the TPMS warning light on your vehicle, you can bring it to our service center at Allen Turner Hyundai for an expert diagnosis and prompt solution.
Recommended Maintenance To Keep Your TPMS Working
In most Hyundai vehicles, the TPMS system will require little to no maintenance. Most modern systems reset automatically after you adjust inflation. When you install new tires or have your tires rotated, your Hyundai service center technician may need to resynchronize the system. In most cases, keeping up with routine tire maintenance will also ensure that your TPMS system is in great shape.
To keep your tires in prime condition, you should schedule a tire rotation, tire balance, and wheel alignment every 7,000 miles. Purchase new tires any time the tread is less than 2/32-inch or after six to 10 years regardless of the tread.
If your TPMS warning light illuminates but your tires are all inflated properly, you may have a bug in the system. In this case, you should bring your Hyundai to our service center for a professional inspection. We can help you reset the TPMS system or replace it completely if needed so you’re always getting accurate, up-to-date information on your tires.
Expert Advice and Service for Your Hyundai
Whether you need to reset your TPMS system or you’re due for routine tire maintenance, our team at Allen Turner Hyundai can help. Our service center near Mobile, AL can handle all your scheduled maintenance needs. We also maintain a fully stocked tire center with all the top brands. You can even get road hazard coverage on select replacement tires. Schedule your next appointment now and stay ahead of your car care needs.
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