TPMS and Regular Tire Pressure Checks

The tire pressure monitoring system is designed to monitor pressure and temperature inside a tire and alerts drivers when pressures fall below a certain level, usually 20%-25% below factory specifications. 

TPMS was introduced to help improve road safety and reduce carbon emissions. However, TPMS does NOT serve as an alternative to regular tire checks. 

Dave Crinson, the head of Group Michelin's England fleet warns drivers to not be complacent with tire pressure readouts following the introduction of the tire pressure monitoring system. "Although TPMS is an excellent tool, there is a possibility it could encourage drivers to act only when the alarm is raised and not to carry out basic checks regularly, which are so important."

"TPMS will only detect a reduction in tire pressure, so it's essential that drivers continue to regularly check tread depths and look for any damage, including penetrating objects such as nails and screws." 

We recommend that you check your tire pressure at least once a month and before taking your vehicle on long journeys. 

Data obtained from Michelin's "Fill Up With Air" events indicate that drivers are neglecting  or not routinely checking their tires for damage or low tire pressure. 

In 2012, tests on 3,722 vehicles revealed that 30% of drivers had tire pressures classified as "dangerous" - between 8-14 PSI under-inflated. 9% of pressures were classified as "very dangerous" - more than 14 PSI below vehicle's recommended values. Only 28% of tested vehicles were found to have tire pressures that were at manufacturer specifications.