TPMS Sensors and Tires: Signs It’s Time to Replace

Your tires and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are crucial in vehicle safety and performance. Regularly inspecting your tires and monitoring TPMS Sensors can alert you whether you need new Tires or TPMS Sensors. For example, tires display worn or uneven tread, and TPMS sensors malfunction or lose battery power. This blog reviews additional signs it’s time to replace tires and TPMS sensors.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Tires

• Worn Tread: The condition of your tire tread is a primary indicator of tire wear. The tread depth should meet legal requirements and be sufficient for maintaining traction on wet and slippery surfaces. If the tread depth is near or below 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm), it’s time to replace your tires. You can use a tread depth gauge or the “penny test” to assess the tread wear.
• Uneven Tread Wear: Uneven tire wear can indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or improper tire inflation. If you notice irregular wear patterns, such as cupping or bald spots, it’s important to have your tires inspected by a professional and replaced if necessary.
• Cracks, Bulges, and Blisters: Inspect your tires regularly for any visible damage, such as cracks, bulges, or blisters. These signs indicate internal damage or weakened structural integrity, which can lead to tire failure. If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to replace your tires.
• Age and Mileage: Tires have a limited lifespan,  even if the tread depth and condition appear sound. It’s best to replace tires every 6 to 10 years, regardless of mileage. Rubber deteriorates over time, leading to reduced traction and safety. Check the manufacturing date on your tires’ sidewalls to determine their age.
• Vibration or Shaking: If you experience prolonged vibrations or shaking while driving, it could be a sign of tire-related issues. Out-of-balance tires, uneven wear, or damaged components can cause these symptoms. Have your tires inspected, and if necessary, replace them to restore a smooth and safe ride.
• Frequent Flats or Punctures: If you’re experiencing frequent punctures, flats, or tire damage that a technician can no longer repair, it is time to replace your tires. Repeated tire failures can compromise your safety and indicate that the tires have reached the end of their lifespan.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your TPMS Sensors

• Repeated Sensor Malfunction: If your TPMS warning light frequently illuminates, even after confirming that your tire pressure is correct, it could indicate a faulty or failing TPMS sensor. In such cases, it’s best to have the sensors inspected and replaced if necessary.
• No TPMS Signal: If your TPMS warning light fails to come on, it could indicate a complete sensor failure. With a functioning TPMS, you will receive crucial tire pressure warnings that help ensure your safety on the road. In this case, immediate sensor replacement is necessary.
• Battery Life: TPMS sensors have internal batteries that eventually wear out. Most sensor batteries have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years. If your vehicle has sensors approaching or exceeding their lifespan, it’s wise to replace them to avoid potential sensor failures.
• New Tire Installation: The auto owner’s manual usually recommends replacing the TPMS sensors when installing new tires. Sensor removal can be challenging and may damage the sensors in the process. Additionally, older sensors may have reduced battery life, making it cost-effective and convenient to replace them during the tire replacement process.

Downside of Delayed Replacement

Tires and TPMS sensors in good condition provide greater safety, vehicle performance, and handling. However, delaying tire and sensor replacements can lead to the following problems.

• Compromised traction and reduced grip, particularly in wet or slippery conditions
• Increased risk of hydroplaning and loss of control
• Reduced fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance
• Higher likelihood of tire blowouts or failures on the road
• Inaccurate tire pressure readings potentially mask dangerous under or over inflation

Avoid these risks by regularly inspecting your tires and monitoring your TPMS, and have a certified technician repair or replace them as needed. 

Best Auto A/C Repair in Kirkland, WA

From diagnosis to repair, Fisher’s Auto Service, Inc. provides the highest standard of service. If you suspect you have a problem with your auto’s Tires or Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), trust us to take care of the problem fast, at a price you can afford. 

Make An Appointment for TPMS Sensors Inspection

We can’t wait to hear from you. Let our certified technicians get your vehicle running great again. Call us at (425) 441-3327 or visit our website to schedule an  TPMS Sensors Inspection today!