Do I have to have tire pressure sensors?
Posted by pleasedontthankyou@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 232 comments
*please don’t tell me to do it myself from YouTube. I am a single mom and I am working 2 full time jobs right now. I’m tired.
I just got new tires back in March and the guys there told me I needed new tire pressure sensor things because all four are shot to shit. I declined setting up an appointment.
I don’t have the money to have all of them replaced. It’s not even on my list of top 7 priorities at this point. But if it’s really something i SHOULD have in working order, I’ll figure out a way to do it. I know how to go to Kwik Trip and check my tires. And I know how to use one of the pen tire gauges that’s in my glove box (idk if that’s useful anymore). If this is something that a person with a good understanding of cars can do outside of a shop is that ok to do? I don’t mind paying “a guy” to do it, if that’s a reasonable option. Thank you for any answers.
Forward-Rice3280@reddit
You don’t need them, the light on your dash that says your tire pressure is low will just stay on. You can’t replace them yourself as they go inside the tires. Just check your pressure at the gas station occasionally, you’ll be good.
NewReleaseDVD@reddit
This is haven't had working Tpms in like a decade. Are there any states that would fail safety inspection for it? Thats the only reason I could think to get them fixed.
nightmareFluffy@reddit
Same here. Are TPMs inherently flawed? I'm not an automotive engineer, but it seems like crappy technology that only works during the warranty period, and maybe a few years after that if you're lucky. By having a non-replaceable battery, TPMs are literally designed to fail. It seems like a ploy to get some money in service and parts.
tidyshark12@reddit
Battery powered, single use unit. Designed to fail from the ground up
TheScrote1@reddit
I’ve always had them last the life of the tires but if TPMS is important to you I really think you have to replace them every time you do your tires, unless you are someone that drives a ton
nightmareFluffy@reddit
TPMs aren't important to me because I can check the pressure myself. It's just annoying having that perpetual warning in the dashboard.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
What car are you driving that the sensors are 1k?
Tigerzombie@reddit
I was quoted $800 to replace all the sensors on my Toyota Highlander. Another place quoted $600. Now the light will stay on for a few days and then turn off. I keep a tire pump in the car and check the pressure more frequently.
Tricky-Analysis6556@reddit
They are all grossly overpriced by dealers. I just had the whole set replaced and it was about $1000 for a chevy truck. About $750 for 2von a toyota. Probably smarter to do them at a tire shop cause the parts are less than $100 each.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
They saw you coming. At that price I would not have replaced them. You can buy the aftermarket ones with the tool for a lot less on Amazon.
Tricky-Analysis6556@reddit
I don't like lights on my dash and I can't mount or balance a tire. Though I imagine if you do it right, you wouldn't need to re-balance.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
You only need to break the outside bead to replace a sensor and no balancing required.
Tricky-Analysis6556@reddit
Yeah I figured that. Not something I want to do. Still needs to be mated to the computer.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
It depends on the vehicle. My fusion self learns after a short trip. Also most GM vehicles can be programmed without a tool. Like I said you can get the tool and sensors for a lot cheaper than OEM from a dealer.
Tricky-Analysis6556@reddit
Just like anything else! Totota quoted me $1200 for rotors and pads and that was pre covid!
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
Was that all 4 rotors and pads? If so that's about right from a dealership.
IWontCommentAtAll@reddit
The parts are less than $100 for all 4, the last time I bought them this spring.
IWontCommentAtAll@reddit
$1000?! WTF are you driving? A Bugatti?
I bought a set for my Buick off Amazon for $68, and had my independent mechanic install them during a winter summer tire swap for $100 more.
This is CAD, too, BTW.
Anybody charging $1000 is almost as insane as the people who'd pay that much to get them done.
supern8ural@reddit
Next time you get new tires, check with Tire Rack, they sell sensors for my BMW that are significantly cheaper than from the dealer. They've actually lasted longer than the originals as well.
TheScrote1@reddit
I’m used to the light at this point.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
You do not have to replace them every time you change your tires.
TheScrote1@reddit
In my experience the sensors tend to go out about half way through the second set of tires you run on them. I only put like 10k a year on my cars though. So the sensors seem to fail about year 7 or 8 for me.
Tricky-Analysis6556@reddit
Seems about right. Mine went out at 60k.
gettin-hot-in-here@reddit
in my older car, the original TPMS sensors were good until about 10-11 years. by then, the car had \~200k miles on it. I never replaced them.
TheScrote1@reddit
Nice
drfishdaddy@reddit
TPMS is a result of the Firestone/explorer rollover and subsequent lawsuit/recall issues in the early 2000s.
Rapid air loss from tires, aka blowout, is the single highest mechanically caused loss.
Tires are important
Willing-Cucumber-595@reddit
This, plus the only reason we "have to" have them is bc DOT had to step into a fight between Ford and Firestone when neither wanted to accept the consequences of not talking with one another when determining correct inflation pressures. Instead, both pointed the finger at the vehicle owners instead of acknowledging engineering errors.
timmmarkIII@reddit
Are you talking about Ford/Firestone problem from the 70s Mustang II or the 80s Explorer?
I don't think Ford has used Firestone tires in quite awhile. A link would be helpful.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
The Ford explorer didn't come out until 1990/1991.
slovbell@reddit
The ford “Exploder”
Beginning_Ad8663@reddit
They were called “ exploders “ because the intake manifold would leak water into the back cylinders causing a hydro lock and blow up the motor.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
I've owned two in my lifetime and loved both of them. I wish I still had my 99 with the v-8
Azraelrs@reddit
My 96 was a beast. The good ole Exploder, black with gray leather.
Ford really needed to make more key variants back in the day though. I jumped in a black exploder near June now paying attention. Unlocked the door, started it up, and then noticed my sunglasses weren't where I left them, and then that I didn't even have sunglasses in my car. Then I looked around and saw my car a few places away. Got out, locked the door, and went to my car.
My mom had this same issue at a bar with her Escort. Someone walked out, got in her car and started it up. Realized that he didn't drive a stick and came back in and told her what happened. She went out, watched him do it again. Took her key out of her purse and unlocked and started his car.
Quite the coincidence for this to happen twice in such a relatively small geographical area.
slovbell@reddit
I never owned one, I guess I wasn’t a fan of the styling and size. They seemed to have a high center of gravity which caused some of the issues if you did not check tire pressures
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
Are you referring to the big bad that was happening with the Firestone tires how ever long ago? I think was just starting high school then. One side of my family was Ford and the other side was Chevy. Things were tense.
ObviousAlias7@reddit
There are passive TPMS systems that work off measuring tire rotation. When one wheel gets low, the difference in wheel rotation over a given straight stretch of road triggers the TPMS light to go on.
The biggest complaint about that system? "I can't see what pressures my tires are at". So manufacturers go to the direct measurement system. Unfortunately the batteries only last 5-7 years or so...if you are lucky.
HonestStation8961@reddit
They are hard to not break if a tire goes flat or when changing tires etc. They are just a dummy savor money grab for those who would drive on a flat until someone tells them they have a flat. Anyone who takes care of their vehicle doesn't need them.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
Tpms is not inherently flawed. They are a pretty reliable technology. Most sensors will last 10-15 years or more. Most of the time they are damaged by techs that don't change tires properly. And some sensors you can change the batteries. Some cars don't even have sensors. They use the wheel speed sensors to determine if the air pressure is low.
nightmareFluffy@reddit
My experience is limited to my car, and I haven't been able to replace batteries on them or get them past 10 years. I'm sure there's some better tech out there now, my car was from 2007. But when having this kind of experience with TPMs, it's natural to write off the technology entirely.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
I work on cars for a living. My experience is most last 10-15 years. Also probably 80% or more I have replaced is from them being physically damaged. Either from a flat tire or damaged while mounting tires. Just your experience you shouldn't write off the technology.
supern8ural@reddit
I've often wondered why they don't use rechargeable batteries and a little piezo thing like a Seiko Kinetic watch, but here we are.
depending on the vehicle though, I've heard of them lasting between 4 and 10 years. after that yeah they're done.
nightmareFluffy@reddit
It would be nice to have rechargeable batteries. But they don't even need to use rechargable batteries if they need to be replaced every 4-10 years; having the option to replace the batteries in any way would be preferable to replacing the whole thing.
supern8ural@reddit
well they're cheap enough that replacing the part is not onerously expensive, even for my BMW I can get aftermarket ones from Tire Rack inexpensively. The problem is having to break the bead on each tire to physically replace them, and I'm not sure how you'd make the batteries replaceable without doing that.
gettin-hot-in-here@reddit
i suppose the batteries could be placed on the outside (valve stem) but it doesn't seem like such a good idea.
one could certainly make them easy to replace when the tires are off the rim.
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
They usually last 10-15 years or more. Most of the time it's the tire tech that breaks them when changing tires.
jamiesond1@reddit
Newer Audis don’t come with TPMS sensors at all. My 2021 didn’t have them. Can’t fail something that doesn’t exist
AlwaysBagHolding@reddit
Using the wheel speed sensors to detect variance in diameter is way nicer to live with long term than sensors in the tire.
MusicAccomplished724@reddit
That's what my Accord does.
Sore_Wa_Himitsu_Desu@reddit
Here in Tennessee the rule was any warning lights = failed inspection. Fortunately we did away with the whole inspection mess a few years ago.
DonNadie2468@reddit
Yes, the inspection thing would be my only question. I seem to recall that inspectors don't generally like to see warning lights on the dashboard.
mamaknits@reddit
take out the lightbulb for that one 😆
intrepodor@reddit
Put black tape over warnings
SensitiveAdagio3012@reddit
That was the red green vcr flashing clock fix.
WrenchKing555@reddit
Probably not considering they weren't mandated for safety concerns. They are required for emissions.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
Didn’t fail me for emissions. I was worried about that as well.
Accurate_Summer_1761@reddit
Then your clear. Also do yourself a favor and scrap the pen version of the air pressure checker they make very nice ones now that are a gauge. Much better to use
bcsublime@reddit
You’re. Andthe pen version of “air pressure checker” is a tire gauge.
Accurate_Summer_1761@reddit
Cool cool cool my description was clearly enough....your're
WrenchKing555@reddit
Sorry I didn't mean to imply they are required to pass emissions testing. I meant they are required to have them from the factory.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I like to know all sorts of things. Thanks for that info!
S7alker@reddit
My moms car in my state failed safety check because the tpms batteries were dead. You can thank ford and firestone fiasco for that and the abysmal mpg of land yachts where they decided many good things would be fixed with these sensors since it showed how bad customers are with their vehicles and daily maintenance checks.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I try hard to stay on top of things. I don’t do a full PMCS every day, but i do have to prioritize my budget. So I have reminders set to follow up on things. I really can’t afford to be caught off guard.
chrispina98@reddit
They wouldn't do my emissions test in Colorado with my tpms light on (or any warning lights on the dash). I had to get the sensor replaced before I could go back to get tested.
PlaysWithSquirrels7@reddit
Doesn't fail in Louisiana
Evening-Tomatillo-47@reddit
Going by those "customer states" videos having no brakes, suspension or attached wheels won't fail a safety inspection!
NewReleaseDVD@reddit
Not all states have them 🤣
Federal-Membership-1@reddit
My state checks emissions. That's it.
Forward-Rice3280@reddit
Doesn’t fail in PA
Top_Substance9093@reddit
doesn't fail in VA. i also haven't had working TPMS in years and years. just visually inspect your tires every once in a while (and/or just when you get into/out of the car) to make sure nothing looks like a pancake and you're fine
SeaPersonality445@reddit
Except its an MOT failure if the light is on.
Forward-Rice3280@reddit
I don’t think it’s a fail anywhere here in the colonies
SeaPersonality445@reddit
I missed that bit!
AlwaysBagHolding@reddit
If you're really worried about the light, you can throw 4 new sensors in a capped PVC pipe in the trunk and charge it to 35 psi.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
You are the second person to say that!! The first person, I thought was just fucking with me. Lol. I do love problem solving!
evo-1999@reddit
Yep. That stupid light has been on in my dash for like 3 years.
MarsRocks97@reddit
Agreed. However op mentioned she is using pen style gauge and these are highly susceptible to failing or providing inaccurate readings. I recommend getting a dial type pressure gauge.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I do have one as a just in case, my dad made me put one in there 20+ years ago, so I always just have them. I try to use the ones at gas stations though, they seem like a safer bet.
supern8ural@reddit
this. For real peace of mind, get a better tire pressure gauge and get in the habit of checking them weekly. I have this one from Joe's Racing and it is spot on with my inflator.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00404WDUC
"Joes Racing 32307 (0-60) PSI Tire Pressure Gauge"
If you check it yourself regularly and also visually watch for deflated looking tires you can essentially go indefinitely without working TPMS.
One exception to that would be if you have run flats. They are the reason for TPMS in the first place, because you could have a 0 pressure tire but the car might not drive differently enough to alert the driver, and they will only drive for a limited distance with no pressure before the tire is damaged.
If you have regular old tires, you really don't need TPMS if you have a good gauge and awareness of your car.
good luck
seajayacas@reddit
That is how we used to do it before tire pressure sensors became in wide use.
mxracer888@reddit
Take the sensors, toss them in a big enough section of PVC pipe to hold them all. Cap that pipe off, install a valve stem in one of the caps, pressurize to 35 psi and toss it in your trunk or under the seat or whatever. Light will be off and no sensors in the tires
xTheGame69@reddit
It doesn't say that it's low it just says tire pressure sensor which there isn't one to check so mission accomplished
Joe_B_Likes_Tacos@reddit
Michelin installed the first pneumatic tire on a automobile in 1895. TPMS sensors were not required until 1997 model year. People got by for over 100 years without tpms.
castlenutjob@reddit
07, least in the US, but they're kind of useless if you actually pay attention to your car.
Joe_B_Likes_Tacos@reddit
You're right. Not sure how I got that confused. It really works out to the 08 model year.
nadanutcase@reddit
I agree however I'd recommend that she pitch the old pencil type pressure gauge and get a decent digital one. Not only are they easier to read they're notoriously known for being inaccurate.
Forward-Rice3280@reddit
You can smoke crack out of a pencil gauge. Good luck smoking crack out of a digital!
sleightmelody@reddit
I remember finding one of those in my mom's car at like 12 and thinking she was smoking crack LOL
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
You are not wrong! Technology is not always better. 🤗
SurlyJohn009@reddit
Or at least a nice analog round one with a flexible hose. Easier to use and accurate.
The pencil ones are trash for accuracy, agreed.
SeniorHovercraft1817@reddit
Just check your tire pressures occasionally and you’ll be fine.
Maecyte@reddit
Keep a pump in the trunk
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
Like a shot gun?!? I’m kidding!!! Yes I think I will maybe invest in a smaller compressor thing!
upsidedown-funnel@reddit
There is one made by Fantik that’s about $80. We have two. One for the rv to fill and check tires before every trip, and another for the house. It’s so easy to use. You screw it onto your value stem and turn it on. It will tell you the current pressure and the pressure as it gains. It’s really convenient especially if you’re prone to tires going low. (Les Schwab will fix flats for free btw). Other option You can also pop over to a Costco and use their gauge and filler if you need air. There’s a little cheap tool to check pressure, and is another the size of a pen.
Albert14Pounds@reddit
Bike pumps also work also if you have one already. Car tire pressures are generally lower than bike tire pressures and the valve (schrader type) it's the same as most "normal" bikes. Road bikes with skinny tires use thinner presta valves, but your average bike pump usually will fit shrader or both.
Car tires are just a lot bigger though so it's a lot more pumping. Like 20+ pumps to add a PSI (varies wildly by pump but that's my experience). But it does work and is a little workout.
jrileyy229@reddit
If money is tight, then don't even bother. Just check them once in a while and if you need some air go to a gas station.
If you're constantly adding air then you have another problem
LiverPickle@reddit
Go to a Belle or Discount Tire for free air
Maecyte@reddit
And a sensor in the door pocket
Forward-Rice3280@reddit
Check by your spare just for shits and giggles, when one of my cars got totaled I found a little factory compressor when I was looting it in the junkyard
Federal-Membership-1@reddit
Just test it before you need it. I had one that burned a fuse the first time I needed it. Also, you can get a decent tire pressure gauge for about $5.
FearlessTomatillo911@reddit
You can get combinations of booster packs/inflators. Everyone should have one in an emergency kit
Tricky-Analysis6556@reddit
Yes, I did it myself with better parts for $400.
Onikara-Star@reddit
Personally, I like them because the roads are utter crap in this area and I know at a glance that the sound I'm hearing is not a tire problem.
EmperorGeek@reddit
I don’t have functional pressure sensors in my vans. The tire pressure light stays on all the time. I figure the bulb will eventually burn out if I resist long enough!
hoponbop@reddit
Had a tire place try to tell me legally they had to replace the broken one. I said nevermind and they said well they can't remount the old one either blah blah. Went round about with 3 different people till they made me raise my voice, which takes a lot. " Put the fucking spare on now! I ain't paying for any of this bullshit but I'll give the service guy a tip." Suddenly it wasn't illegal. Left with my TPS light shining brightly and a hand written coupon for an oil change and rotation from the manager.
shtstk@reddit
Disable the tpms light and just check your tire pressure every fill up
Any_Web_1784@reddit
Occasionally check the tires for pressure. But no, i have a few cars that the sensors are dead and doesnt make sense to get a light off my dash
MostlyUseful@reddit
Think about it like this, for decades people drove cars without a sensor telling them to check a tire. You know why? Because people learned how to check their tires all by themselves, as I’m sure you can do.
You totally have this. If you need to watch a video on detailed tire checks, do that. Heck, ask questions here. Just remember this, you don’t need to pay a guy to do this.
Sincerely,
A female that checks 18 tires every day without one single sensor.
Komobu542@reddit
Listen.....you don't need them. If the yellow light is on, screw it. If it's too bright while driving at night, put a small piece of black tape over it. These sensors are for idiots that don't check their tires. If you lose air slowly in a tire, the warning light is nice to let you know, but is not necessary. Just try to make a habit of looking at your tires once in awhile when you get in or out of the car. Learn what they look like at the proper pressure. Nobody had a light 30+ years ago. Depending on the car, the front tires may look more squatted than the rears. As the seasons change and temperatures change, this is when to check pressures with a guage. As weather gets colder, your tires will need more air. As it gets warmer, you may need to bleed some air out. Ideally, checking every month is good, but doing it every 3 months should be the minimum. On a final note, if your yellow light isn't on constantly at all, then the tires boys are trying to rip you off.
Junior_Aspect1530@reddit
My mustangs coincidentally had two TPMS with dead batteries (per the tire store) after picking it up from getting those two tires replaced last summer. They worked fine when I dropped the car off. Don’t care enough to replace them I just keep an eye on em and fill em up with the compressor if needed.
Vegetable_Sample7384@reddit
They are purely a convenience thing. We all used to keep a tire pressure gauge in the glovebox.
Material-Job-1928@reddit
If you're in an accident, and insurance knows they didn't work they will use that to try and weasel out of paying.
Beyond that, check the pressures once a week and ride on.
teleskier97@reddit
No issue passing inspection in NY either, they haven’t worked on my winter beater in years. I check them once a week…if I remember… with a good old tire pressure gauge you can buy at any auto parts store for a few bucks
brainfr33z3@reddit
It’s a nice to have, not a requirement. You will be just fine without the sensors. I didn’t put sensors in my winter wheels because I didn’t want to spend the money, I did however put them in my wife’s winter wheels because she doesn’t like the light on the dash.
HRDBMW@reddit
Humanity has lasted thousands of years building wheels without tire pressure sensors.
superduperduke1@reddit
buy the compressor of your liking. I am currently using the attached one. Should be able to check you tire pressure with no issue. Super easy to use
on the side of your driving seat there should be a sticker telling you how much pressure your tires need (PSI). for front and rear tires (and the spare tire too).
https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Compressor-Portable-Inflator-Light/dp/B07YC12FW1/ref=sr_1_8?crid=2EXLFQMSTTZMU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.nI4pZB-64mUYs7DSFAtvXJrQtJGf9gGhPyKDvb-Jg3YwzCv8_grjqQnftDeP8ukxAV7kESPB86Ls94Q6_0_8xObetWWERpoUZFSjY16ZdpiH3HVnxdjzAlyHaarJfX-73bE1Q4A8jiVcIASok5yDIvtk0EU7MVKXxgFWZK8sEnhnAdCQ730Ag0j312_cXlODN8qNPuIcuRlbjoEKI1CG3VhCS0pZFZuQu0wUn8ELLM0.AqcEj9R48ZjbAQPhFG3PAU7XT_C2qMxmQo1O3q2B0s0&dib_tag=se&keywords=tire%2Bpump&qid=1778698381&sprefix=tire%2Bpump%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-8&th=1
Jacktheforkie@reddit
No unless it’s a legal requirement to pass inspection, millions of older vehicles are on the road without such devices
EODblake@reddit
I grew up poor. Now that I can afford better it doesn't feel right driving around without at least one dash light on. TPMS is probably the least concerning after the gas light.
Huckleberry4Life@reddit
I'd have trouble believing all 4 failed.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I only had a problem with one of them. It would show a __ when it was really cold. Which was a lot because, Wisconsin winter and all that. But then the other 3 just all kinda did the same at once. I don’t really have the time or money in my current situation to do too much digging. But I would have revisited my near future budget if needed.
Huckleberry4Life@reddit
It's not important to the function of the car. Just keep an eye on the tires if you suspect a leak and check the PSI periodically. I'd leave it alone and save the money for priorities.
-klunge-@reddit
Perhaps, but unfortunately she may have no way to know if it’s one or more. But if the car is older and one is dead, the others may not be far behind. The time to change them is when tires are being installed, otherwise you have to pay again for mounting and balancing just to install the sensors
RealSignificance8877@reddit
Mine so old it doesn’t have it.
SeminoleVictory@reddit
It's a safety thing
If you're transporting your kid(s) in that car, you probably want them
2006CrownVictoriaP71@reddit
Kids were transported in cars without TPMS for 90 years. I think they’ll be alright.
SeminoleVictory@reddit
Sure, but advances have been made
Why wouldn't you want to use them?
Crafty-Isopod45@reddit
You don’t need them. The warning light will stay on. You can just manually check the pressure on your tires with a cheap gauge and add air when you need it.
If you do go to replace them you can get them online way cheaper than a dealership will charge. They get programmed to your car to connect and send it data. If you don’t want to install them a tire place can do that pretty cheaply too.
But really, if money is tight just stick to doing it manually and you will be fine. Put a calendar reminder in your phone to check it every few weeks or month so you don’t forget and make a habit to look at your tires when you get all up to the car.
Ok-Ad8998@reddit
No. And the pencil-style pressure readers are sufficient. The key is to check the pressures regularly. The reason cars have those sensors is that most drivers don't check.
Formal-Tradition6792@reddit
IMO, TPMS is important if you have an EV or your tires are foam filled which is often the case with EVs and performance cars. EVs’ tires seem to wear faster than ICE cars but that’s subjective. I think tire wear is closely related to how the driver operates the car. Anyway, TPMS helps the owner manage tire wear. And of course, regular tire rotation.
gettin-hot-in-here@reddit
i learned to drive a few decades ago. at the time, nobody i knew had a tire pressure monitoring system. if you check your pressure regularly, you're fine.
No_Wear295@reddit
First question to ask is whether or not your TPMS system even uses sensors (direct) or not (indirect).
Emotional_Common_527@reddit
Some cars show on dashboard Does yours?
And all the tire stores near me in florida check tires for free
RealFlatworm-@reddit
No we didn't have them for decades and managed to survive
DFLDrew@reddit
Except for the people that didn’t, hence the requirement now
RealFlatworm-@reddit
That dash light is saving countless lives
ahandmadegrin@reddit
Not surviving due to low air pressure in your tires has nothing to do with sensors and everything to do with the Darwin Awards.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
This is the first vehicle I have had with them. That would be why I already know how to check my pressure. I didn’t know if having them already there meant I had to keep up with them.
RealFlatworm-@reddit
Nope you don't need to. It's safety and fuel economy nonsense.
mymycojourney@reddit
Can't do it yourself because you need tire equipment to do it. If you have it done it'll get spendy because you'll have to pay water $50 charge they have per tire these days for a mount and balance, plus whatever labor they tack on to replace and program them. I'd personally let it go until you have to buy new tires and are already going to have the tires off.
I also recommend getting one of those jump pack tire inflators. I have one that has saved me both for needing air in a tire, and having to Jumpstart a vehicle! If you're getting air at the quick stop for a few dollars a pop, it'll pay off the $60-70 for the jump pack. Just make sure you get one with both features. If you have a relatively new battery and non leaking tires it can also be a low priority though.
dustyflash1@reddit
Is it nice to have? Yes Do you need them? No If you dont have them be checking those tires often...
z44212@reddit
Cars have only had tire pressure sensors for a few years. We did fine without them until Firestone made bad tires.
AlwaysBagHolding@reddit
*until Ford decided to recommended under inflating Firestone tires so their truck didn't ride like shit.
MountainFace2774@reddit
Don't need them. It'll just cause minor annoyances like the tire pressure light being on all the time. Some vehicles might limit top speed or remove some options.
Our 2010 CR-V, for example, will not let you turn the traction control off if the TPMS light is on. Only really a problem if you're ever in deep snow and need to spin the tires a bit, but still... annoying.
And as others have already said, this isn't something most DIYers can do. You have to take the tire off (or at least, break the bead) to change them and then you'll need a tool to program the new sensors to the car.
AlwaysBagHolding@reddit
A lot of cars you can kill the traction control by pulling the ABS fuse, if you're ever in a bind and need to disable it.
Icy_Nose_2651@reddit
tire pressure sensors are totally unnecessay, I would’t spend ten cents to replace them
AlwaysBagHolding@reddit
I mount my own tires and I don't even bother.
malsell@reddit
TPM sensors are one of the most useless things manufacturers started including on vehicles. Don't get me wrong, when they work they can be a good "canary in a coal mine", but wouldn't rely on them for accuracy. You can get a dirt cheap tire pressure gauge that is going to be more accurate and less prone to failure. Heck the $2+ slime ones at AutoZone are good enough.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I just looked that up. Not the canary part but the pressure gauge. I’m not sure what part I thought was going to be slime, but I see that is the brand.
NoPatience7817@reddit
Not required to drive the car, but it’s a nice extra safety feature to have.
I recommend you call a few local shops for prices. Sam’s and Costco are $40 to $50 per wheel.
Also if you are short on cash, contact your local high school. If they have an auto shop, they typically only charge for parts and the labor is free.
Shooshplz@reddit
Get a little psi checker tool. Very cheap. Check the air pressure in each tire when the tires are cold (like in the morning or something when you haven't been driving on them) and you can buy a cheap little air compressor that you can air up your tires with. Those sensors are called TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) and its not necessary its just a nice feature. The reason you want to check psi and air up tires when they are cold is because when they are hot they will show a higher psi because the air in them is denser. If you look in your drivers door at the sticker is says the correct air pressure for your tires, some cars have a different pressure for the fronts and rears and some it all the same. It doesn't really matter that much as long as there is enough air (unless you are like a performance driver or whatever, but i assume you are not) like if your door sticker says 33 psi it wouldn't hurt anything to just put them to 35 if you didn't wanna have to check your tires as often. This was a lot of unnecessary info but shit, you might have wanted to learn something. Basically just check psi/add air when the tires haven't been driven on for a while and you're good. Im sure harbor freight has a small and affordable air compressor. You could always just go to a gas station but then your tires are hot and you might overinflate them. Even if you are short on a cash a compressor is a worthwile purchase imo. You can keep it in your car so if your pressure is ever low you can just air them up.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I always want to learn something. I am autistic. I do well remembering, when I know the why of things. I will 💯 use all of the info you gave me at some point. Thank you for that!!
Shooshplz@reddit
For sure. You can learn anything about cars from youtube, if your ever curious dont be afraid to try and learn. For a lot of my life i was intimidated by knowledge, but knowing stuff is cool and it makes you feel smart and feeling smart is also cool. If you ever have questions you can dm me
Signal-Confusion-976@reddit
For a hundred years cars didn't have them. Not they are not a nessesity but they are convenient to have. Just keep an eye on your tires. Also were they working when you got your new tires? If so the shop may have damaged them when installing your tires.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
No they were not working. I should have said something to them when I got my new tires but I was driving on a prayer by that point and I really had to save up to get the tires. This sub has been a very informative experience for me!
loggywd@reddit
You are tired of these tires.
Unfair_You_1769@reddit
I just had one replaced a few weeks ago. It cost around $100. I got tired of seeing the warning light every time I drove.
howie2092@reddit
Tire shop should have installed new sensors when they replaced the tires.
If I were you, I would ignore the dash lamp, check pressure with your pen gauge every few months, and have the tire shop install new sensors when you have the next set of tires installed. Discount or Walmart or any tire seller can handle this.
If it really bugs you and you want to save $$, order some sensors online. Take those sensors to an independent tire shop (in the bad part of town where there are a lot of tire shops) and ask them to install and program the new sensors. This costs about $100 but it's a hassle to find the right sensors and a friendly tire shop.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
Lmaooo that whole last bit sounds like a set up!
Equana@reddit
Ignore the sensor warnings and check your tire pressure every other month.
We drove cars for 130 years before these were mandated and you can live without them.
MostlyBrine@reddit
The TPMS sensor will trigger the dash light at 28 psi. It is a safety feature not something that makes sure your tires are properly inflated. Most of the vehicles require 32 psi or more. What you need is a tire pressure gauge and to check the tire pressure at least once a week, before starting to drive. Takes 10 seconds per tire. The correct pressure is written on a label inside de driver door well. Especially after having new tires installed, you must check the pressure daily, for several days, as the new tires might not seat properly and lose slowly air pressure.
googlybunghole@reddit
You check your tire pressure once a week (or more)??
MostlyBrine@reddit
I check my tire pressure and fluid levels once a week and before a longer trip. After tire replacement, I check the pressure every day to look for leaks. All my cars have also sensors for different fluids levels, however when these sensors are becoming active, it is usually inconvenient to do maintenance, especially if you are far from home. The whole “pre drive check” takes five minutes at most. I am of a certain age where I need my peace of mind on the road, and not to worry when I did the last check. It is also a habit that was impressed in me by the instructor in the driver’s ed school.
Consistent_Edge6981@reddit
Youre tired, work 2 full time jobs, and you have time to ask Reddit????
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
It’s the little things that keep me going, and tbf, i am an expert multitasker so i just work both jobs tired! I have been scolded about how I should be learning how to maintain every aspect of my vehicle from shitty people, whomst I have asked IRL because they are “car guys”. I would LOVE to do all of that! I was even a mechanic in the army through the 2000’s! So I am not terrible at it.
MyLastFuckingNerve@reddit
No. You need a little piece of electrical tape to go over the light.
mtrbiknut@reddit
We don't have inspections in my state so mine have been showing low tire pressure for about 3 years now- bad sensors just make the dash light stay on, as others have said.
Just keep the air pressure where it should be with your pencil gauge, look at the decal on the rear door jamb of the drivers door for the correct pressure, not the maximum pressure on the side of the tires.
Tractorguy69@reddit
As long as you are okay with constantly getting the warnings on your dash, and are going to be reasonably diligent with checking your tires, both visually before driving, and regularly with a tire gauge, not having the sensors is a non issue. I have 2 full sets of tires for my car no TPMS sensors at all and I just ignore the warning, no harm, no foul.
ktappe@reddit
Why did you not tell us what car you have? Then we could give you an opinion on whether he was telling you the truth or trying to sell you unnecessary stuff.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
Based on the many answers given with out that as a clarifying follow up, I didn’t find it necessary to add after the fact.
ktappe@reddit
I was just trying to help. If your car is under 10 years old, he's likely lying to you, as those sensors should last \~15 years before being called "shot to shit". But I guess screw me for trying to be useful.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
You sound like my wasband. I made a clear direct statement explaining why I didn’t add it after the fact.
ktappe@reddit
Lol. I think I side with your husband. You don’t listen to anybody, don’t accept help, and are ungrateful.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I meant the whining because I didn’t cater to his feelings when I would say things clearly and directly. I don’t need to manage your feelings. Find a different woman to to spew your fragile ego all over.
LavishnessOk6635@reddit
You can check your tire pressure with a five dollar device that you can buy at any AutoZone or Walmart.
ahandmadegrin@reddit
They've only ever been an expensive thing to fix that haven't provided me any real utility.
SamanthasPlace46@reddit
My TPM Sensor light has been on for a couple years. It's just an annoyance. Everytime you get out or get back back in your car, just observe your tires. Wawa has free air. Note on the tire where your level should be. It's on the tire itself. It will say RPM max -. And keep about that level. And eyeball always for any unusual items on the tires. Also , do you have a Tire Repair shop ? My city has a Dedicated Tire Repair shop. If I get a flat, I go there and spend about 10 min and $25. They don't try to upsell anything.
CockeyedSniper@reddit
The correct PSI (not RPM) for each vehicle is on the door jamb of the driver's door. The PSI number on the tire is the maximum that tire should ever be set at, according to the tire manufacturer. But each vehicle has it's own PSI recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
Place I used to go in the area. Definitely more expensive than $25 bucks. But around me it’s hard to get in any place without a couple weeks wait. Sometimes it’s tricky scheduling out. Thanks for the info!
New_Village_8623@reddit
A piece of black electrical tape turns off the warning light very quickly.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
This a solid plan. Turing up the music wasn’t drowning out that orange glow of anxiety.
Frosty-Analysis1520@reddit
Yes you should have working TPMS sensors, they monitor your tire pressure and that's the thing that directly interfaces with the road. Unless you plan on checking yourself for safety every \~2 weeks (or you just think, hey - might as well risk it with the kids in the car, why not?!) I would spend the $100 on sensors.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
For now I will just make sure to do it when I get gas. Might be a 5 month plan to get done before winter starts.
Mindless_Job3481@reddit
You dont need to have them. Save your money and focus on what matters.
Wemest@reddit
Unfortunately
2013exprinter@reddit
I always suggest to the ladies in my circle to check your tire pressure on the same day you do your monthly breast exam.
you can check them yourself or roll thru your local discount tire or other tire dealer and have them do it
KungPaoKidden@reddit
My understanding and experience so far is that some chain tire stores like Discount, will refuse to change or work on your tires like plug a flat without working TPMS sensors installed. I don't know if that is nationwide or locally owned store or what, but I had one go bad and they refused to sell and install a brand new set of 4 tires from them without a new sensor.
Your mileage may vary. You see what I did there?
WiselyIsAlreadyUsed@reddit
it's bullshit mandated by the gov. batteries are supposed to last 10 years. they are not important.
monstarchinchilla@reddit
put a piece of black electrical tape over the warning in your vehicle and you're good.
Illustrious_Ant_37@reddit
Don't come in a forum and start by telling people what not to tell you. That said don't let these guys at the tire shop bullshit you. The batteries are dead. That's all.
Salavar1@reddit
No. Use the old fashioned method.
wsxdfcvgbnjmlkjafals@reddit
I just bought an inexpensive tire gauge and occasionally check the pressure. Once a month as a routine is fine.
My car is from 1999, I have very few sensors at all let alone tire sensors
Lxiflyby@reddit
Doesn’t fail in NY either.
Downvote_me_dumbass@reddit
No. Cars will run fine without them. All cars previous to around 2010 didn’t have sensors and people just checked their pressure once per month (which you should still do).
Do yourself a favor and use Costco’s tire pressure machines, just double check your door jam for the proper pressure (usually between 32 PSI and 35 PSI).
Ok-Stranger-926@reddit
One of the sensors on one of my vehicles randomly acts up. The tire folks said that they can connect to the computer using an ODB2 scanner and "reset" the one in question.
u_siciliano@reddit
We lived for decades without them, I think if you have the ability to check them from time to time, you are good. IMO. It’s a bit tricky to do outside a shop so dw.
CitronTraining2114@reddit
It will typically cost $60-$90 per tire to install new sensors. Low on my priority list, too.
xTheGame69@reddit
No
I haven't had them in 10 years though some people on Reddit will tell you that I'm a psychopath because I just ignore the orange light on my dashboard
UpbeatTechnology723@reddit
They sell aftermarket tpms bery cheap, just theead the sensors on in place of the valve stem cap. But not necessary at all just do a walk around and kick the tires occasionally
Necessary-Score-4270@reddit
You don't need them, they are a nice to have though. Mainly to get rid of that stupid light on the dash.
If you have access to a tire machine they aren't too hard or expensive to replace. Without a machine you have free access too it becomes really not worth the price.
bradland@reddit
Tire pressure monitoring wasn't even an option just a few years ago. That said, the feature is a blend of safety and convenience.
If a tire starts to leak air while you are driving, the car will drive fine for a bit, but eventually the tire will fail. When that happens, it can be difficult to maintain control of the car. Also, when the tire comes apart it can damage your car's bodywork. Tires are really tough, so they tend to come apart in shreds. If you're driving at high speeds, the tire rubber will flail around in the wheel well and rip apart all the plastic.
That said, everyone lives within a budge of time and money, so if you can't fix this right away, your car isn't going to stop running because of it, and it won't damage anything so long as your tires are properly inflated. What I would do is make it a habit to check your tire pressure when you get gas. Lock the handle on the pump, then walk around your car and check your tire pressures. The correct pressure will be listed on a sticker in the driver's door jamb near the back.
ZaphodG@reddit
In Massachusetts, car inspection doesn’t care about TPMS. Check Engine and ABS have to be off.
sleightmelody@reddit
Definitely not something you need as long as you're checking your tire pressure regularly. Your light indicating that your pressure is low will likely just always stay on.
Turbulent-Matter501@reddit
it sounds like you answered your own question. you don't 'need' this alert if you are checking your tire pressure once a week or more if they look low.
Prudent_Situation_29@reddit
You don't need them, there's no danger in operating without them. You'll have a warning on the dash perhaps. You can't do it yourself (unless you have the special equipment needed) because you have to separate the bead from the rim and you need to be able to re-balance the wheel after installing them.
Even I couldn't do it. I could install them, but couldn't re-balance the wheels properly.
It's definitely a convenient thing to have, but not at all necessary. I've never had them on any car.
One thing to be said: if you're lazy like me, they might be something worth getting. I found I was driving around with a low tire and didn't notice. This is embarrassing because I know better and I'm also a technician (just not automotive). I don't know how long I drove like that (I suspect a week or two), but it was a brand-new tire (the valve stem split) and I could've ruined it.
If I'd had sensors, I would've noticed much earlier, though that isn't an option because my car doesn't come with the system and I'm not buying an aftermarket one. My solution: a quick visual check before I leave. These sorts of driver aids can be nice, but they're also an extra hassle: something else to fail. I'd prefer to get in the habit of the visual check instead.
mynameisranger1@reddit
I never think about my spare tire. In that case, the TPM is beneficial. If money was tight, I would spend that money on something more important and try to remember to check the spare once in a while.
QuestYoshi@reddit
you don’t need tire pressure sensors however they are convenient. it sounds like you know how to manually check your tire pressures with a gauge which if you get in the habit of doing semi regularly and airing up/down when needed then no you really have no need for the sensors other then they are convenient and tell you if a tire is low without you checking.
foolproofphilosophy@reddit
Are they in fact not working? Do you have a tire pressure warning?
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
They are in fact not working. My little dummy light stays on and when I scroll through the little screen thing all my pressures are flatline. I try not to get hustled by people I have to rely on to do a job I can’t. I figured it was a good option to come ask a bunch of car people.
foolproofphilosophy@reddit
Cool I wanted to make sure, it wasn’t quite clear if they were actually dead or the shop was claiming that they were about to die.
You can buy powered inflators for short money and skip the Kwik Trip. If nothing else you can take care of your tires on your own time. I prefer the wired ones to battery power. They’re more powerful. They typically come with a wall plug and a 12v car plug. If you use the car plug do it with the car running - you’ll get more power.
pdxsilverguy@reddit
If you have a warning light on or blinking for tire pressure its safe to assume you have sensors.
New-Top-9012@reddit
Spend about $25 to buy a electrical tire inflator from Amazon. It has a digital display and very accurate. You use it to check tire pressure and add more air. Do it weekly at first and longer intervals later. Do not use the cheap mechanical tire pressure, since you have to go gas station for expensive air, that will end up you will hate and skip.
Worried_Transition_7@reddit
Where did you get new tires from that the install did not include replacing the TPMS? Discount tire and many others include it in the price of installation.
pleasedontthankyou@reddit (OP)
I had to go to Walmart- not my first choice EVER but I had a day off of both of my jobs and it lined up for me and I was realllllly pushing it with my old tires. They just did tires and alignment.
hide_pounder@reddit
I’ve been driving my truck for 11 years. Over 196k miles. The entire time I’ve had it, the tire pressure monitoring system has not worked. I get a light on my dash every 50 miles or so saying system failure. I clear the light and keep on going. I am my own TPMS.
You don’t need it.
FearlessTomatillo911@reddit
You don't need them if you're just driving around, probably will need to replace them if you plan on selling your car.
Most of the world has no requirements for TPMS
superbotnik@reddit
They aren’t mandated in Canada so you can ignore the system if you’re in Canada.
No_Educator_6376@reddit
Just get in the habit of doing it old school keep a tire pressure gauge in your car and use it when you fill up with gas. The recommended pressure is on the sticker by the door jamb if needed add air
jolsiphur@reddit
Very much still useful. Just keep an eye on your levels from time to time and you'll be fine. My 2024 model year vehicle doesn't even have a TPMS installed.
If you keep an eye on your levels and check them (when they are cold), you'll be fine. As you probably already know, the amount of pressure your tires should have is printed on a card in your driver's side door jamb. Just manually check it and keep them around that pressure, you'll be perfectly fine.
The_Real_Dindalu@reddit
Don’t need them. I’ve driven my car years like this and haven’t had problems. You can also go to an auto store to pick up an analog tire pressure sensor for super cheap. Check it every 3-4 months or around the change of a season (summer->winter) Carry it in your car as you may not always be next to a gas station with a compressor and pressure reader.
FirehawkLS1@reddit
I personally just carry around an analog / mechanical tire pressure gauge in my cars along with a portable air compressor. I would just do that and check your tire pressure on a regular basis. Maybe every fill up at the pump.
Chainsawsas70@reddit
No you can get These and just make sure to give them a look every few days and make sure they are all in the green. https://a.co/d/0c88QP9W Cheap low tech alternative.
averagemaleuser86@reddit
If your tire pressure warning light is on, then yes you have an issue with the TPMS or sensors. If you dont have a warning light on for the TPMS then dont worry about it. Its also just a convenience on most vehicles unless you have a high end car like a BMW that will limit top speed if the TPMS light is on.
MysticMarbles@reddit
Canadian here. None of my vehicles have them from factory and I somehow have survived.
Playful-Job2938@reddit
My light shines bright and proud since I have a winter/summer set of tires.
Mundane-Exercise6333@reddit
They rebuild them when they install new tires. Usually a new battery and valve. It’s $12 a tire at Discount Tire. Is $48 worth it to not have to check the air in your tires daily/weekly? Up to you to decide. I replaced mine after not doing it and getting a blow out on the highway. One tire installed was $383. So to me…sooooo worth it.
The_Tipsy_Turner@reddit
As others have said you don't need them. Just check your tire pressure before work every day. Get a cheap couple dollar gauge from any auto parts store and measure the pressure. Only takes an extra couple minutes.
if you're pressed for time, just visually inspect the tires daily and make sure they aren't obviously low. Break out the actual gauge once or more a week to get the actual reading to ensure they aren't slowly going flat.
ArnoldFarquar@reddit
we somehow managed before they were invented
SwitchCaseGreen@reddit
Get yourself a $12 tire gauge from Walmart or wherever else and check your tire pressure once a month or so. I've set an alarm in my phone to check my pressures the first Saturday of the month because I've had so many issues with TPMS sensors.
1MrE@reddit
No. Just keeping an eye and checking them with a pressure gauge (1-2$) once in awhile has worked for me for over 20 years on multiple cars and trucks until my recent vehicle. It has those stupid things. Just ignore it. Do it the old fashion way and manually look at them ever now and then.
Evil__Crouton@reddit
If you don't mind a light on your dashboard then you don't need tpms. I opted not to get them for the show tires I had for my last car and just stuck a piece of black tape over the light in the winter.
naterpotater246@reddit
You're not gonna be able to replace them on your own without a tire machine and a tool to program the new sensors. They're not really important, though. Just make it a habit to check your tires periodically and/or just do a quick walk around to make sure you don't have a flat before driving off.
smthngeneric@reddit
They're not necessary no. Just check them manually every once in awhile. Like once a month or if one looks/feels low.
skippy5433@reddit
You don’t need them. Just know that you will probably have a “low tire pressure” warning light on your dash without them.