What is a Tire Pressure Monitoring System?
It is a feature on many newer vehicles that monitors tire pressure and warns the driver, with a light on the dash if one or more of the tire’s pressure falls 25% below the original equipment manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure.

Why do Tire Pressure monitoring systems exist?
As a result of tire related safety concerns Congress passed the TREAD Act in 2000. Part of the TREAD Act requires the vehicle manufacturers to install Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems in new vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less.

What vehicles have it?
Passenger cars, SUV’s, and light trucks. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems have been progressively introduced in new vehicles since 2005. Beginning in 2008 model year, most new vehicles will have Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems. Refer to your owner’s manual for more information.

Your vehicle may have it.
When you start your vehicle, look at the dash for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System warning lamp. If you see the warning lamp light momentarily your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What does it mean when the warning lamp is on?
The warning lamp should light momentarily when the vehicle is started. If the light is on steady that means tire pressure is low in one or more of the tires, or the system is not able to read the sensors. See owner’s manual for more information.

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems may require additional service after tire or wheel service.
Replacement or relocation of a sensor and even tire pressure correction may create the need for a re-calibration or re-learn procedure to be performed.

Can I use an aerosol flat fix product with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems?
It is possible that these products can plug up the sensor and make it malfunction, in most cases requiring replacement of the sensor.

Does this mean I don’t need to check my tire pressure?
Utz Tire still recommends regular tire pressure checks every 30 days. Properly maintained tire pressure improves vehicle safety, handling, braking, fuel mileage and decreases tire wear. Come in any time and we will be happy to check your tire pressure for you at no charge.