Everything You Need to Know About Your Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in your car is there for a crucial reason: to alert you when one or more of your tyres need inflating. If you see a light pop up on your dashboard that looks like a yellow horseshoe with an exclamation mark in the middle, it’s time to check your tyres.

Why Is My TPMS Light On?

There are a few common reasons why your TPMS light might be triggered:

  • Low Tyre Pressure: One or more of your tyres might be low on air.
  • Slow Leak: A tyre could have a slow leak that needs attention.
  • Faulty Sensor: The sensor itself might be malfunctioning.

Does My Car Have a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System?

Not sure if your car is equipped with TPMS? It’s easy to find out. Check your owner’s manual, or simply turn your key to the “on” position and see if the TPMS warning light appears on your dash.

How Does My TPMS Work?

Depending on your vehicle, TPMS operates in one of two ways:

  • Direct TPMS: This system uses sensors mounted inside the wheels to measure the air pressure in each tyre. If the pressure drops 25% below the manufacturer’s recommended level, the sensor sends a signal to your car’s computer, which then triggers the warning light.
  • Indirect TPMS: This system works alongside your car’s Antilock Braking System (ABS). If a tyre’s pressure is low, it will rotate at a different speed compared to the other tyres. The ABS sensors pick up on this difference, and your car’s computer triggers the warning light.

Why Is TPMS Important?

Your TPMS is more than just a warning light; it’s a key part of keeping your car safe and running efficiently. Properly inflated tyres last longer, reduce your braking distance, improve fuel economy, and, most importantly, ensure your safety on the road.

What Should I Do If My TPMS Light Comes On?

If the TPMS light comes on, it’s important to check your tyres as soon as possible:

  • Check Your Tyre Pressure: Use a gauge to check that all your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. You can find the recommended levels in your car’s manual or on a sticker usually located on the driver’s door or fuel flap.
  • Inflate Your Tyres: If your tyres are under-inflated, inflate them according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Reset The TPMS: After adjusting the tyre pressure, follow the steps in your vehicle’s control panel to reset the system. On some models, simply driving the vehicle will reset the TPMS warning.

What If The TPMS Light Stays On?

If the warning light remains on after you’ve checked and adjusted your tyre pressure, it’s time to bring your car to us. Our experienced, brand-trained technicians can carry out a diagnostic check to identify and resolve any issues with your TPMS, ensuring everything is in top working order.

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FAQs

Why do I need to service my vehicle?

Service Volks Autos

Regularly servicing your vehicle not only ensures its safety but also helps prevent unnecessary additional repairs, keeping it in the best possible condition. Routine oil and filter changes are essential, as the oil lubricates internal components, and the filters collect particles that contaminate the oil during use. By regularly servicing your vehicle, you can avoid costly mechanical repairs in the future and maintain optimal performance.

What service do I need?

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Minor Service: Typically recommended every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.

Minor Service With Pollen Filter: Typically recommended every 2 years or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Major Service: Typically recommended every 4 years or 40,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Please Note: Service intervals may vary depending on your vehicle’s needs and the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you are unsure about the type of service your vehicle requires, our friendly and knowledgeable service team is here to assist you. We can access your manufacturer's technical data, service intervals, and schedules. We will guide you through the manufacturer's recommendations based on your vehicle's age and service history.

What is an air filter?

The function of an Air filter is to help stop contaminants from getting into the engine, helping to extend its life. It also lets the engine breathe more easily, which can help enhance performance and efficiency.

What is a pollen filter?

The purpose of a pollen filter is to stop contaminants getting into your interior via its heating and ventilation system. The pollen filter prevents dust, dirt, soot and pollen entering your vehicle interior. As well as having the added benefit of protecting against pollution gases, exhaust fumes and bad odour.

Must I use a main dealer until my manufacturer’s warranty expires?

You are not required to have your vehicle serviced by a main dealer to maintain the manufacturer's warranty. Thanks to the European Block Exemption regulation introduced in October 2003, you can choose where to service your car. At Volks Autos, our brand-trained technicians ensure that your service follows the manufacturer's recommended schedule using approved parts. We will update your service book or digital service schedule to reflect the completed work.

Can only main dealer update my Digital Service Record?

As a registered German car specialist, we have secure access to check and update your service record for all German vehicles and most manufacturers currently using Digital Service Records. Additionally, we can review your Digital Service Record to provide advice on any upcoming service items that may be due, all in line with your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications. 

Explore Our Guide to Digital Service Records

Can you reset my service light once the service is complete?

Yes. We have all the necessary electronic equipment to be able to reset your service light and variable service indicators once we have completed your service here at Volks Autos.

Do you perform a health check on my vehicle during the service?

Volks Autos Health Check For Service

During your oil change service, our brand-trained technicians will perform a detailed Health Check on your vehicle. This check covers various aspects of your vehicle's health, and the results will be sent directly to your phone, allowing you to see any issues first-hand.

Learn more by visiting our Health Checks Explained

Will you let me know if there is any additional work needed?

We will not proceed with any additional work without your authorisation. If further repairs are needed, your service advisor will contact you with an estimate for the required work.

3rd party warranty – Can I use this at Volks Autos?

Yes, you can use a third-party warranty at Volks Autos. After diagnosing the fault, we can communicate with your warranty company on your behalf, explaining the issue and providing a repair estimate. Typically, customers pay the repair fees to the garage, and the warranty company reimburses them. Most warranty companies require the customer to authorise and cover diagnosis costs before agreeing to contribute to the repair.

Do you offer warranty on repairs you carry out?

We use only the highest quality parts from trusted suppliers and offer a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on all mechanical repairs.

Do I need to pay upfront?

Payment is due upon completion of the work when you collect your vehicle. We accept most credit and debit cards or cash. Some special order parts may need to be paid for before ordering.

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