How to Reset Your Tyre Pressures with TPMS
Essential Advice from TyreSafe and Lindleys Autocentres
Correct tyre pressure is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and overall tyre health. In our partnership with TyreSafe, we’re committed to keeping drivers informed on how to reset tyre pressures, understand Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), and follow TyreSafe’s ACT principles for tyre care. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tyre pressure, from setting it right to ensuring it meets your vehicle’s load requirements.
What is TPMS and why is it Important?
A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system in your vehicle that alerts you when your tyre pressure is too high or too low. By quickly notifying you of any change in tyre pressure, TPMS helps to prevent unsafe conditions, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of tyre-related incidents on the road.
“Driving on correctly inflated tyres isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s essential for road safety,” says Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair. “By staying vigilant about tyre pressure, drivers can save on fuel, reduce emissions, and minimise the risk of incidents.”
Such is the importance of correct tyre inflation on passenger vehicles that TPMS is regarded as an essential safety feature. TPMS constantly monitors tyre pressures or detects imbalances, providing a warning if pressures fall below a safe threshold. While it’s a valuable tool, it should not replace regular manual tyre safety checks.
The Different Types of TPMS Explained
There are two types of TPMS fitted on cars today:
Direct TPMS uses radio sensors mounted inside each wheel to measure tyre pressures directly and send the data to a control unit.
Indirect TPMS uses the vehicle’s ABS sensors to measure and compare the rotational speeds of tyres, indirectly calculating tyre pressures.
Both systems work with the vehicle’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to alert the driver via dashboard warning lights if pressure loss or imbalances are detected.
ACT: Pressure as Part of Essential Tyre Care
Tyre pressure is one of the fundamental elements of TyreSafe’s ACT safety acronym:
- A for Air Pressure – Ensure tyres are properly inflated to maximise handling, grip, and efficiency.
- C for Condition – Regularly inspect tyres for cuts, cracks, and other visible damage.
- T for Tread – Check tread depth to ensure it meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm for safe driving.
TyreSafe recommends that all drivers perform these checks once a month, every month, and before long journeys to help prevent avoidable issues on the road.
Why Driving with Correct Tyre Inflation Matters
Underinflated tyres are a major contributor to increased fuel consumption. In fact, it’s estimated that UK drivers waste over £1 billion in fuel annually due to underinflated tyres. Correct tyre inflation not only saves money and reduces emissions but also ensures safer driving by improving tyre contact with the road, enhancing vehicle handling, and reducing the risk of tyre failure.
Adjusting Tyre Pressure According to Load
It’s important to adjust tyre pressure based on your vehicle’s load. When carrying heavy cargo or additional passengers, you may need to increase your tyre pressure to ensure stability and prevent over-flexing. Consult your vehicle manual for specific load guidelines, which can vary by vehicle model.
Don’t Just Rely on TPMS—Use an Accurate Gauge
While TPMS is a valuable tool, it’s essential not to rely on technology alone. TyreSafe recommends using an accurate tyre pressure gauge to manually check your tyre pressures, as TPMS might not detect small pressure variations. Regular checks with a reliable gauge ensure you’re driving on properly inflated tyres, especially before long journeys or when your vehicle is heavily loaded.
How to Know the Correct Pressure for Your Tyres
Your vehicle’s correct tyre pressure can be found in the owner’s manual, on a sticker inside the driver’s door, or on the fuel cap cover. Remember, these pressures can vary based on your load and speed requirements, so it’s wise to check before adjusting your tyres for specific trips.
Lindleys Autocentres recommends checking tyre pressures every two weeks and following these steps to reset your TPMS if necessary:
- Locate the TPMS reset button—usually under the dashboard or within the infotainment system.
- With the ignition on, press and hold the reset button until the TPMS light blinks, indicating the system is recalibrating.
- Drive your vehicle for a short distance to allow the sensors to reset.
Conclusion
Ensuring your tyres are at the correct pressure is a small step that has a huge impact on safety, vehicle performance, and fuel savings. Through the combined efforts of ourselves and TyreSafe, you have access to the expert guidance needed to keep your tyres, and your journeys, safer. For more information, support and tips on tyre maintenance and safety, head to tyresafe.org
