How tyre-pressure monitoring systems work

Direct TPMS uses a pressure sensor inside each wheel. It can usually identify a pressure loss before the vehicle moves and may show individual tyre pressures on the dashboard. Sensor replacement or relearning can sometimes require specialist equipment.

Indirect TPMS uses the ABS wheel-speed sensors to identify a tyre whose rolling circumference has changed. This system normally needs recalibrating after tyre pressures are adjusted, tyres are replaced or wheels are moved.

Dashboard wording and reset steps vary between trim levels and software versions. Follow the vehicle’s on-screen instructions and owner’s manual where they differ from the guidance above.