TPMS valve replacement cost in the UK
Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) have been fitted to cars for a number of years, first appearing on luxury cars such as the Porsche 959 in the late 1980s. These systems constantly monitor the pressures in the vehicle's tyres and warn the driver if the pressure falls below a certain level or there is a pressure imbalance where the air pressure of one tyre is much lower than the others.
There are two different types of TPMS that can be fitted on vehicles: indirect systems and direct systems.
Indirect systems make use of the existing ABS sensors in order to measure and compare the tyre's rotational speeds; these speeds are affected by the tyre inflation pressure so they can indicate if there is a potential problem.
Direct systems utilise radio sensors (mounted inside each wheel) to measure the inflation pressures. The advantages of direct systems are that they deliver actual and highly accurate readings from inside each tyre and it is easy to resynchronise after tyre replacement or rotation.
Both of these systems are able to integrate with the main ECU and can alert drivers via warning lights on the dashboard should there be any concerning pressure loss or pressure variance between tyres.
TPMS and MOTs
Since November 2014, all new passenger vehicles sold within the EU have to be equipped with a TPMS and it is now part of the standard MOT in the UK. If the TPMS is faulty or inaccurate, then this will result in the vehicle failing its MOT.
TPMS Components
The key components in a TPMS are the sensors, the battery, and tyre valve stem. The batteries are reasonably long-lasting (from 4 to 8 years), whilst the sensors and valve stem are both exposed to all types of adverse conditions so may not last as long.
TPMS Maintenance and Servicing
Despite TPMS technology being available and highly-accurate, it is important to still regularly check your tyre pressures manually.
TPMS should be serviced regularly in order to ensure that they are able to take accurate readings. The most common problems found are with the TPMS valves breaking, the sensor batteries dying, and sensors being damaged when tyres are changed or the vehicle is involved in an accident.
Protyre garages offer a free TPMS check that uses specialist diagnostic equipment tools to detect any issues. If TPMS sensor replacement or TPMS valve service is needed, you will be advised at the time how much this will cost before it goes ahead. It is easy to book a free TPMS check at your nearest Protyre either online or over the phone.
As well as TPMS checks, Protyre garages offer MOTs, services, and tyre replacement. All Protyre garages stock an extensive range of tyres by manufacturers, including Pirelli, Falken, Bridgestone, and more.
If you have any questions or queries, our tyre professionals are always happy to help - so please feel free to call your local Protyre if you need advice.