Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Real-Time Safety for Every Drive
Modern driving demands modern safety solutions. One of the most effective — yet often overlooked — technologies is the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
This intelligent system continuously tracks your tyre pressure in real time and alerts you when it drops below a safe level. Beyond safety, TPMS helps save fuel, reduce CO₂ emissions, and extend tyre life — all while enhancing comfort and confidence on the road.
Fast Facts: Advantages of TPMS
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Continuously monitors tyre inflation pressure and alerts the driver if it falls below a safe threshold.
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Improves fuel efficiency and reduces CO₂ emissions.
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Optimises tyre performance, including braking and aquaplaning protection.
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Extends tyre lifespan through proactive maintenance.
Why Tyre Pressure Matters
Driving safety and comfort are directly linked to the condition of your tyres. Poorly maintained tyres don’t just wear faster — they can be dangerous.
In fact, around 40% of unexpected tyre failures are caused by underinflation. When tyres operate below the recommended pressure:
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Handling becomes unstable.
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Braking distances increase.
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Heat builds up, risking blowouts.
To combat these risks, Continental developed an advanced Tyre Pressure Monitoring System that constantly checks tyre pressure and alerts drivers via a dashboard warning light when attention is needed.
How the TPMS Works
TPMS technology takes tyre safety to the next level by monitoring inflation pressure directly and continuously.
Here’s how it works:
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Battery-powered sensors mounted inside each wheel (integrated into the valve) measure tyre pressure and temperature.
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These readings are transmitted wirelessly to an onboard receiver.
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Specialised software processes the data and displays the results on the vehicle’s dashboard.
If the pressure drops below a safe limit, the driver is immediately alerted — long before a critical situation develops.
Smart, Efficient Monitoring
TPMS technology is highly adaptive:
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When the car is in motion, pressure and temperature are measured every few seconds, providing continuous updates.
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When the car is stationary, the system switches to longer intervals to conserve battery life, sending data only when a change in pressure is detected.
This real-time awareness helps drivers react quickly to potential issues — whether it’s a slow leak or a sudden drop caused by a puncture.
More Than Just Pressure Alerts
Modern TPMS systems offer a suite of smart functions designed to enhance both safety and performance:
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Rate of pressure leakage detection to identify slow punctures early.
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Temperature tracking for each tyre.
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Automatic tyre identification, including spare tyres.
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Speed-related warning signals for dynamic accuracy.
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Modular, scalable system architecture compatible with Continental’s full range of vehicle solutions.
In essence, TPMS provides drivers with a real-time “health report” of their tyres — helping prevent accidents before they happen.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Benefits
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, forcing your vehicle to use more fuel. Even a drop of 0.3 bar in pressure can lead to a 1.5% rise in fuel consumption — and a corresponding increase in CO₂ emissions.
By ensuring that tyres are always properly inflated, TPMS not only improves safety but also contributes to lower running costs and reduced environmental impact.
TPMS and European Regulations
Since 2014, the European Commission has required all new vehicles sold in Europe to include an integrated TPMS as standard equipment.
These systems often interact seamlessly with other vehicle technologies, such as braking and stability control systems, to create a safer, smarter driving environment.
Manual Checks Still Matter
Even with TPMS, it’s important to remember: technology is not a substitute for good habits.
Continental recommends checking your tyre pressure manually every two to four weeks, particularly before long trips or significant temperature changes.
A quick manual check ensures your tyres remain at the optimal level for:
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Safety
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Comfort
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Performance
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Fuel economy
Key Takeaway
The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is more than a warning light — it’s a proactive safety companion that protects you, your passengers, and your tyres.
By combining real-time monitoring, advanced software, and precision engineering, TPMS helps you:
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Drive more safely,
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Save on fuel, and
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Keep your tyres performing at their best for longer.
Regular checks and responsible driving complete the picture — for total confidence on every journey.