Does Spare Tire have TPMS? – Busting the Myth!

The importance of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) cannot be overstated. These systems play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and performance of vehicles on the road.

However, when it comes to spare tires, there seems to be some confusion regarding their compatibility with TPMS. In this article, we will explore the topic of whether spare tires have TPMS and shed light on the significance of this feature.

Does Spare Tire have TPMS?

While not all spare tires, some do include TPMS sensors. It depends on the particular tire and vehicle. Some full-size spare tires do, in fact, feature TPMS sensors, which means that if the air pressure in your spare tire drops too low, the TPMS warning light on your dashboard will activate.

Similarly, the spare tire’s TPMS is a component of the system, and even if it is the only tire with low pressure, the TPMS light will come on. However, observes that the spare tire lacks a TPMS sensor, causing the TPMS light on the dashboard to illuminate because it is unable to obtain a reading from that tire.

TPMS sensors can be added to spare tires if they don’t already have them, however this is more common for full-size spare tires than compact spares. The spare tire features a sensor for monitoring tire pressure, but it is not used until one of the other four road tires are put on the vehicle.

Key Takeways:

• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems) are crucial for vehicle safety and performance.
• Some spare tires come equipped with TPMS sensors, providing real-time pressure monitoring.
• “Temporary spares” or “donut spares” often lack TPMS and are meant for short-term use.
• TPMS-equipped spare tires enhance safety, convenience, and peace of mind.
• Consult your vehicle manual or inspect the spare tire to check for TPMS presence.
• Having a spare tire is essential for emergencies, but driving limits (50 miles, 50 mph) should be observed.
• Different types of spare tires exist, including full-size, non-matching, compact temporary, and folding temporary.
• New tires can come with TPMS sensors, and installing TPMS costs around $50-$100 per sensor.
• TPMS can be self-installed by following instructions, and it’s beneficial for identifying tire conditions.
• TPMS service fee ensures proper functioning, and AutoZone can help check TPMS indicators.
• TPMS can be added to vehicles for various benefits, like monitoring tire pressure and recommending pressure levels.
• Some new wheels include TPMS, and the tire pressure light might come on after installing new tires.
• Not all tires have TPMS sensors, and TPMS looks like a horseshoe-shaped light with an exclamation point.
• TPMS is important for driving safety and should be considered for better tire performance.
• Proper maintenance and knowledge about TPMS capabilities are key to safe driving.

Understanding TPMS

Before delving into the topic at hand, let’s first understand what TPMS is and how it works. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems are electronic systems designed to monitor the air pressure inside tires.

They alert the driver when the pressure falls below the recommended level, helping to prevent accidents caused by underinflated tires.

TPMS and Spare Tires

Many modern vehicles come equipped with TPMS as a standard feature. These systems are typically installed in the four main tires of the vehicle. However, when it comes to spare tires, the situation may vary.

Some Spare Tires Have TPMS

In certain cases, spare tires are equipped with TPMS. This means that they have sensors installed, allowing the monitoring of tire pressure.

Such spare tires are designed to provide the driver with real-time pressure information, ensuring the same level of safety and convenience as the regular tires.

Some Spare Tires Do Not Have TPMS

On the other hand, there are spare tires that do not come with TPMS. These tires are often referred to as “temporary spares” or “donut spares.”

Unlike regular tires, they are not designed for long-term use and are intended to be used only as a temporary replacement in case of emergencies.

Since they are not equipped with TPMS sensors, the driver will not receive pressure monitoring information from these spare tires.

Connection Between TPMS and Spare Tires	Description
TPMS Alert for Spare Tire	Some vehicles equipped with TPMS also monitor the spare tire’s pressure. If the spare tire is included in the TPMS system, low pressure will trigger a warning.
TPMS Sensor in Spare Tire	In certain cases, the spare tire might have its own TPMS sensor. This allows real-time monitoring of the spare tire’s pressure, similar to regular tires.
TPMS Reset after Spare Tire Installation	When a spare tire is used, the TPMS system might need to be reset or recalibrated to account for the different pressure in the spare compared to the regular tires.
TPMS Deactivation with Spare Tire Use	Some vehicles deactivate TPMS when the spare tire is in use, as the spare might not have a TPMS sensor. This prevents false TPMS alerts during spare use.
TPMS Impact on Spare Tire Maintenance	Regular TPMS maintenance (like sensor battery replacement) can indirectly affect the accuracy of spare tire pressure monitoring if applicable.
TPMS Influence on Spare Tire Selection	The type of spare tire chosen (full-size spare, compact spare, run-flat tire) might impact TPMS functionality, compatibility, and pressure monitoring.

Importance of TPMS in Spare Tires

Having TPMS in spare tires can be beneficial in various ways. Here are a few reasons why TPMS is valuable even for spare tires:

Safety Concerns

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for vehicle safety. Underinflated tires can lead to reduced traction, poor handling, and increased risk of accidents.

By having TPMS in spare tires, drivers can ensure that even during emergency situations, they have access to accurate tire pressure information.

Convenience and Peace of Mind

Flat tires can happen unexpectedly, leaving drivers stranded on the side of the road. With TPMS-equipped spare tires, drivers can quickly identify if the spare tire is properly inflated or if it requires additional air.

This saves time and provides peace of mind, knowing that the spare tire is ready to be used.

Checking TPMS in Spare Tires

If your vehicle is equipped with TPMS and you are unsure whether your spare tire has this feature, there are a few ways to check:

Consult the Vehicle Manual

The vehicle manual is an excellent source of information regarding the features and specifications of your vehicle, including the spare tire. Refer to the manual to determine if your spare tire is equipped with TPMS.

Inspect the Spare Tire

Physically examine the spare tire and look for any sensors or wires connected to it. If you notice any, it is an indication that your spare tire has TPMS. However, keep in mind that some TPMS sensors may be hidden within the tire, making them less visible.

Is a spare tire important?

As you already know there are multiple types of spare wheels available, you can use any of those according to your need. Having a spare tire is important for your vehicle. The reason is, that you never know when you will need it.

Spare tires are stored as a backup. If your tires puncture or are damaged, spare tires can save you and get you out of it. According to the car’s computer system, you need to decide which type of tire you want.

However, we would recommend you have a full-size spare. It is because it can go with any type of spare and attaching it will be much easier.

We are describing all the things to let you know the importance of having a spare tire. In case you are in trouble like having a punctured tire while driving, a spare tire can get you out of it.

Is driving with a spare tire dangerous?

It’s true that when you are carrying a spare tire, it can put some extra weight on the vehicle. But it is not as dangerous as people think. There are a lot of myths about this fact. Some people claim that it’s okay to drive if you are carrying a small size spare tire.

But it’s not true. It doesn’t matter whether it is a big-size spare or a flat tire, it can cause you the same trouble as a big-size spare tire does. The reason is, that the spare tire pressure is the same.

A spare tire can drive to the nearest places to get the flat tire inspected. It can also be replaced or repaired easily. So, it doesn’t make much trouble for you. However, you need to be careful about some things.

It is not troublesome but it can bring trouble if you cross the driving limit when you are with spare tires. You must not drive more than 50 miles or over 50 mph.

When you are driving with a donut-type spare tire, you have to be sure about this thing. If you drive more than this, it can damage the parts of the car.

What are the types of spare tires?

There are multiple types of spare tires you can get as we already describe to you. They differ more in size than in function. Some are called full-size and non-matching spare tires.

Call it non-matching because it doesn’t match with the current tire sets that people generally use in their vehicles. The other type of tire is called a compact temporary spare tire. As the name suggests, it is compact in size and easy to carry too.

On the other side, there are full-size temporary spare tires, and folding temporary spare tires are also included in this list. You need to choose the proper one according to the need of your vehicle and choice.

Do new tires come with TPMS?

Yes, you can get TPMS with your new tires. As it is a compulsory thing for vehicles, most companies include a TPMS with new tires.

How much does it cost to have TPMS installed?

When you are installing or replacing a new TPMS, it will cost around $50-$100 for each. However, it depends on the size and type of both the system and the vehicle.

How can you tell if a tire has TPMS?

Checking the existence of a TPMS is easy. You just need to search for the lock nut that you can find on the valve stem. When you check that part, you will get a good idea about the wheel. If the wheel has sensors, that means there is a TPMS included.

Besides, if the valve stem is made of metal, then there is a good chance of having TPMS in there.

Do I need TPMS sensors for new tires?

Having TPMS sensors is a good way to identify the condition of tires. So, you definitely should get a TPMS for your vehicle. Most repair companies also suggest having TPMS sensors for better service.

Can you install TPMS sensors yourself?

Installing TPMS sensors by yourself is easy enough. You just need to follow the basic instructions for it. You can also check the owner’s manual for it.

For starting the process, you just need to take mounts and attach them to the porthole of the valve. Use a nut and an O-ring seal to do the installation.

What is a TPMS service fee?

A TPMS service fee is for the service pack that is included to maintain the function. When the process requires an additional charge,  you should know that it is for the assurance of better functioning.

Can AutoZone Check TPMS?

There are indicator lights and warning lights included with TPMS. you can get AutoZone and O’Reilly service that ensures to let you know about TPMS easily.

Also, you can check the condition of the tpms light, pressure light, and all about tpms malfunction indicator with it.

Can TPMS be added to a vehicle?

TPMS or a Tire Pressure Monitoring System can provide a lot of service for your vehicle.

It lets you know about the condition of the tire gauge, low tire pressure light, tire sealant, harmful interference, and the recommended pressure.

To get all the services, you need to attach TPMS to your vehicle as it is easy and affordable to do.

Do new wheels come with TPMS?

There are a lot of companies that provide TPMS with new wheels.

But if that does not happen, then you might face a lot of difficulties. So, make sure you are getting that wheel that has the TPMS function included.

Is it normal for the tire pressure light to come on after getting new tires?

The pressure sensor exists in the valve stem. When you install a new tire, the low tire pressure or low-pressure light doesn’t turn off. So, it is normal for tire pressure to come on after getting new tires.

Do tire pressure sensors come with tires?

Although a tire pressure sensor or TPMS is essential for tires, it is a new technology that was recently introduced. That’s the reason it is not available with all types of tires. However, some companies include TPMS along with tires.

Do all tires have TPMS sensors?

Not all tires have TPMS sensors as this is a newer technology. That’s how it is applicable to newer models like the 2008 model. But the 2006 and 2007 models also have TPMS which is a good thing.

What does a TPMS look like?

A TPMS looks like a horseshoe-shaped light. One noticeable thing is that there is an exclamation point in the center that helps to do the whole process.

Does my car need TPMS sensors?

TPMS is a new technology that helps a lot in your driving situation. For good safety and better driving, having a TPMS is a must.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the presence of TPMS in spare tires can vary depending on the vehicle and the type of spare tire. While some spare tires come equipped with TPMS, others do not have this feature. It is important to understand the capabilities of your spare tire and whether it has TPMS sensors installed.

Regardless of whether your spare tire has TPMS or not, regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure optimal tire performance and safety. Properly inflated spare tires, along with routine checks of tire pressure, contribute to a smooth and secure driving experience.

Remember, when it comes to tire safety, knowledge is key. Stay informed about your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring capabilities and make informed decisions to keep yourself and others safe on the road.