Does Subaru use indirect TPMS?
Yes, Subaru uses an indirect tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) in its vehicles. Indirect TPMS systems monitor the relative differences in wheel speed to detect changes in tire pressure, rather than using direct pressure sensors in each tire.
What is Indirect TPMS?
Indirect TPMS is a type of tire pressure monitoring system that does not require pressure sensors installed in each tire. Instead, it uses the vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensors to monitor the relative rotational speed of each wheel. When a tire's pressure drops, its diameter decreases, causing it to rotate at a slightly faster speed than the other tires. The indirect TPMS system detects this difference in wheel speed and alerts the driver that a tire has low pressure.
How Does Subaru's Indirect TPMS Work?
Subaru's indirect TPMS system works as follows:
- The ABS sensors on each wheel constantly monitor the rotational speed of the tires.
- The system compares the relative speeds of the four wheels and looks for any significant differences.
- If a tire's pressure drops by about 25% or more, its diameter will decrease, causing it to rotate faster than the other tires.
- The TPMS system detects this difference in wheel speed and triggers a warning light on the dashboard to alert the driver.
This allows Subaru to monitor tire pressure without the need for individual pressure sensors in each tire, which can be more cost-effective and simpler to implement.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Indirect TPMS
The main advantages of Subaru's indirect TPMS system are:
- Lower cost to implement compared to direct TPMS systems with individual tire sensors.
- Fewer components, making the system more reliable and easier to maintain.
- No need to replace battery-powered sensors in each tire.
The main disadvantage is that indirect TPMS systems may not be as accurate as direct TPMS in detecting small changes in tire pressure. They also cannot provide the exact pressure reading for each tire, only an indication that a tire's pressure has dropped significantly.
Overall, Subaru's use of indirect TPMS is a cost-effective and reliable solution to meet the regulatory requirements for tire pressure monitoring in its vehicles.
What are the 2 types of TPMS systems?
There are two different types of tire pressure monitoring systems:
- Indirect TPMS: Indirect TPMS measure air pressure with software-based systems rather than physical sensors.
- Direct TPMS: Direct TPMS measures tire pressure using waterproof hardware sensors located in each tire (or on the valve stem).
How do I know if my TPMS are direct or indirect?
Direct TPMS gathers accurate pressure data directly from the tire valve via four dedicated sensors, reporting pressure information in near real time. Indirect TPMS, on the other hand, uses the ABS system to approximate tire pressure, and motorists must drive a substantial distance before an alert will be generated.
What vehicles use indirect TPMS?
Certain vehicles utilize indirect TPMS systems instead of direct ones. Examples of manufacturers that use indirect prominently are Honda and Volkswagen. Since the systems measure tire pressure indirectly, there's no sensors inside the wheels. Instead the vehicles use the data from the ABS sensors inside each wheel hub.
What is the disadvantage of indirect TPMS?
Because of the absence of pressure sensors, a vehicle equipped with indirect TPMS requires the device to be recalibrated by the driver after tire pressure is modified or a tire is changed.
What is the TPMS problem on a Subaru?
The TPMS light indicates that one or more of your tires on your Subaru is low on pressure. This might be a result of a puncture or a leak, or it could just the result of a big swing in the outside temperature.
Is Subaru AWD always engaged?
Improved Traction: Subaru's AWD system is always engaged, ensuring power is sent to the wheels with the most grip. This results in improved traction on icy and snowy roads, reducing the likelihood of slipping or getting stuck.
What type of TPMS does Subaru use?
A TPMS from Schrader Electronics is fitted as part of the valve assembly in all Subaru cars according to the table shown below. The sensor measures the pressure and temperature in the tire and transmits this data along with the unique ID of the TPMS to the tire pressure monitor ECU/receiver.
What is the life expectancy of a Subaru TPMS sensor?
TPMS Life Expectancy
The estimated life expectancy of an OE TPMS sensor is 5 to 12 years, with the average lifespan being 7 years. TPMS life expectancy is directly related to the number of radio frequency transmissions the sensors make.
Why is my tire pressure light still on after filling tires on my Subaru?
If your tire pressure light persists even after diligent inflation, it might be time for a reset. This guide outlines the essential steps to reset your TPMS light on and restore your TPMS functionality.
Is Subaru TPMS direct or indirect?
The Subaru Crosstrek is manufactured with a direct TPMS system, which means TPMS sensors are installed in the wheel.
