What to Consider When Choosing a TPMS Supplier?

March 7, 2023 Steve Jones

Ever thought about how important it is to monitor your vehicle’s tire pressure? The reality is that underinflated tires can increase the risk of accidents and decrease fuel efficiency, costing you both money and peace of mind.

That’s where TPMS sensors come in. They’re designed to monitor tire pressure and alert you when it’s time to fatten up your tires.

But not all TPMS sensors are created equal. And with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which supplier to trust. Do you choose the cheapest option? The most expensive? The one with the most features?

Let’s explore some key tips to help you choose the right TPMS supplier for your needs.

1. Look for a Supplier with a Strong Reputation

When it comes to choosing a TPMS supplier, reputation is key. You want to choose a company with a proven track record of reliability and quality. But how can you know if a supplier offers durable TPMS sensors that perform well over time?

Here’s what you have to do:

Do Your Research – Look for customer reviews online and read what other vehicle owners have to say about the supplier’s products and services.
Ask People What They Think – Seek out the opinions of people who’ve been using the supplier’s TPMS sensors for a while. This will give you a better idea of how well they hold up over time.
Look for Industry Awards or Certifications – Has the supplier been recognized by any industry organizations for excellence in TPMS technology or customer service? If so, they may provide high-quality products and services.

2. Check Compatibility with Your Vehicle and Other Systems

Before choosing a TPMS supplier, make sure their sensors are compatible with your specific make and model of vehicle. You don’t want to shell out the big bucks on a sensor only to find it doesn’t work for you.

And while you’re doing that, consider any other systems or software you may be using to manage your vehicle, such as fleet management software or telematics systems, and look for sensors compatible with these systems as well.

Remember that some TPMS sensors have built-in compatibility with specific systems, while others may require additional hardware or software for integration. So, make sure you understand the compatibility requirements for each sensor you’re considering.

Also, if you have a newer vehicle, you may need to choose TPMS sensors compatible with direct TPMS (dTPMS) systems, which use sensors in each tire to send data directly to the vehicle’s computer.

Older vehicles may use indirect TPMS (iTPMS) systems, which rely on the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) to detect changes in tire pressure.

3. Consider the Level of Support and Service

Considering the level of support and service offered by a TPMS supplier is also important to keep in mind when choosing a supplier. Here are some tips to help you evaluate the support and service provided:

Look for a Supplier with a Comprehensive Customer Support Program – It should include technical assistance, troubleshooting, and repair services.
Consider the Availability of Customer Support – Does the supplier offer support during business hours only, or are they available 24/7 in case of emergencies?
Check the Supplier’s Website and Read Customer Reviews – It’ll help you understand the quality of their support services.
Ask About the Supplier’s Return Policy and Warranty – A good supplier should stand behind their products and offer a reasonable return policy and warranty to protect their customers.
Check Out the Supplier’s Experience in the Industry – A supplier with a long history in the TPMS industry will likely have more experience and knowledge to offer regarding support and service.

4. Factor in Sensor and Maintenance/Repair Costs

While you don’t want to choose a supplier based solely on price, you should make sure the cost of the sensors and any necessary maintenance or repairs fits within your budget. Here’s how to make sure you don’t end up broke:

Research the Costs of Different TPMS Sensors – Remember that cheaper sensors may not always be the best option if they’re less durable or inaccurate. Also, don’t forget to compare prices between suppliers.
Consider Ongoing Maintenance or Calibration Requirements – Some sensors may require regular maintenance or calibration to ensure accurate readings, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Ask About Repair or Replacement Costs – A good supplier should be transparent about the costs of repairing or replacing sensors in case of damage or malfunction.
Consider the Overall Value of the Sensors – The value includes factors like accuracy, durability, and reliability. A more expensive sensor may be a better value in the long run if it lasts longer and provides more accurate readings.

5. Look for Integration and Customization Options

According to Porcsi, a leading TPMS supplier, if you use fleet management systems or other specialized software, make sure the TPMS sensors you choose can integrate with those systems.

Why? Because as we’ve explained before, integration can help you more easily monitor your vehicle’s tire pressure and prevent problems before they occur. Here’s how to evaluate integration and customization options offered by TPMS suppliers:

Ask the Supplier About Their Integration Options – Do they offer sensors that can be easily integrated with fleet management systems or other specialized software?
Consider Any Available Customization Options – Some suppliers may offer custom sensors or programming options that can be tailored to your specific needs.
Check the Supplier’s Level of Innovation and Technology – A supplier at the forefront of TPMS technology is more likely to offer integration and customization options meeting your needs.

The Bottom Line

Every little detail matters when it comes to your vehicle’s safety and efficiency. And that includes making sure you’ve got the right TPMS supplier on board.

So, don’t just settle for any supplier. Do your homework and find one that ticks all the boxes: good rep, compatible with your vehicle, top-notch customer service, affordable costs, and the ability to customize.

Because at the end of the day, investing in your vehicle’s health and your own safety is always a smart move.