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Best Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Prevent a Crisis Before It Strikes

Be aware when problems arise with one of these handy, intelligent warning systems.

byHeather Fishel|
The Garage
Tires photo

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BYHeather Fishel/ LAST UPDATED ON August 2, 2022

You don’t have to wait until something feels imbalanced or a bit off to find out you’ve got a leaky tire or a flat. With the help of a smart tire pressure monitoring system, or TPMS, you can be alerted to problems quickly. Designed to pick up changes in tire pressure, these systems put small, unnoticeable sensors on each of your vehicle’s tires and let you check in on their pressure while you’re behind the wheel or parked at home. They don’t just work on sedans and SUVs; you can use a TPMS on everything from your pickup to your fifth wheel to your RV. Most important, today’s TPMS products are smarter than ever.

Best Overall
TST 507 Series TPMS

TST 507 Series TPMS

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Summary
Versatile, easy to set up, and in depth in its monitoring, this tire pressure monitoring system has all of the features you need.
Pros
  • Wide screen color display
  • Monitor up to four vehicles
  • Audible and visual alerts
Cons
  • Display can develop glare in sunlight
Best Value

Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System

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Summary
Affordable and reliable, this value-rich TPMS makes it super simple to keep tabs on your tire pressure, with solid accuracy.
Pros
  • Theft-resistant sensors
  • FIve alarm modes for different issues
  • Accurate within 3 psi
Cons
  • Vehicle must be moving to get sensor signal
  • Auto-shutoff after 10 minutes
Honorable Mention

TireMinder Smart Tire Pressure Monitoring System

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Summary
This smart tire pressure monitoring system works via Bluetooth to provide you with alerts right on your phone for multiple vehicles.
Pros
  • Pairs with smartphone app for monitoring anywhere
  • Long-lasting receiver batteries
  • Constant monitoring for six issues
Cons
  • Additional sensors must be purchased separately

Our Methodology

To choose the best tire pressure monitoring systems, I looked for options that included four sensors or more, were easy to use, and offered reliable readings and performance. I specifically sought out TPMS products made by reputable brands, and I considered systems for cars and vehicles such as RVs and fifth wheels. My top picks were those that offered simple installation and use, an easy-to-ready display or reporting system, and trustworthy results when tires encounter problems. Those with advanced or high-tech features were also among some of the best options. 

Best Tire Pressure Monitoring System Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: TST 507 Series TPMS

Best Value: Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Honorable Mention: TireMinder Smart Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Best Solar-Powered: Minder Research Tire Monitor

Best for Campers: Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System for RV

Best Comprehensive: Lippert Tire Linc Tire Monitoring System

Best Overall

TST 507 Series TPMS

SEE IT

Specs

  • Suitable for: cars, trailers, and towed vehicles
  • Number of sensors: 4
  • Display screen: LCD color display

Pros

  • Easy-to-install screw-on sensors
  • Wide screen display
  • Monitor up to four vehicles
  • Audible and visual alerts

Cons

  • Display can be difficult to read in sunlight

The TST 507 Series TPMS with Color Display is one well-rounded and complete tire pressure monitoring system. It’ll work for your typical car that’s lacking a built-in TPMS, but it can also be used for trailers and towed vehicles. It features four sensors that screw easily into place, and you can monitor up to four trailers total. Setup is effortless, and you’ll get reliable, easy-to-read data, including visual and audible alerts when something goes wrong. The 3.5-inch color display comes with a rubber display mount, and you can customize your high and low pressure alarm levels so you can keep as close an eye as you’d like. Plus, the entire kit is backed by a three-year warranty. The only reported negative feature of this TPMS is the display. When sunlight hits it at certain angles, the display can develop glare that makes it difficult to see clearly.

Best Value

Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System

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Specs

  • Suitable for: Cars, trailers, and towed vehicles
  • Number of sensors: 4
  • Display screen: Backlit LCD display

Pros

  • Theft-resistant sensors
  • Automatic backlight adjustment on display
  • Five alarm modes
  • Accurate within 3 psi

Cons

  • Vehicle must be moving to get signal from sensors
  • Goes to sleep after 10 minutes without motion

If you’re on a budget, the affordably priced Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System offers great value. This four-sensor set includes a sleek but simple-to-read display, easy-to-install sensors (which are so secure they’re theft proof), and multiple alarm modes. You can set your pressure and temperature alarm values to your liking, getting audio and visual alerts when your tires’ stats deviate from the norm. The LCD display screen is backlit, and it automatically adjusts based on the current situation (whether you’re charging, driving, getting an alert, or on standby). You’ll also have five alarm modes to keep you in the know about everything from fast leaks to pressure changes to low voltage on your tires’ sensors. This TPMS automatically shuts off after 10 minutes if your wheels aren’t turning. You also won’t get any signal from the tire sensors unless your vehicle is in motion.

Honorable Mention

TireMinder Smart Tire Pressure Monitoring System

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Specs

  • Suitable for: Cars, RVs, fifth wheels, and other trailers
  • Number of sensors: 4
  • Display screen: None, uses smartphone app

Pros

  • Pairs with smartphone app
  • Includes signal booster
  • Long-lasting receiver batteries
  • Constant monitoring for six issues

Cons

  • Must purchase additional sensors to monitor more vehicles

If you’re searching for a modern TPMS that’s high tech and extra convenient, you’re going to want to check out the TireMinder Smart Tire Pressure Monitoring System. This smart product offers four sensors that can be used on vehicles of all kinds, but it doesn't come with a display. It uses Bluetooth to pair with a smartphone app and deliver alerts right to your phone. You can monitor tires remotely, and the TPMS will provide constant insights, checking each tire in your system every six seconds. You can even monitor for extra issues. It’ll alert you to pressure changes, leaks, temperature changes, and blow outs. Plus, you’ll always be able to read the sensors thanks to the included signal booster. While this TPMS product claims it can monitor up to 22 tires at once, keep in mind that it only includes your standard four sensors. If you want to monitor more tires, you’ll have to purchase additional sensors separately.

Best Solar Powered

Minder Research Tire Monitor

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Specs

  • Suitable for: Dual or single axle trailers
  • Number of sensors: 4
  • Display screen: LCD color display

Pros

  • Powered by solar panel
  • Mountable monitor
  • Includes hard-wired signal booster
  • Built-in backup battery

Cons

  • Solely for trailer tires running 70 psi or less

Make your TPMS energy efficient and choose the Minder Research Tire Monitor. This highly efficient tire pressure monitoring system runs off one monocrystalline solar panel, which is paired with a built-in lithium-ion iron phosphate battery to store the extra power collected. That solar panel is paired with a color LCD display, which allows you to see tire pressure and temperature for all of your sensors and tires simultaneously. You won’t have to worry about replacing batteries or checking power levels thanks to this easy-to-power solar setup. Plus, the display itself is able to be mounted right to your windshield with the included sticky 3M strips. Just keep in mind that while convenient and energy efficient, this TPMS is only designed to be used on single or double axle tires that run at 70 psi or less. You won’t be able to use this system on higher tire pressure or for any tires beyond trailer tires.

Best for Campers

Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System for RV

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Specs

  • Suitable for: RVs, fifth wheels, trailers, and towed vehicles
  • Number of sensors: 6
  • Display screen: Backlit LCD display

Pros

  • Real-time, simultaneous monitoring
  • All-weather sensors sealed against moisture
  • Auto-scroll to show all sensors
  • Solar powered

Cons

  • Visible sensor caps
  • Screen can be difficult to read

If you’re looking for a TPMS that includes more sensors for vehicles like RVs and trailers, the Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System for RV and Trailer is a great option. Designed specifically for these types of camping-ready vehicles, this system includes six sensors for additional wheels. Those sensors run off tempered-glass solar panels, which makes them wonderfully eco-friendly. With long-lasting batteries, those sensors are built for the long haul. You’ll have five alarm modes to alert you to any problems, and you can set the minimum and maximum alarm values for tire pressure and temperature. All of the sensors are reliable in varying weather, too, thanks to their all-weather design that seals out dust, dirt, snow, and moisture. There are a couple of potential drawbacks to this tire pressure monitoring system. The LCD display, even though it’s backlit, can be difficult to read. You may find yourself squinting at the small screen. And the sensors that slide onto your tire valves do stand out. They’re very visible and not exactly sleek.

Best Comprehensive

Lippert Tire Linc Tire Monitoring System

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Specs

  • Suitable for: Cars, RVs, campers, and other towed vehicles
  • Number of sensors: 4
  • Display screen: None, uses smartphone app

Pros

  • Can monitor up to 20 tires simultaneously
  • Repeater technology strengthen wireless signal
  • Connects to OneControl smartphone app for monitoring
  • Quick-start, easy installation process

Cons

  • Additional sensors must be purchased separately

The Lippert Tire Linc Tire Pressure and Temperature Monitoring System will have you covered whether you’re working with multiple axles, a wealth of tires, or a variety of towed vehicles. With the ability to support and continuously monitor up to 20 tires, it’s quite comprehensive. Plus, you don’t have to worry about a separate display to check in on your vehicles. You can continuously monitor their data via the OneControl smartphone app, which gives you push notifications when there’s an issue with any tire. With repeater technology to keep signal from the sensors strong and notifications when you’re moving and parked, you’ll be able to keep a close eye on what’s happening without even being behind the wheel. However, in order to be able to use this TPMS for as many as 20 tires, you’ll need to purchase additional sensors separately. The kit includes your standard four sensors, which can be a little limiting if you’re hoping to install a bunch off the bat.

Our Verdict

When it comes to all-around features and clear, easy-to-read results, the TST 507 Series TPMS is the best overall monitoring system. You’ll love the convenient color display. However, if you’re on a budget, the Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a strong value option with a great price, simple installation, and theft-proof sensors. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Tire Pressure Monitoring System

While all of the TPMS options might seem similar at first glance, there can be significant differences. To find the right fit, both in the number of sensors and in the system’s capabilities, here’s what to keep an eye out for.. 

Types of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Valve Stem Caps

The most common form of tire pressure monitoring systems in the aftermarket arena consists of a head unit and four valve-stem caps. These small caps fit on your valve stems just as standard equipment stem caps do, except that they’re equipped to read the pressure pushing on the valve from within the tire. It’s like putting a stick gauge on the valve without letting any air pressure out. TPMS anti-theft design valve stem caps typically mimic the styling of regular caps, so you won’t have to worry about them attracting thieves.

Clamp In

Tire pressure monitoring systems can also be mounted within the tire against the outside of the wheel. This type of tire pressure monitoring system is often referred to as clamp-in TPMS, since it clamps to the wheel structure. Clamp-in tire pressure monitoring systems connect to the valve but monitor the pressure within the tire’s inner space. You won’t be able to tell if a vehicle is equipped with this type of tire pressure monitoring system as you would with a TPMS with valve-stem caps. 

Pricing 

Entry-range monitoring systems will cost from $50 to $100 with four sensors and streamlined features. Mid-range tire pressure monitoring systems for $125 to $200 can include extras such as color displays, additional sensors, and even smartphone app compatibility. If you’re looking for the most extensive or smartest—or you’re looking for a camper, RV, or trailer TPMS—you can expect to spend anywhere from $225 to $300 or more.

FAQs 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q: Can you install TPMS sensors yourself?

A: It’s easy to install TPMS sensors. Typically, these sensors screw right onto your tire valve stems, meaning there’s no special expertise or tools required.

Q: How long do tire pressure sensors last?

A: Each TPMS sensor has a battery inside that lasts anywhere from five to 10 years. However, you can expect the typical sensor to last about six years.

Q: Can I drive with a TPMS light on?

A: The point of using a tire pressure management system is to be alerted to potential problems with your tires. So, if you’re getting an alert or illuminated light from your TPMS, you’ll want to pull over and check your tire pressure ASAP.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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