Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)
Tyre pressure monitoring keeps an eye on the air pressure in your tyres and warns you, usually with a dashboard light, when one drops too low. It is an early warning for a slow puncture or a tyre quietly losing air before it becomes a real problem.
Correct pressure matters more than people realise. An under-inflated tyre handles worse, wears out faster, uses more fuel, and is more likely to fail at speed — so catching a drop early is both a safety and a cost benefit.
If the light comes on, do not ignore it. Find somewhere safe to check the tyres, look for an obvious puncture or damage, and inflate to the correct pressure (often listed on a label in the door frame) at the next station. If a tyre keeps losing air, it needs proper attention.
For a renter it is a useful safety feature, particularly before a long drive. If the warning appears soon after pickup, mention it to the rental company — it may simply need topping up, or it may flag a tyre that should be checked before you set off.
Related terms
Spare Tyre
A replacement wheel carried in the car to fit if you get a puncture, along with the jack and tools.
Tyre Repair Kit (Foam)
A sealant-and-compressor kit that temporarily plugs a small puncture instead of changing the wheel.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
The umbrella term for electronic aids that help you drive more safely — braking, steering and warning systems.
