Should I Get a Tire-Pressure Monitoring System for My RV?

Should I Get a Tire-Pressure Monitoring System for My RV?
How a TPMS works, plus tips for installation and use.
By: GoLife Staff

Many RVers swear by their tire-pressure monitoring system as a way to stay safe out on the roads. These devices allow you to easily check your tire pressure and can help you detect a leak – which could prevent a dangerous tire blowout. While manually checking your tires is also an option (and something you should still do on occasion even with a TPMS), it is often one of those tasks that is easy to forget. And if not done regularly while driving your RV, you could miss a potential issue. 

Although safety is the main concern, properly inflated tires can actually add to your fuel economy and extend tire life as well! Your RV insurance may even give you a policy discount for adding a TPMS – definitely worth checking into if you purchase one.

Types of Tire-Pressure Monitoring Systems & How they Work

There are many options for tire-pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) available for purchase, however, they usually come in two types: direct or indirect.

The main difference between direct and indirect TPMS is that one has a sensor that is actually directly attached to the tire and the other uses the tire rotational speed to infer any issues with low pressure (not as accurate, but still can give a warning).

Direct TPMS measures the air pressure directly from the tire and, since it is mounted to the valve stem or inside the tire, it may involve help from a professional to install. However, some can be as simple to install as replacing the valve stem cap with one that has a sensor.

Additionally, there are options made specifically for a TOAD (tow vehicle) or travel trailer. TPMS also vary with how they integrate with the vehicle’s system, what data they provide, how they display information, and – of course – cost (with a range of $50 to $500+).

Some popular brands of TPMS among RVers include:

• Tymate has a TPMS that is automatically solar-charged and offers multiple setting options. At about $160 on Amazon, it is one of the lower-cost options.
• EEZ RV Products makes a TPMS that is often mentioned by RV bloggers as a go-to. However, these cost around $300 or more depending on the option you choose.
• TST has a cap-system TPMS that is also rated well, but it is also pricier – from about $350 to $500+, depending on how many sensors you need.

(Note: These are not official Winnebago suggestions, just popular options).

Tips for TPMS Installation & Use

Now that you’ve picked a tire-pressure monitoring system, it is time to get it set up and start using it.

Here are some tips for doing both: 

• Depending on the TPMS you choose, you may need to have a professional installation or have a professional help with part of the process (ex: adding dually valve stem extenders). You may want to price out installation before choosing your TPMS.
• Always keep tires at optimal inflation based on the owner's manual and RV weight, etc.
• Be sure to read the manual of your TPMS to adjust settings in order to get the most out of using it. Most allow you to put in the optimum tire pressure and set specific alarms.
• Make sure you still do visual tire checks regularly even with a TPMS since system errors and inconsistencies can occur.

We hope this article was helpful! And for more RVing tips, check out our other RV education articles!