Before we dive into the specifics of how the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia TPMS works, let’s take a moment to talk about tire pressure monitoring systems in general. A TPMS is a system that monitors the air pressure inside a vehicle’s tires and alerts the driver if the pressure drops below a certain threshold. This is important because proper tire pressure is essential for safe driving. Underinflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency, cause premature tire wear, and even lead to a tire blowout.
How Does the Alfa Romeo Giulia TPMS Work
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia uses direct tire pressure sensors that are located inside each tire. (On the inside of each tire attached to the other end of the tire valve)
These sensors measure the air pressure in each tire and send the readings to the car’s computer.
The computer uses this information to determine if the tire pressure is within the acceptable range.
If the pressure in any tire drops below a certain threshold, (Around 4 PSI below the recommended level will set off the tire pressure light) the TPMS warning light will illuminate on the instrument panel.
The driver can then take action to check the tire pressure manually or take the car to a mechanic for further inspection.
Proper tire pressure is essential for safe driving, and the TPMS in the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia helps drivers stay aware of their tire pressure at all times.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Tire Pressure Light Reset Procedure
When the tire pressure light illuminates, pull over and check your tire pressure.
Determine which tire is causing the tire pressure light to go off and adjust the tires accordingly.
Always adjust tire pressures when the tires are cold to get the most accurate readings.
After adjusting tire pressures to the recommended levels, drive the vehicle.
We recommend driving the vehicle for at least a few miles over 25 mph.
If the tire light does not go off after following these steps, your tire likely has a leak or a faulty sensor, usually caused by a dying battery in the individual sensor.
What Happens When Tires are Underinflated?
When tires are underinflated it means that the air pressure inside the tire is lower than what is recommended by the manufacturer. This can lead to a variety of issues, including:
Reduced fuel efficiency: When tires are underinflated they create more rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder to move the vehicle. This will lead to reduced fuel efficiency causing increased fuel costs over time.
Premature tire wear: When tires are underinflated they wear quicker and unevenly. This will result in the need for more frequent tire replacements which equals more money.
Reduced handling and braking performance: Underinflated tires can also reduce the vehicle’s handling and braking performance, making it harder to steer and stop the car. This can be especially dangerous in emergency situations where quick and precise maneuvers are required.
Increased risk of tire blowouts: Underinflated tires are more likely to overheat which can lead to tire blowouts. This can be a dangerous situation for the driver and other motorists on the road.
Reduced overall safety: Proper tire pressure is essential for safe driving and underinflated tires can increase the risk of accidents and other safety issues.
What are Common Causes for Tire Pressure Lights to Turn On?
The tire pressure warning light can turn on for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:
Low tire pressure: The most common reason for the tire pressure warning light to turn on is low tire pressure. This can be caused by a slow leak, puncture, or natural air loss over time.
Temperature changes: Temperature changes can also cause the tire pressure to drop which will trigger the warning light. This is because air contracts in colder temperatures which will cause the tire pressure to decrease.
Faulty sensors: Sometimes tire pressure sensors themselves can malfunction, sending incorrect readings to the car’s computer and triggering the warning light. Usually faulty sensors occur when the battery in the sensor dies. The solution to this is replacing the dead sensor.
Tire damage: Damage to the tire itself such as a puncture or sidewall damage can also cause the tire pressure to drop and trigger the warning light.
Faulty TPMS system: In some cases the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself may be faulty. This can cause the warning light to turn on even when the tire pressure is within the acceptable range.