At some point in your driving experience, you might have come across the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light on your Mini Cooper. This light is an indication that the air pressure in one or more of your tires is too low or too high and needs adjustment. TPMS is a crucial feature in modern cars, and it helps to ensure your safety on the road. In this article, we will delve into how the 2018 Mini Cooper Tire Pressure Monitoring System works.
What is TPMS?
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a safety feature in modern cars designed to alert drivers of under-inflated or over-inflated tires. The system helps to prevent tire failure and accidents resulting from poor tire pressure. TPMS also contributes to better fuel efficiency, tire wear, and overall performance of your vehicle.
Steps to Reset Mini Cooper TPMS:
Select VEHICLE INFO via the central information display.
Select VEHICLE STATUS
Select PERFORM RESET.
Select PERFORM RESET again.
Under the speedometer, text will confirm “Resetting tire pressure monitoring system”
Once you have driven your vehicle at a speed greater than 19 mph/30 km/h for a brief period of time, the set tire inflation pressures are automatically accepted as reference values. The reset process is also automatically completed during driving. Upon successful completion of the reset, the tires will appear in green on the Control Display, and the message “Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) active” will be displayed.
How Does the Mini Cooper TPMS Work?
The 2018 Mini Cooper comes equipped with a direct TPMS that uses a sensor in each wheel to measure the tire pressure. The sensors transmit the data wirelessly to the car’s onboard computer, which then alerts the driver if the tire pressure is out of the recommended range.
The system is designed to detect a loss in tire inflation pressure by analyzing the differences in rotation speeds between the wheels while the vehicle is in motion. If there is a decrease in inflation pressure, the diameter of the affected wheel changes, resulting in a change in its rotational speed. This discrepancy is identified and reported as a flat tire. It’s important to note that the system doesn’t measure the actual inflation pressure in the tires.
Direct Vs. Indirect TPMS
The 2018 Mini Cooper uses a direct TPMS system, which is different from an indirect TPMS that uses wheel speed sensors to estimate tire pressure. A direct TPMS is more accurate than an indirect TPMS and can provide real-time tire pressure readings.
TPMS Warning Light
The TPMS warning light on your 2018 Mini Cooper dashboard indicates that one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated or over-inflated. The light may also blink if the TPMS system has detected a fault or malfunction. If the warning light turns on, you should check your tire pressure as soon as possible.
When Should you Reset your TPMS?
When replacing a tire or a set of tires
When rotating the tires
After any repair work on the tires or wheels
When the tire pressure monitor warning light illuminates on the dashboard
After storing the vehicle for an extended period of time
When installing tire chains for winter driving
Tire Pressure Monitor Maintenance
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how the 2018 Mini Cooper Tire Pressure Monitoring System works is essential for safe driving and overall vehicle performance. If you ever see the TPMS warning light on your dashboard, it’s crucial to take immediate action and adjust your tire pressure as necessary. Regular maintenance of your TPMS system can also help prevent costly repairs and ensure optimal performance.