Nissan Brings New Twist To Tire Pressure Monitors
Starting in 2013 automaker’s smart TPMS system warns driver of low tires pressures then assists in inflating to proper pressure with horn honking
A new federal study shows underinflated tires triple drivers risk of an accident, so it’s timely that Nissan recently introduced the “Easy Fill Tire Alert” system on its 2013 Altima.
It’s a way to help motorists maintain optimum tire pressure and it comes standard in all 2013 Nissan Altima models. Nissan Titans shouldn’t be far behind.
“I think a lot of people probably don’t think about tire pressure. I didn’t, and so this is a good system to have,” said Nissan customer Evan Galin.
When the tire-pressure warning system alerts a driver to a low tire, a display shows the pressure and the relevant tire or tires. Then the driver should drop into a nearby gas station and grab the air hose.
As the driver fills the tire, the car’s four-way flashers come on to confirm that air is going in. When the tire is full, the horn chirps to let the driver know the process is complete.
“I don’t feel like I know what I’m doing unless I have something telling me that it’s right, so this is good,” said Galin.
If the driver puts in too much air, the flashers blink faster and the horn beeps three times. The horn chirps again after enough air is let out to reach proper inflation.
“It’s one of those simple slap your forehead moments, as to why someone has not thought of it before,” said Vishnu Jayamohan with Nissan Product Planning and Advanced Strategy.
Some people don’t keep a tire gauge in their glove box, or, they or have trouble using them. And professionals say that from one tire gauge to another you can easily have a three or four pound difference in air pressure readings.
“Easy-fill Tire Alert” eliminates both the guessing and the gauge.
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