On Friday, November 7, 2014 2:24:09 PM UTC-5, Vic Smith wrote:
On Fri, 07 Nov 2014 10:12:51 -0800, SMS
wrote:



I like the TPMS on cars where the driver is unlikely to ever check the
tire pressure.

Is that your car? I don't have TPMS on my car, but I keep a tire
gauge in my glovebox, and occasionally check all tires.
If leakage is excessive I get it fixed. That seldom happens.
If I had TPMS and it worked, I would do the same, less the check.
I haven't had trouble with tire wear.

Sensors are going to be used in increasing number on
vehicles and machinery for faults and to indicate when maintenance is
actually necessary (versus the present system of basing maintenance
mainly on time or miles).

Oil change is the only one on my car. What others are available?
I don't understand this sudden interest in nitrogen.
Tire Rack says:
"Overall, inflating tires with nitrogen won't hurt them and may
provide some minimal benefits."
"Rather than pay extra for nitrogen, most drivers would be better off
buying an accurate tire pressure gauge and checking and adjusting
their tire pressures regularly."

Doubt I'll ever put nitrogen in my tires.
None of the "minimal benefits" even apply to me, or most drivers.
But if it's free I won't turn it down.

And here's what Michelin says:

"Nitrogen Versus Compressed Air

Most tires are filled with compressed air. But some tire retailers have started to put nitrogen into their customers' tires. (Nitrogen is simply dry air with the oxygen removed. Air contains nearly 79% nitrogen already.) Because nitrogen replaces oxygen, less air can escape your tires, and your inflation pressure stays higher longer. Unfortunately, there are other possible sources of leaks (tire/rim interface, valve, valve/rim interface and the wheel) which prevent the guarantee of pressure maintenance for individuals using air or nitrogen inflation.

Nitrogen and compressed air CAN be mixed, if needed. Tires manufactured by Michelin are designed to deliver their expected performance when inflated with air or nitrogen, as long as the user respects the pressures recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle's placard or by the tire manufacturer."

Not exactly a ringing endorsement either.