Michelin receives mixed responses over TPMS introduction

ERJ staff report (LMH)

Stoke-on-Trent, UK -- Michelin has received mixed responses from three of the UK's largest tyre distributors after asking for views on the introduction of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) later this year.

Michelin wrote to ATS Euromaster, Kwik Fit and National Tyres asking how they intend to manage TPMS, following concern from members of the Michelin Fleet Panel about how the new legislation will affect vehicle maintenance costs.

All three distributors said they are running pilot schemes to ensure centres are equipped with the relevant equipment, as well as staff training programmes ahead of the introduction of the legislation in November 2012.

But there are mixed views on the impact TPMS will have on fleets.

ATS Euromaster said it believes the introduction of TPMS is likely to have less of an impact for fleets than consumers as the sensors have a projected lifespan of between five and seven years so servicing costs are likely to impact on second and third-life vehicle owners.

“Looking specifically at the cost implications for business fleets, we expect these to have less of an impact. The fact that fleets typically replace their cars on a three to five year lifecycle - and most TPMS sensors have a projected lifespan of five to seven years - means the largest element of the servicing cost is likely to borne by second and third-life vehicle owners, who will need to replace the sensors during this five to seven year window,” said ATS Euromaster Group Sales Director Peter Fairlie.

But National Tyres said lessons from America where TPMS was introduced in 2006, show that a four to five year estimated lifespan is more realistic.

“In theory, it was thought sensor valve batteries would last up to seven years. However the reality from the USA experience, where TPMS was introduced in 2006, is that many fail prematurely due to corrosion or damage, high mileage, or if repeated deflation takes place, four to five years' life is the norm,” commented National Tyres' Group Managing Director for National Tyres, Kevin Parker.

Peter Lambert, Fleet Sales Director for Kwik-Fit, added: “Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems are an important vehicle safety aid. The fact they will become a standard feature on all new cars over the next two years means that it is essential that we are able to offer a service to customers that checks the systems are working correctly and rectify those that are not.

Michelin said it was grateful for the comprehensive responses it received and said it is reassuring to know that all three tyre distributors are well prepared to maintain and replace the systems.

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Press release from Michelin