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When it comes to tire safety, one of the best investments you can make is buying an RV TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System). Initially, we were unsure if this type of product would be worth it, considering the high cost.
However, we have changed our tune since living full-time. We firmly believe an RV TPMS is one of the first safety items you should buy for your RV.
Personally, ours has saved our bacon at least three times. It’s been fantastic to have a heads-up about potential tire issues before a blowout happens!
Today, we’re sharing the best RV tire pressure monitoring systems worth every penny. They have a proven track record and can get the job done. Let’s take a look!
What Is an RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)?
An RV tire pressure monitoring system monitors the air pressure and temperature of tires on recreational vehicles. The system typically includes sensors attached to each tire’s valve stems. These sensors transmit data to a display unit mounted inside the vehicle.
The TPMS alerts the driver when the tire pressure falls below or exceeds a safe operating range. This typically indicates the potential risk of a blowout or other tire-related issues.
It also monitors the temperature of the tires, as high temperatures can be a problem. Increased temperatures can indicate overloading, under-inflation, or other potential issues.
These devices provide the driver with real-time information on the condition of their tires. You can avoid accidents and extend the life of your tires by using a TPMS. Drivers can enjoy improved fuel efficiency, reduced tire wear, and enhanced safety.
Is a TPMS Necessary for an RV?
There’s no legal requirement for a driver to utilize a TPMS. However, it’s a device that we strongly recommend every RVer own and use. When used properly, these devices are incredibly effective at monitoring tires.
As mentioned, we always use a TPMS during our adventures.
These systems are constantly monitoring the status of your tires. The instant your tires experience unsafe operating conditions, they’ll alert you. An alert could indicate an issue with the pressure or temperature of the tires. However, it could give you time to find a safe place to investigate the situation.
If you’ve never seen the damage caused to an RV tire blowout, it’s pretty gnarly. They can easily do thousands of dollars in damage to your camper and derail any upcoming travel plans. Trust us; you want to avoid them at all costs.
Can I Install an RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System?
If your RV did not come with a tire pressure monitoring system, it’s possible to add one. Direct tire pressure monitoring systems utilize sensors on the valve stem of each tire. They monitor the temperature and pressure of each tire as the vehicle rolls down the highway.
The data from the sensors gets transmitted to a display unit inside the vehicle. Depending on the system, this could be an app on a smartphone or a designated display. Either way, the data is very accurate and reliable.
For those owners of long RVs, it’s essential to consider the range of the sensors. Some can’t transmit a strong enough signal to reach inside the vehicle. This can result in false alarms and dropped signals.
Benefits of Using an RV TPMS
Using an RV TPMS offers several benefits that can help improve the safety and performance of your rig. By monitoring tire pressure in real-time, the TPMS can alert you to potential issues before they become serious. You can take action and avoid dangerous situations on the road.
In addition to improving safety, an RV TPMS can help reduce tire wear and improve fuel efficiency. Improper inflation causes uneven wear and can cause your MPGs to tank. If you’re pinching your pennies, properly inflating your tires is one way to make them last.
Disadvantages of Using an RV TPMS
While there are many benefits to using an RV TPMS, there are also a few potential disadvantages. One major disadvantage is the upfront cost. A quality TPMS can be relatively expensive and cost several hundred dollars. Additionally, you may need to replace sensors periodically.
Another disadvantage is that some systems experience false alarms. These can be frustrating and potentially distracting while driving. This can occur if you do not install the sensors correctly or if there are issues with the signal transmission.
The Best RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Buying an RV tire pressure monitoring system is an investment. If you want to save money, buy a reputable brand. For us, TireMinder is as good as it gets. Ours has yet to disappoint us, and we wouldn’t consider any other options.
Best: TireMinder A1AS RV TPMS
It doesn’t get much better than the TireMinder A1AS RV TPMS. We previously used the A1A and didn’t hesitate to upgrade to the A1AS when available. There’s not one thing we don’t like about this device.
One of our favorite features is getting the readings on the color display and your phone. With the previous model, we had to use the TireMinder display. Receiving alerts on our phones reduces the chances of missing an alert.
We’ve also noticed that the A1AS has a much more stable signal. We would randomly lose data with the previous model and need to reset the device. However, we’ve yet to lose signal to a tire while using the A1AS. Knowing you have a solid connection can give you confidence in the readings.
Some of our favorite features for the A1AS are the massive 5.5″ color display, the incredible accuracy, and that it comes with a three-year warranty. These essential features made the decision easy when it came time to upgrade.
- Large 5.5" Color LCD
- Checks for the following tire issues every 6 seconds: slow leaks, rapid leaks, blowouts, low pressure, high pressure and...
Better: TireMinder Smart RV TPMS
The TireMinder Smart is an innovative TPMS designed for RVs that can easily connect to smartphones and tablets. This model is compatible with iOS and Android devices and has a Bluetooth adapter that converts 433 MHz transmitter data into a Bluetooth signal.
With the TireMinder Smart, you can conveniently monitor your RV tire pressure and temperature from your smartphone or tablet.
This is an excellent option for those who don’t want to clutter their dash with another device and more wires. Eliminating the display helps keep costs down while delivering a high-quality tire pressure monitoring system.
- Compatible with iPhone, iPad and android devices (requires IOS 7+ or android 4.3+ with Bluetooth 4.0+)
- Checks for the following tire issues every 6 seconds: slow leaks, rapid leaks, blowouts, low pressure, high pressure and...
Good: TireMinder i10 RV TPMS
The TireMinder i10 is affordable for those looking for a reliable TPMS. This model can display up to 10 tires simultaneously, automatically switching between the front (truck) and rear (towable) vehicles.
It’s perfect for those who want to improve their safety on the road without breaking the bank. It’s one of the most user-friendly systems on the market. You’ll be up and running in a matter of minutes. Since it carries the TireMinder name, you can trust it to get the job done.
- Package Dimensions: 24.8 H x 7.1 L x 18.6 W (centimetres)
- Monitors up to four different vehicles
RV TPMS Installation
Installing an RV tire pressure monitoring system is extremely easy. In most cases, you turn on the display, screw on a sensor, and then program the display to tell it which tire the sensor is on. Next, repeat for each tire, and you’re good to go!
How to Buy a TireMinder TPMS
While you can find RV TPMS devices on Amazon, we’ve noticed the prices seem to fluctuate. Personally, we got ours from Innovation Tire.
The delivery was fast, and we love that they have install videos on their website for newbies. Additionally, they offer free shipping in the US and a flat $30 shipping fee for Canada.
Lastly, if you purchase through their website, you can get $20 off any TPMS by using the code “GETAWAY20“.
Maximize Safety with an RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Choosing the best RV tire pressure monitoring system is essential for the safety and longevity of your RV’s tires. A reliable TPMS helps you monitor the tire pressure and temperature in real-time. It can alert you to any potential issues before they cause a blowout or other dangerous situations on the road.
These systems can be expensive, but they’re worth every penny. You can never take safety too seriously when you’re on the road. This is one area where we encourage people to avoid trying to save a buck.
Speaking of safety, have you read our article about Building Your Perfect RV Emergency Kit?
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We use the EezTire system. It’s been a very good system with no issues. Great peace of mind knowing we have it.
I just happened to pick our new TPMS up at the front door from Amazon. I went with the Tymate M12-3 with six sensors to install on our 5th wheel trailer. I have never had any tire issues since we bought our trailer but installed new tires a week ago as our originals had aged out. I wanted to have the peace of mind of knowing my tires are not loosing air driving down the road. We will be heading to Zion this week so will see how the TPMS performs.
We use a TST tpms system. My biggest concerns are: 1) tire pressure changes so fast in the Spring and Fall that we get false readings shortly after starting with cold tires, as they warm up; and 2) The rubber holder designed to adhere to and sit on the dash, bounces the monitor off and out to the floor.
Knowing what we know now, I do wish we had purchased flow thru sensors, just for ease of fillimng and adjusting air pressure…
Pat & Cindi OConnor
in NoMo
Hi Jason,
Yes, I bought a TPMS after our 2nd trip. I use a TST system on our GD Reflection 5th wheel aNd I’m very pleased with its performance and accuracy.
We have an older EEZTIRE tire. It works great for us. We have never had really any tire problems on any of our 5er. When we bought our last Montana in 2017 the first thing we did was to upgrade to Sailuns. I put them on ore older Montana and loved them.
Jason,
We have the A1A Tireminder and own a Refelection 337RLS 5th whl. Where did you mount the “”booster” box and where did you pick up the positive current? I would like to install the booster in a permanent location.