What is the Best External TPMS?

External TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) sensors are the most popular tyre monitoring solutions for drivers and commercial fleets. Unlike internal sensors that are mounted inside the tyre, external sensors simply screw onto the tyre valve stem in place of the standard valve cap. This makes them a practical and cost-effective option for anyone wanting to monitor tyre pressure and temperature without having to take off their tyres.

Another key benefit is the use of replaceable batteries. When the battery eventually runs low, the user can simply replace it and continue using the same sensor. This reduces ongoing ownership costs and extends the life of the system compared to internal sensors, which often require the entire sensor to be replaced when the battery reaches the end of its lifespan.

When choosing external TPMS, the best must have all these features below.

Must Have Features

Replaceable Batteries

If there is one feature that separates a good external TPMS from a great one, it is replaceable batteries. External sensors are mounted outside the tyre and rely on a small battery to power the pressure and temperature monitoring electronics. Over time, every battery will eventually need replacing.

Systems with replaceable batteries allow you to simply install a new battery and continue using the same sensor. This significantly reduces long-term ownership costs and avoids the inconvenience of purchasing entirely new sensors.

Long-Lasting Batteries

Battery life is of course also important. Frequent battery changes can become frustrating, particularly on vehicles that travel long distances or spend extended periods on the road.

Look for a TPMS that has been specifically engineered for low power consumption. High-quality systems use optimised electronics and efficient wireless communication protocols to maximise battery life while still providing real-time pressure and temperature updates.

IP67-Rated Sensors

External TPMS sensors are constantly exposed to harsh conditions such as rain, dust, mud, road grime and water. This makes durability and weather resistance essential.

An IP67 rating indicates that the sensors are fully protected against dust ingress and can withstand up to 1 meter immersion in water for up to 30 minutes. This level of protection helps ensure reliable performance in all weather conditions, whether you're driving through heavy rain or travelling on dusty outback roads.

Anti-Theft Lock Nuts

Because external TPMS sensors are mounted on the outside of the wheel, security may be an important consideration. Quality systems should include anti-theft lock nuts that secure the sensors to the valve stem and make them difficult to remove without the supplied tool.

While sensor theft is very uncommon, lock nuts provide additional peace of mind when parking in public areas, caravan parks, truck stops or unattended locations. They also help prevent accidental removal and ensure the sensors remain securely attached during everyday driving and off-road travel.

10-Metre Monitoring Distance

For cars and 4WDs, transmission range is rarely an issue. However, for longer vehicles such as motorhomes and trailers, a strong wireless signal is essential.

A TPMS should be capable of reliably transmitting data over distances of up to 10 metres between the sensors and the display unit. This ensures accurate and consistent tyre pressure and temperature monitoring. Systems with insufficient transmission range can experience signal dropouts resulting in missing tyre data and reduced confidence in the monitoring system.

Fully Certified to Australian Standards

When purchasing a TPMS, it's important to choose a system that complies with relevant Australian certification requirements. Certified products have undergone testing to ensure they meet local standards for safety, electromagnetic compatibility and wireless communications.

This certification helps ensure the TPMS operates reliably without interfering with other electronic equipment and provides confidence that the product has been designed for use in Australian conditions. Choosing a fully certified system also helps avoid potential issues associated with untested or non-compliant imported products - giving you greater assurance in the quality and reliability of your investment.