Will tire pressure warning system effect trucks?

July 26, 2001
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is proposing a new federal motor vehicle safety standard requiring the installation of tire pressure monitoring systems in passenger cars, light trucks and other vehicles with GVW ratings of 10,000 pounds or less. The question now is whether this standard will eventually be applied to heavier vehicles, including tractor-trailers. While the
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is proposing a new federal motor vehicle safety standard requiring the installation of tire pressure monitoring systems in passenger cars, light trucks and other vehicles with GVW ratings of 10,000 pounds or less. The question now is whether this standard will eventually be applied to heavier vehicles, including tractor-trailers.

While the rulemaking is limited to vehicles under 10,000 pounds GVW, legislation passed last year by Congress mandates that a similar system be developed for heavier vehicles. Section 13 of the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act, passed last November, requires that medium- and heavy-duty commercial trucks and trailers to have a system installed that warns drivers of ‘significant’ low tire pressure. NHTSA is required under the act to have a final rule in effect two years after it begins the rulemaking process.

NHTSA’s notice seeks comment on two alternative versions of the regulation. One rule would require a warning when the pressure in one or more tires (up to a total of four) has fallen 20% or more below the vehicle manufacturer's recommended cold inflation level. The other alternative would require a warning when tire pressure in one or more tires (up to a total of three) has fallen 25% or more below the vehicle manufacturer's recommended cold inflation level.

NHTSA estimates that between 49 and 79 deaths and 6,585 to 10,635 injuries could be prevented each year if all vehicles were equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. For the next 45 days, the public may submit comments in writing to: Docket Section, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20590. Comments can also be submitted electronically.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!