Copy of Tyre Pressure Monitoring in African Fleets: Safer, Smarter, Longer-Lasting Tyres

Tyres Without Borders
Nov 28, 2025
3 min read

Fleet management is evolving — and in Africa, the stakes are high. Between scorching heat, rough terrain, and long hauls across remote regions, tyres are exposed to constant stress. Blowouts, downtime, and uneven wear are common — but avoidable.

Enter Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS): a tool that's transforming how African operators manage tyre health across tractors, haul trucks, graders, and transport fleets. Whether you're running a farm operation or a mining fleet, TPMS could save you thousands — and keep your team safer.

How to Implement Tyre Pressure Monitoring Across Your Fleet

Step 1: Understand Why Pressure Matters in Africa

Inconsistent tyre pressure leads to:

Faster wear: Over-inflation causes centre wear; under-inflation damages sidewalls.
Higher fuel costs: Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance.
More breakdowns: Heat + low pressure = blowouts.
Reduced load stability: Uneven tyres can lead to tipping or loss of control on gravel or slope.

Especially in hot climates, pressure fluctuates throughout the day. What’s “correct” in the morning can become dangerously high or low by afternoon.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of TPMS for Your Equipment

You have two main options:

Direct TPMS:
- Sensors inside the tyre or valve-mounted
- Accurate, real-time pressure and temperature data
- Best for heavy-duty, off-road, or high-risk fleets
Indirect TPMS:
- Estimates pressure using ABS or wheel speed
- Less accurate on uneven terrain
- Lower cost but not ideal for rugged or agricultural use

For most African farms and fleets, direct TPMS is the better fit due to accuracy and durability.

Step 3: Select TPMS Systems Designed for Harsh Environments

Look for features like:

Dustproof and waterproof build (IP67 or higher)
Compatibility with your existing tyres and rims
Visual + audible alerts in the cab or on mobile
Support for temperature monitoring as well as pressure
Integration with fleet dashboards (optional)

Some systems also offer remote access or cloud-based insights — useful for larger operators managing multiple locations.

Step 4: Train Drivers and Maintenance Staff

TPMS is only effective if your team knows how to use it:

Show drivers how alerts work and when to stop
Train your mechanic team to check sensors and review data
Update pressure baselines as seasons and loads change
Reinforce that early alerts save tyres and reduce cost

Step 5: Monitor Performance and Improve Over

Time

Once TPMS is installed:

Track tyre lifespan before and after
Watch for trends — which routes or loads cause most alerts?
Use pressure data to adjust load distribution or rotation intervals
Schedule regular check-ins to clean sensors and verify function

Over time, TPMS becomes a tool for preventive tyre strategy, not just emergency alerts.

FAQ: Tyre Pressure Monitoring in Africa

1. What does a TPMS system cost?

Basic direct systems range from $40–$80 per tyre. Fleet-wide or ruggedised versions cost more but offer a stronger return on investment.

2. Can I retrofit TPMS to older vehicles?

Yes. Most systems are designed for aftermarket installation and can be added during regular servicing.

3. What if my vehicles operate in low-connectivity areas?

Most TPMS systems work offline — syncing when signal is available. Alerts are local (in-vehicle), so no network is needed for safety.

4. Does TPMS require different tyres?

No. But it works best with compatible valves and tyre types. Tyres Without Borders can advise on sensor-ready BKT models.

5. Will TPMS eliminate all tyre failures?

Not completely — but it drastically reduces risks by catching problems early. It’s a proactive layer of protection, not a substitute for regular checks.