NHTSA defers final decision on direct vs. indirect tire monitoring

WASHINGTON (May 30)—Auto makers can now use either direct or indirect tire pressure monitoring systems between Nov. 1, 2003, and Oct. 31, 2006, according to the final rule issued today by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The regulation defers the agency's final long-term decision on tire pressure monitoring technology until March 1, 2005, with an effective implementation date for that technology of Nov. 1, 2006. The Rubber Manufacturers Association was still studying the standard May 30, but apparently it does nothing to answer the RMA's objection to monitoring parameters which it said would still leave motorists unwarned about significantly underinflated tires.