Concerns Related to FMVSS No. 138 “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems” and Potential Implementation of a Similar Standard on Commercial Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) realizes that medium and heavy vehicles have different issues than passenger vehicles with respect to tire pressure monitoring. The NHTSA did not have time during the one year deadline imposed by the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act to address these complex concerns in its rulemaking.¹ This paper explores the unique concerns that accompany commercial vehicle tire pressure monitoring and management that must be considered before a potential regulation for the commercial vehicle industry can be implemented successfully.