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      03-14-2010, 06:59 PM   #6
whatbmw
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Drives: 2006 330i
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: murrieta, CA

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Quote:
Originally Posted by jmillet View Post
Your2003 Z4 has FTM not TPM.
FTM stands for the Flat Tire Monitor. As air leaks, tire pressure decreases, and the tire rotates faster. ABS sensors on the wheels detect a change in wheel rotation speeds, which signifies a change in the roll radius, or pressure level, of the tires. A warning light in the instrument panel notifies the driver of the pressure loss. In case of significant pressure loss, a warning buzzer sounds.
TPM - Tire Pressure Monitor. Basically a two piece item, a special air valve as well as a module that is on the inside of the rim and connects to the valve stem. This unit monitors the actual pressure inside the rim. (This was introduced in the 2007 model year)
On FTM-equipped cars, the valve stems are the old rubber type; on TPMS cars, they're metal.



couldn't have said it better myself- many people don't understand/realize this difference!
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