ALLIGATOR SENS.IT RETROFIT-KIT (INTERNAL)

Price: £210 Available from: TPMS Warehouse www.tpmswarehouse.co.uk 01254 495873

Apart from the price, there is much to like in this German offering. The internal sensors operate to a maximum 116psi (most sensors tested can tolerate only 100psi) and the units themselves are very small, which should make them easier to install on smaller-diameter wheel rims, especially those fitted to retro, or classic cars. We also appreciated the quick and easy set-up and found the pressure readings were accurate. Considering the high price, we were disappointed that we had to download English instructions (although a German text leaflet was supplied) and the non-solar display looks and feels cheap and old-fashioned, a factor not helped by rigid rubber buttons that required very firm pressure be applied. Real-time air temperature is not provided alongside the pressure readouts and you have to remember to switch-on the unit manually, once the head-unit powers down automatically to preserve its (replaceable) battery after your vehicle has been parked. Furthermore, we felt the audible and visual pressure warnings were not adequate to inform the driver of an emergency.

It’s a shame this sophisticated and expensive kit is let down badly by its low-grade display unit.