New warning lights on your vehicle’s dashboard are never fun, but they usually come on for a reason, and you should never ignore them. The TPMS light, also known as the tire pressure light, alerts you when your tire pressure is too low, which can lead to uneven tire wear or even failure.
At Big Chief Tire, we prioritize your safety on the road. Understanding what causes the light to come on and what steps to take when it does helps you stay safe, extend the life of your tires, and improve your ride’s performance. Next time your vehicle’s TPMS light comes on, here is what you need to know.
What is the TPMS Light and How Does it Work?
When the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light appears on your dashboard, it means one or more of your tires is not properly inflated.
When working correctly, your TPMS constantly monitors tire pressure using factors such as temperature and wheel speed. If your tire pressure becomes too high or too low, the TPMS sensor sends a signal activating the warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard.
Tire pressure that falls below or rises above 25% of the recommended inflation level triggers your car’s TPMS sensors. The light will remain on until tire pressure automatically returns to normal, or the problematic tire is repaired.
Common Reasons Your Tire Pressure Light Turns On
There are several reasons why your tire pressure light may come on.
- Temperature changes – As temperatures drop, the air inside your tires contracts, which can cause pressure to fall below the recommended level. Sometimes the tire pressure light will turn off on its own once the tires warm up during driving, but it’s still a good idea to check the pressure.
- Low tire pressure or leaks – If the TPMS light stays on for a prolonged period, you may have a slow leak. Nails, rocks, or small road debris are common causes. It is important to check your tire pressure with a gauge immediately after the warning light comes on to avoid damage to your vehicle or compromised road safety.
- Aging or failing sensors – TPMS sensors help keep you safe, but they don’t last forever. They use small, sealed lithium batteries that typically last 5-10 years. How do you know when they’re near the end of their life? If your system fails to reset after a tire rotation or you’re seeing a persistent warning message in your dashboard, then it may be time to replace the sensor.
When your tire pressure light comes on, check each tire’s pressure and have it refilled at your nearest gas station or auto repair shop. The team at Big Chief Tire offers comprehensive tire services, including TPMS replacements, rebuild kits, and resetting the TPMS sensor, ensuring you’re always ready at the first sign of trouble. If the problem persists, seek professional help to find a solution and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Why the TPMS Light Matters for Safety
While the TPMS light can sometimes resolve on its own due to temperature fluctuations, it should never be ignored. Here are a few ways the TPMS light helps keep you safe on the road:
Blowout prevention
Low air pressure is one of the most common causes of tire blowouts. When your tires are underinflated, they struggle to support your vehicle’s weight, and the increased friction and heat increase your risk of a blowout. The TPMS light is a warning sign that your tire pressure may be too low.
Fuel efficiency
A leak in your tire can reduce your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Why? When your tires are underinflated, your vehicle has to work harder to keep the tires moving, burning more fuel in the process. By monitoring your tire pressure with your TPMS, you can help improve fuel efficiency and save money at the pump.
Tire longevity
On average, a well-maintained set of tires can last about 60,000 miles. However, driving on underinflated tires can result in uneven or faster wear. Checking your tire pressure is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do, and your TPMS helps by alerting you when one or more tires fall below safe levels.
Don’t Ignore Your TPMS Light
The TPMS light is an essential tool that indicates the need to check your tires before bigger problems arise. When you see this warning sign, don’t wait to find a solution. At Big Chief Tire, our team is here to help. We handle all aspects of TPMS maintenance and repair. Visit us for a tire pressure check and TPMS inspection. Schedule an appointment at any of our locations today.
