What Does the TPMS Warning Light Indicate?

Normally, starting the car in the morning is a worry-free task. The vehicle's dash lights up with dashing gauges and warning symbols, but after a few minutes, it all simmers down. Sometimes, a few of those lights stay on, indicating something is amiss. A warning light is definitely a telltale sign that a specific part of your car needs attention.

One of these warning lights is the TPMS.

What is the TPMS?

The acronym stands for tire pressure monitoring system. When this warning light is on, it informs you that one or more of your tires has either very little or too much air pressure. It is a system that monitors your vehicle's tire pressure.

What are the effects of low or high tire pressure?

It is easy to simply ignore a somewhat small issue, isn't it? Well, you shouldn't. There is a host of adverse effects brought about by low or high tire pressure, such as:

  • Increased tire wear
  • Low fuel economy and poor traction
  • Reduced payload and towing capability
  • Increased risk of a blowout or flat tire

The above effects negate the common misconception that overinflated tires are more responsive and have greater fuel efficiency. Overinflation causes a detriment to your tires and endangers your safety.

What are the benefits of proper tire pressure?

Maintaining proper tire pressure has immense benefits, which include:

  • Longer tire lifespan which increases your savings
  • Better handling and control when driving
  • Improved water dispersion during all weather

How do you fix a TPMS warning light?

An easy way to get rid of the blinking TPMS warning light is to go by a service station to either release or fill your tires to the proper inflation level. The right inflation level for your tires is marked on a white and yellow label inside the driver's side door. The level displayed is for cold air temperature. Therefore, you should give your wheels a few minutes to cool off.

How do you know you have a bad TPMS sensor?

In different parts of the country, it is normal for the TPMS light to light up then disappear due to the varying morning and afternoon temperatures. When the TPMS warning light blinks rapidly and doesn't disappear or stay stable, the system itself is malfunctioning.

It is essential to keep an eye on the seemingly inconsequential looking lights on your dashboard. They could be the difference between your destination and your journey. Bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop today for TPMS repair.