Can I drive with a blinking tire pressure light?
As a car owner, you may have experienced the anxiety that comes with dashboard warning lights. One of the most common alerts is the tire pressure light, which can sometimes blink. Understanding what this means and how to respond is crucial for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. In this article, we will explore the implications of a blinking tire pressure light and what steps you should take.
What Does a Blinking Tire Pressure Light Indicate?
A blinking tire pressure light typically indicates a more serious issue than just low tire pressure. Here are the primary reasons why your tire pressure light may be blinking:
- Severe Tire Pressure Drop: A rapid loss of air in one or more tires can trigger the light. This could be due to a puncture or a significant leak.
- TPMS Malfunction: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) itself may be malfunctioning, which can cause the light to blink.
- Temperature Changes: Sudden changes in temperature can affect tire pressure, but if the light is blinking, it usually indicates a more urgent issue.
Is It Safe to Drive with a Blinking Tire Pressure Light?
Driving with a blinking tire pressure light is generally not safe. Here’s why:
- Risk of Tire Blowout: If the light indicates a severe drop in tire pressure, continuing to drive can lead to a tire blowout, which can be dangerous.
- Handling Issues: Low tire pressure can affect your vehicle's handling and braking, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Potential Damage: Ignoring the warning can lead to further damage to your tires and possibly other components of your vehicle.
What Should You Do If Your Tire Pressure Light Is Blinking?
If you notice a blinking tire pressure light, follow these steps:
- Pull Over Safely: As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over to a secure location.
- Check Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all tires, including the spare if applicable.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for any visible signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges in the tires.
- Consult a Professional: If you are unsure or if the light remains on after checking the tires, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection.
Conclusion
In summary, a blinking tire pressure light is a serious warning that should not be ignored. It is essential to take immediate action to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and checks can help prevent such issues, but when they arise, being informed and proactive is key.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lowest tire pressure you can drive on?
20 PSI
Tire pressure between 32 to 35 PSI is suitable for most vehicles. However, one can go as low as 20 PSI (although that is not recommended). Anything below 20 PSI is considered a flat tire. PSI stands for pounds per square inch.
How much does it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor?
In the event TPMS sensors need to be replaced, the cost can range from approximately $50-$100 each depending on vehicle type.
Why is my tire pressure light blinking and then solid?
A TPMS warning light that illuminates solid and remains solid usually means that one or more of the tires has low air pressure and needs to be inflated to the correct placard pressure. However, a light that flashes for 60-90 seconds and then illuminates solid is signaling that there is a problem with the TPMS system.
Is it okay to drive with slightly low tire pressure?
Driving With Low Tire Pressure Can Be Dangerous
The most dangerous issue caused by driving with low tire pressure is a tire blowout. As mentioned, under-inflated tire sidewalls flex more than usual and cause heat to build up.
Can a tire pressure light be false?
False Light: Sometimes, the TPMS sensor itself is acting up. It might be sending false warnings or incorrect pressure readings. Low Battery: Some TPMS sensors have their own batteries that need replacing every few years. If they've fizzled out, the system can go haywire.
How long can I drive after the tire pressure light comes on?
You don't need to pull over immediately if you see it come on, but you should take action as soon as possible. If you're on the highway or in heavy traffic, it's generally safe to drive for a short distance (a few miles at most) to find a safe place to pull over and check your tires.
Why is my low tire pressure light on but tires are fine?
One of the most common reasons for a TPMS light staying on despite the tires being properly inflated is a sensor malfunction. TPMS sensors are typically located inside the tire and can wear out or become damaged over time, particularly if you've hit a curb, driven through a pothole, or been off-road.
How urgent is the tire pressure light?
WHAT IT MEANS & WHAT YOU NEED TO DO. The purpose of the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is to alert you when tire pressure is too low and could create unsafe driving conditions. If the light is illuminated, it means your tires could be underinflated, which can lead to undue tire wear and possible tire failure.
Can I drive 20 minutes with low tire pressure?
If your TPMS has indicated low tire pressure, your vehicle is not considered safe to drive. We recommend pulling over and checking your tire pressure as soon as you're able. And if you aren't able to do so right away, then try to find a safe place to stop as soon as possible.
Where is the TPMS reset button?
Set the parking brake. Look for a button to the left of the steering column labeled with the TPMS icon if it's there push and hold it until the TPMS indicator in the instrument panel blinks twice.
