Can I drive with the TPMS light on?
The short answer is that it is generally not recommended to drive with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light on. The TPMS light indicates that there is an issue with the tire pressure in one or more of your vehicle's tires, and it's important to address this problem as soon as possible.
What is the TPMS Light?
The TPMS light is a warning indicator on your vehicle's dashboard that illuminates when the tire pressure in one or more of your tires falls below the recommended level. This system is designed to alert drivers to potential tire pressure issues, which can affect the vehicle's handling, fuel efficiency, and overall safety.
Why Should I Address a TPMS Light?
Driving with the TPMS light on can be dangerous for several reasons:
- Reduced Handling and Stability: Underinflated tires can cause the vehicle to handle poorly, making it more difficult to steer and control, especially in emergency situations.
- Increased Wear and Tear: Driving on underinflated tires can cause them to wear out more quickly, leading to the need for premature tire replacement.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which can result in decreased fuel efficiency and higher fuel costs.
- Increased Risk of Blowouts: Severely underinflated tires are more susceptible to blowouts, which can be extremely dangerous and lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.
For these reasons, it's important to address the TPMS light as soon as possible to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your vehicle.
What Should I Do if the TPMS Light is On?
If the TPMS light is illuminated on your dashboard, you should take the following steps:
- Check the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare, using a reliable tire pressure gauge.
- Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure level, which can be found in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker.
- If the TPMS light remains on after inflating the tires, there may be a more serious issue with the TPMS system itself, and you should have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic.
By addressing the TPMS light promptly and ensuring your tires are properly inflated, you can help maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.
How long can you drive with a TPMS light?
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.
How much should 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.
How serious is TPMS 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 reset my TPMS myself?
Hold the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times, then release it. Start the car and wait about 20 minutes for the sensor to refresh. You will find the tire pressure monitor reset button under the steering wheel. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual if you can't find it.
Is the TPMS light urgent?
If your TPMS light is on, you need to pull over immediately, determine which tire is low and change it – or have a service pro change it for you. Then, get that tire repaired as soon as possible. Don't wait or try to drive to a service station – pull over as soon as safely possible and get it changed!
Will my TPMS reset itself?
Direct TPMS systems reset automatically after tire inflation or rotation. You do need to have these sensors resynchronized when you get new tires, which requires a special tool.
Can I ignore the TPMS light?
Ignoring the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is not advisable. The TPMS is designed to enhance your safety by alerting you to low tire pressure. Ignoring it can lead to severe consequences, such as accidents, increased tire wear, and reduced fuel efficiency.
Is it okay to drive with a bad TPMS sensor?
Yes, you can drive with a bad Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor, but it is not advisable. A malfunctioning TPMS sensor may not accurately monitor tire pressure, which can lead to under-inflated or over-inflated tires.
Should I drive if my tire pressure light is on?
This is why you should maintain proper inflation pressure and try to avoid driving when the TPMS light is on. If you absolutely must drive a short distance on a tire with severely low pressure, drive very slowly and use extreme caution. The tire should be inflated or changed before driving anywhere.
Why is my tire pressure light on but my 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.
