Is it OK to drive with tire pressure light on?
As a car owner, you may have experienced the unsettling moment when the tire pressure warning light illuminates on your dashboard. This light, part of your vehicle's Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), is designed to alert you to potential issues with your tires. But is it safe to continue driving when this light is on? Let’s explore the implications and what you should do if this happens.
What Does the Tire Pressure Light Mean?
The tire pressure light indicates that one or more of your tires may be underinflated or overinflated. Proper tire pressure is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. When the TPMS detects a significant deviation from the recommended pressure, it triggers the warning light to alert you.
Why Driving with the Tire Pressure Light On Can Be Risky
Driving with the tire pressure light on can lead to several potential risks, including:
- Reduced Safety: Underinflated tires can compromise your vehicle's handling, braking, and stability, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Increased Tire Wear: Improper tire pressure can cause uneven wear, shortening the lifespan of your tires and leading to costly replacements.
- Higher Risk of Blowouts: Underinflated tires are more prone to overheating, which can result in a dangerous blowout while driving.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, causing your vehicle to consume more fuel.
What to Do When the Tire Pressure Light Comes On
If your tire pressure light comes on, follow these steps to address the issue promptly:
- Pull Over Safely: As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over and inspect your tires for visible damage or deflation.
- Check Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in each tire. Compare the readings to the recommended levels listed in your vehicle's owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.
- Inflate or Deflate as Needed: Adjust the tire pressure to the recommended levels. Most gas stations have air pumps available for this purpose.
- Inspect for Damage: If a tire appears damaged or continues to lose pressure, it may have a puncture or leak. In this case, seek professional assistance immediately.
- Monitor the Light: After adjusting the pressure, the light should turn off after driving a short distance. If it remains on, there may be an issue with the TPMS itself, requiring further inspection.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unable to resolve the issue on your own or suspect a more serious problem, it’s best to consult a trusted auto repair professional. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in tire maintenance and repair, ensuring your vehicle is safe and road-ready. Don’t hesitate to contact us for expert assistance.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to ignore the tire pressure light, doing so can put your safety and your vehicle at risk. Addressing the issue promptly not only ensures a safer driving experience but also helps you avoid costly repairs down the road. Remember, your tires are the only part of your car that makes direct contact with the road—keeping them in optimal condition is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
How far can you drive with TYRE pressure light on?
You should only drive as far as the nearest petrol station, where you can re-inflate your tyres to the appropriate pressure. Drive with caution- and at a reduced speed, as your car's handling and performance will be compromised.
How long can you go with a tire pressure light 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.
How long can you drive around with low tire pressure?
Drive no more than 50 miles (80 km) and stick to dry, paved roads. Stay under the speed limit, and go no faster than 50 mph (80 kph) on highways. Visit a gas station to inflate your tires with an air pump, or buy a portable tire inflator for emergencies. Have a mechanic repair or replace damaged tires ASAP.
What is the lowest tire pressure safe to 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.
Is it bad to drive with low tire pressure light 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.
What is the lowest tire pressure that is safe to 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.
Is tire pressure light urgent?
Just like any light on your dashboard, when the low-pressure light turns on, you'll want to investigate the situation right away. Driving on tires with low pressure may affect your vehicle's performance, handling, and, most importantly, your safety on the road.
