Is it okay to drive with a service tire monitor system on?
Yes, you can usually drive to a repair shop if the warning means a fault with the TPMS itself rather than an actual tire being underinflated. However, don’t ignore the warning: have the system diagnosed and the tires checked as soon as possible.
What the Service TPMS warning means
The Service Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning indicates a fault within the TPMS circuitry, sensors, or calibration rather than a current tire pressure problem.
Common causes of a Service TPMS warning include:
- Dead or weak batteries in one or more TPMS sensors
- Faulty TPMS sensor or valve stem
- Damaged wiring or TPMS control module
- Vehicle not recognizing wheel position after rotation or tire change
- Calibration or relearn issues after tire service
In most cases, a service warning requires diagnostic work by a qualified technician. The actual tire pressures may still be correct, but the system cannot reliably alert you if a problem arises.
Is it safe to drive with the warning on?
It is generally safe to drive short distances to a service center to diagnose and repair the issue, but you should not rely on the TPMS for tire-pressure alerts until it’s fixed. If any tire appears visibly underinflated, or you notice a tire leakage, inflate to the recommended pressure and drive cautiously.
What to do next
To resolve a Service TPMS warning, follow these steps:
- Check all tire pressures with a reliable gauge and inflate to the vehicle’s recommended level if needed.
- Inspect tires for signs of damage, punctures, or unusual wear; check around valve stems for leaks.
- If pressures are correct and the warning persists, schedule a diagnostic at a dealership or tire shop to test sensors, wiring, and the TPMS controller.
- If you recently had tires changed or wheels rotated, request a TPMS relearn or calibration so the system recognizes the correct sensors.
- Ask whether your vehicle uses direct TPMS (sensor in each wheel) or indirect TPMS (ABS-based inference) and follow the shop’s recommended procedure for reset or replacement.
After diagnostic service, the warning should clear and the TPMS will resume accurate monitoring.
Summary
A Service TPMS warning signals a fault in the tire pressure monitoring system itself, not necessarily a tire underinflation condition. You can usually drive to a service center, but you should verify tire pressures manually and have the system diagnosed and repaired promptly to restore reliable safety monitoring.
