Is it safe to drive with a blinking tire pressure light?
The short answer is no, it is generally not safe to drive with a blinking tire pressure light. A blinking tire pressure light indicates a serious issue with your vehicle's tire pressure that requires immediate attention.
Understanding the Tire Pressure Warning Light
The tire pressure warning light, also known as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light, is designed to alert drivers when the air pressure in one or more of their tires falls below a certain threshold. This light is typically shaped like a horseshoe or an exclamation point and is located on the vehicle's dashboard.
When the tire pressure light is illuminated, it means that the air pressure in one or more of the tires has dropped to an unsafe level. If the light is blinking, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a rapid air leak or a malfunctioning TPMS sensor.
Dangers of Driving with a Blinking Tire Pressure Light
Driving with a blinking tire pressure light can be extremely dangerous for several reasons:
- Increased Risk of Tire Failure: Low tire pressure can cause the tire to overheat, leading to a blowout or sudden loss of control of the vehicle. This can be especially hazardous at high speeds or on the highway.
- Reduced Handling and Stability: Underinflated tires can affect the vehicle's handling, making it more difficult to steer and control, especially in emergency situations.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Driving with underinflated tires can significantly reduce your vehicle's fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs and increased emissions.
- Potential Damage to the Tire and Wheel: Continued driving with a blinking tire pressure light can cause further damage to the tire and wheel, leading to more expensive repairs.
If you see the tire pressure light blinking, it's important to pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and inspect your tires. You may need to add air to the affected tire or have the TPMS system checked by a professional.
Conclusion
Driving with a blinking tire pressure light is never recommended, as it can be extremely dangerous and lead to serious consequences. If you encounter this warning light, it's crucial to address the issue immediately to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
Can AutoZone check TPMS sensors?
You can get them replaced at most tire shops like Walmart, Discount Tire, Firestone, and PepBoys. Plus, Walmart and AutoZone test your sensors for free so you can figure out if they're bad or not. Also, if you do want to get then replaced at Walmart, they're like 30ish dollars each, and they come with new valve stems.
Is it bad if my tire pressure light is blinking?
If the low tire pressure light is flashing, this is usually due to low batteries. The batteries should last from 5-7 years or around 100000 miles. Unfortunately the only way to replace these batteries is to take the tire off the rim.
Why is my low tire pressure light on but my tires are fine?
The causes can be a malfunction, or the weather changes. Other reasons why your TPMS light may still be blinking is because your tire may be damaged, or you might have gotten a recent tire replacement. Overall, the reasons can be vast, which is why it is best to take your car to a technician for professional diagnosis.
How urgent is a tire pressure warning?
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.
Can I drive with low tire pressure?
Is It Okay to Drive 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.
How do I know if my tire pressure sensor is bad?
Sensor Malfunctions: If your tire pressure is within the recommended range, but the sensor triggers a warning light, it may be malfunctioning. Handling Differences: Should you notice handling changes like swerving or flat tires without a TPMS alert, the sensor might be failing to detect these crucial pressure drops.
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 long can I drive with the 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.
Can you replace a TPMS battery yourself?
The potting compound is likely the reason most TPMS sensors don't have replaceable batteries. Potting compound prevents vibration, strain, and shock from damaging electronics. The sensor lives in a wheel that spins fast and rolls over potholes. The potting compound is what keeps it from failing quickly.
How much does it cost to replace a tire pressure sensor battery?
The cost of replacing a TPMS sensor battery varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, but generally speaking you should expect to pay anywhere from $20-$200 for each replacement battery, plus labor costs if you have it done at an auto repair shop or dealership.
