What does the TPMS light mean on my Honda Pilot?
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light on your Honda Pilot is an important safety feature designed to alert you when one or more of your tires may be underinflated. Understanding what this light means and how to respond to it can help you maintain your vehicle's performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.
What Is the TPMS and Why Is It Important?
The TPMS is a system that monitors the air pressure in your vehicle's tires. If the pressure in any tire drops below the recommended level, the TPMS light will illuminate on your dashboard. This system is crucial because driving with underinflated tires can lead to:
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Increased tire wear
- Decreased handling and braking performance
- Higher risk of tire blowouts
By alerting you to low tire pressure, the TPMS helps you address potential issues before they become serious safety hazards.
What Causes the TPMS Light to Turn On?
There are several reasons why the TPMS light might illuminate on your Honda Pilot:
- Low Tire Pressure: This is the most common reason. A tire may lose pressure due to a puncture, a slow leak, or even changes in temperature.
- Seasonal Temperature Changes: Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, triggering the TPMS light.
- Faulty TPMS Sensor: If the sensor itself is damaged or malfunctioning, it may cause the light to turn on even if your tire pressure is fine.
- Recent Tire Service: If you've recently had your tires rotated, replaced, or repaired, the TPMS system may need to be recalibrated.
What Should You Do When the TPMS Light Comes On?
If the TPMS light comes on while you're driving your Honda Pilot, follow these steps:
- Check Your Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all four tires. Compare the readings to the recommended pressure levels listed in your owner's manual or on the sticker inside the driver's side door frame.
- Inflate Tires as Needed: If any tires are underinflated, add air until they reach the recommended pressure.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for visible signs of damage, such as punctures or cracks, and address them promptly.
- Reset the TPMS Light: After correcting the tire pressure, the TPMS light should turn off automatically. If it doesn't, consult your owner's manual for instructions on manually resetting the system.
- Visit a Professional: If the light remains on or if you suspect a faulty sensor, bring your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop for further inspection.
Preventative Tips to Avoid TPMS Issues
To minimize the chances of the TPMS light turning on unexpectedly, consider these preventative measures:
- Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.
- Inspect your tires for signs of wear or damage during routine maintenance.
- Ensure proper tire rotation and alignment to maintain even wear.
- Replace TPMS sensors as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
Conclusion
The TPMS light on your Honda Pilot is a helpful tool to ensure your tires are in optimal condition. By understanding its purpose and responding promptly when it illuminates, you can enhance your vehicle's safety, performance, and longevity. If you're ever unsure about what to do, don't hesitate to visit Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service. We're here to keep you and your vehicle on the road safely!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I fix the TPMS light on my Honda Pilot?
Honda TPMS Reset Tool
- From the Home screen, select Settings.
- Select vehicle.
- Select TPMS Calibration.
- Select Calibrate.
Why is my TPMS light on but tires are fine on my Honda?
Either the TPMS units or system are defective, need new batteries, or the tire pressure is too high or too low.
Why is my tire pressure light on when my tires look 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.
Why is my tire pressure light on if 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.
Can I still drive with the TPMS 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.
Why is my tire pressure sensor on but my tires are fine?
TPMS malfunction: If the TPMS itself is malfunctioning, the light may come on even if your tire pressure is normal. If you see the tire pressure light and your tires seem properly inflated, it's a good idea to have the TPMS checked by a mechanic.
How do I clear my Honda TPMS?
Resetting TPMS In Older Honda Vehicles
- Press MENU.
- Select Customize Settings.
- Select TPMS Calibration.
- Select Initialize.
- Select Yes.
- Press MENU to exit.
Why is my TPMS light on but not the tire pressure light?
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 much does it cost to replace a TPMS sensor?
between $314 and $368
The average cost to replace the TPMS Sensor is between $314 and $368. Find out TPMS Sensor replacement pricing for your vehicle.
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.
