Where is the tire pressure indicator?
The tire pressure indicator is the TPMS warning light on your dashboard, usually a tire-shaped icon with an exclamation mark. It signals that a tire is underinflated or there is a TPMS fault. The exact location and appearance can vary by vehicle and model. TPMS has been standard in many markets since the late 2000s, with direct sensors in each wheel on most new cars.
In the sections that follow, you’ll learn where it’s typically found on common vehicles, what the symbol means, and how to respond when it lights up.
Where you will typically find the indicator
In modern cars, the tire pressure indicator is part of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and is displayed on the instrument cluster. Depending on the dash design, you may see a small tire icon, a tire-shaped warning light, or a digital TPMS message.
- Instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, usually near the speedometer or tachometer.
- Standalone warning light within the same cluster, commonly red or yellow.
- On digital dashboards, shown on a central display as "TPMS" or a tire icon with a warning.
If you can’t locate the exact symbol on your model, consult the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s manufacturer website for model-specific guidance.
What the indicator means and how to respond
When the TPMS light comes on, follow these steps to verify pressures and determine if there’s a fault in the system.
- Check inflation pressures on all tires with a reliable gauge and inflate to the recommended psi listed on the door jamb sticker or in the manual.
- If your vehicle uses a sensor-equipped spare, check that tire as well; otherwise monitor all tires after inflation.
- Drive a short distance; most systems recalibrate after stable pressures are detected, and the light should turn off if everything is within spec.
- If the light stays on after inflation or if it blinks, have the TPMS inspected by a qualified technician—the issue could be a faulty sensor or dead battery in a wheel sensor.
Regularly maintaining correct tire pressures helps with safety, handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency. If in doubt, seek service to verify the TPMS system itself.
Summary
The tire pressure indicator is the TPMS warning light on your dashboard, found in the instrument cluster or digital display and signaling underinflation or a system fault. Locate it by checking your manual for model-specific placement, inflate tires to the recommended pressure, and have the system checked if the light remains on after inflation.
