Why is my low tire pressure light on but my tire pressure is normal?
If your vehicle's low tire pressure warning light is illuminated but your tires appear to have normal pressure, there could be a few potential reasons. The most common explanations are a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a change in temperature, or a slow air leak in one of the tires.
Malfunctioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The TPMS is designed to alert you when one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. However, these systems can sometimes malfunction and trigger the warning light even when the tire pressure is within the normal range. This could be due to a faulty TPMS sensor, a problem with the TPMS wiring, or an issue with the TPMS control module. If the TPMS is malfunctioning, the warning light may stay on until the system is repaired or reset.
Changes in Temperature
Tire pressure can fluctuate with changes in temperature. As the temperature drops, the air inside the tires contracts, causing the pressure to decrease. Conversely, as the temperature rises, the air expands, and the pressure increases. If the temperature has changed significantly since you last checked your tire pressure, the TPMS may detect a drop in pressure and trigger the warning light, even though the actual pressure is still within the recommended range.
Slow Air Leak
A slow air leak in one of your tires can also cause the TPMS to activate the warning light, even if the tire pressure is still within the normal range. Over time, the slow leak will cause the tire pressure to gradually decrease, eventually triggering the TPMS. However, the pressure may still be high enough to avoid a noticeable difference in the tire's appearance or performance.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Check the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure the pressure in each tire matches the recommended PSI listed in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker.
- If the tire pressure is within the normal range, try resetting the TPMS system according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may clear the warning light if it's a temporary issue.
- If the warning light remains on after resetting the TPMS, have a professional technician inspect the system for any malfunctioning components or slow air leaks.
Addressing the underlying cause of the low tire pressure warning light is important to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance. By understanding the potential reasons for the light's activation, you can take the appropriate steps to resolve the issue and keep your tires properly inflated.
Why did my tire pressure light come on but my tires are fine?
If you've added air but the air pressure warning light stays on, there's a problem with your Tire Pressure Monitoring System or you have a slow leak... Quick Tip: If the TPMS warning light comes back on after you've filled the tire with air, recheck the tire to make sure it is inflated to the proper air pressure.
How do I know which tire sensor is bad?
Measure the air pressure of each tire and record them. Then, compare the data with the one displayed in your car display panel. If the reading in one tire is different from the one displayed, it might mean that there's a problem with the TPMS sensor in that tire.
Can a tire pressure light be false?
False Light: Sometimes, the TPMS sensor itself is acting up. It might be sending false warnings or incorrect pressure readings. Low Battery: Some TPMS sensors have their own batteries that need replacing every few years. If they've fizzled out, the system can go haywire.
Is it okay to drive with the 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.
Why is my TPMS light on with good pressure?
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.
What is a dangerously low tire pressure?
Pressures below 20 PSI are considered “flat” and dangerous to drive on. Usually, low pressures indicate a puncture but can also occur over long periods naturally as air escapes.
Why does my car say I have low tire pressure when I don t?
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 to reset tire pressure sensor?
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.
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.
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.
