Why is the tire pressure light blinking?

A blinking tire pressure warning typically points to a problem with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) or its sensors rather than just a tire needing air. This article explains what blinking means and how to respond.

How TPMS works and what the lights mean

The TPMS watches tire pressure and alerts you if it falls outside the recommended range. There are two main types: direct TPMS, which uses sensors in each wheel to report actual pressures, and indirect TPMS, which relies on ABS wheel-speed data to infer pressure differences. A steady warning light usually means at least one tire is underinflated; a blinking light almost always signals a TPMS hardware or configuration fault that often requires service or sensor replacement.

Direct vs indirect TPMS explained

Direct TPMS provides real-time pressure readings from battery-powered sensors in each wheel. Indirect TPMS doesn’t measure pressure directly; it analyzes wheel speeds to detect differences that suggest underinflation. The flashing pattern helps distinguish a pressure issue from a system fault.

Why the light might blink rather than stay steady

The blinking pattern is used to flag a problem with the TPMS hardware or setup, not simply low pressure. Common causes include sensor failures or battery issues, damage or misreading of sensors, or the need to relearn the system after tires are rotated or replaced.

Before you proceed with repairs, consider this overview of typical causes:

• Dead or dying TPMS sensor batteries in one or more wheels. Sensor batteries typically last 5–10 years and can fail as tires are changed or the car ages.


• Damaged, loose, or misread sensors due to impact, improper wheel mounting, or loose valve stems.


• TPMS control module fault or a loss of communication between wheel sensors and the vehicle's computer.


• Recent tire work: after rotating or replacing tires, the system may need to be relearned or reset so the sensors are recognized.


• Faulty or mismatched wheels/tires: using tires without TPMS sensors or aftermarket sensors not properly programmed.


• Extreme temperature changes or frequent rapid pressure changes can cause the system to flag a fault if readings are erratic.

The blinking usually calls for diagnostics rather than immediate tire inflation. A thorough check helps determine whether you merely need to inflate tires or whether a sensor needs replacement or a system reset.

What to do if the TPMS light is blinking

The following steps guide you from basic checks to professional service. This list helps you verify whether the issue is simple (like a low tire) or a TPMS fault needing repair.

Before starting the list, note that you should check tire pressures first and perform a reset if your vehicle supports it after inflating the tires to the recommended pressure.

• Check all tire pressures with a reliable gauge and compare to the vehicle’s recommended specification (found on the door jamb or owner's manual). Inflate any tires that are below the recommended pressure.


• Look for obvious punctures, damaged valves, or signs around the tires. If a tire is damaged or cannot be inflated, seek professional help immediately.


• Drive for a short distance (a few miles) to give the TPMS time to recheck after inflating. If the light stops blinking, the issue may be resolved; if it stays blinking, the problem is with the TPMS hardware or configuration.


• Use an OBD-II scanner or take the vehicle to a tire shop or dealer to read TPMS fault codes and confirm whether a sensor is failing or a module issue exists.


• Ask the technician to perform a TPMS relearn procedure after any tire rotation or sensor replacement. Some cars require a specific reset sequence or a professional scan tool to re-sync sensor IDs with the system.

In cases where a sensor is failing or its battery is dead, replacement sensors are typically required. Replacing a sensor usually includes programming or relearning to the vehicle’s TPMS module, which is best done by a qualified technician.

When to seek immediate help

If you notice sudden changes in tire pressure or suspect a tire puncture along with the blinking light, stop safely and inspect the tires. If you cannot identify a safe path to inflate or repair, call roadside assistance. A blinking TPMS light in combination with a hissing sound, visible tire damage, or a rapidly decreasing tire pressure should be treated as an urgent safety issue.

Summary

A blinking tire pressure light usually signals a fault in the TPMS system or its sensors rather than simply low tire pressure. Start by checking tire pressures, inspect tires for damage, and have a professional diagnose if the light continues to blink after inflating the tires. Regular maintenance, timely sensor replacement, and proper relearn procedures after tire work help keep TPMS functioning and prevent unexpected warnings.

What is the difference between solid and blinking tire pressure light?

A solid tire pressure light means one or more tires are underinflated and need air, while a blinking or flashing light indicates a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) itself, most commonly a bad sensor. If the light blinks for a short time and then turns solid, it is still signaling a system malfunction, not just low pressure.
 
This video explains the difference between a solid and blinking TPMS light: 53sStandard BrandYouTube · Jun 13, 2016
Solid light

• Meaning: Low tire pressure. 
• What to do:
  • Inflate all tires to the correct pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual. 
  • Check the spare tire as well, if equipped with a sensor. 
  • After inflating, drive the vehicle for a few minutes, and the light should turn off. 

Blinking or flashing light

• Meaning: A system malfunction, usually a faulty sensor. 
• Common causes:
  • A dead or low battery in a sensor (sensors have a lifespan of about 7-10 years). 
  • A sensor that has been damaged. 
  • An incorrect sensor is installed. 
  • The system needs to be reinitialized after changing tires or rotating them. 
• What to do:
  • Inflate your tires to the correct pressure first, as this will rule out low pressure as the cause of the system light being on. 
  • If the light continues to blink or flashes then stays solid, take your car to a mechanic to diagnose the specific problem. 
  • A mechanic can use a special tool to determine which sensor has failed and needs to be replaced. 

You can watch this video to learn how to diagnose a flashing tire pressure light: 50sHow to AutomotiveYouTube · Mar 2, 2017

Is a blinking light a serious problem?

Bottom Line: A blinking indicator typically signals a problem with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. It is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your vehicle's engine. If the light is flashing, don't let car troubles slow you down.

Can I drive with my tire pressure light blinking?

Don't ignore a flashing TPMS light, as it signals potential tire pressure problems. Use these steps to reset it promptly for a safe and optimized driving experience. For further guidance or professional assistance, don't hesitate to contact us.

How do I stop my tire pressure light from blinking?

To turn off a blinking tire pressure light, first inflate all tires (including the spare) to the correct pressure listed on the driver's side door jamb. If the light remains on after correcting the pressure, press and hold the TPMS reset button until the light blinks, or drive for at least 10-20 minutes at a consistent speed to allow the system to recalibrate. If the light still won't turn off, it could indicate a failing sensor battery, and the sensors may need to be replaced. 
Step 1: Check and adjust tire pressure 

• Check all four tires and the spare tire when they are cold. 
• Inflate them to the pressure recommended on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb or in your owner's manual. 
• Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure the pressure is correct. 

Step 2: Reset the system 

• If there is a TPMS reset button: Turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine. Locate the TPMS reset button, often found under the steering wheel or on the dashboard. Press and hold it until the light blinks three times, then release it. 
• If there is no reset button: Drive the vehicle for at least 10-20 minutes at a speed of 50 mph or more. The system should reset automatically after a short drive. 
• For some models with a touchscreen: Press the "Home" button, then navigate to "Settings," "Vehicle," "TPMS Calibration," and finally "Calibrate". 

Step 3: If the light remains on

• Consider a hard reset: Some manufacturers suggest overinflating tires by about 333 PSI, letting all the air out, and then reinflating them to the correct pressure to force a reset. Another method is to disconnect the positive battery cable with the car off, turn the car on and press the horn for three seconds, then reconnect the battery. 
• Check for system malfunctions: A blinking light that doesn't go off after these steps can signal a faulty sensor. The batteries inside the sensors can weaken over time, or a sensor may have failed completely. 
• Visit a professional: If you have tried all other steps, it is best to have a tire shop or dealership diagnose the issue. They can use specialized tools to check the pressure sensors and replace any that are malfunctioning. 

0:03Does anyone know why is the tpms blinking? : r/AskMechanicsRedditWalkingbyfaith777 · 2y 0:18TPMS light blinking : r/MechanicAdviceRedditAmazing-Ad5868 · 1mo 0:57TPMS Light Flashing: What Does It Mean?TikTokchris_mf_craig · 3y (function(){
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