Why is my TPMS light on again?
We've all been there…
You're cruising down the road and that pesky tire pressure light comes on. It can be tempting to ignore it, but Mike Lindquist, owner and automotive expert, from Wilton Auto and Tire is here to tell you why that's a bad idea.
The Tire Pressure Light Isn't There to Annoy You
That light is actually a vital safety feature! It indicates that one or more of your tires are underinflated. Here's why keeping your tires properly inflated is important:
- Safety: Underinflated tires can cause blowouts, which can be terrifying at high speeds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), improperly inflated tires are a contributing factor in about 300 deaths and 11,000 injuries annually in the U.S.
- Fuel Efficiency: Proper tire pressure improves gas mileage by up to 3.3%, according to the Department of Energy.That adds up, especially with today's gas prices!
- Tire Wear: Underinflated tires wear out unevenly on the edges, leading to a shorter lifespan and the need for more frequent replacements.
Why Does the Light Keep Coming On?
There are a couple of reasons why your tire pressure light might keep turning on, even after you inflate a single tire:
- Not All Tires Inflated: The system is sensitive to pressure differences between all four tires. Ideally, inflate all four to the recommended pressure listed on a sticker in your door jamb (not the sidewall of the tire).
- Slow Leaks: Tires naturally lose air over time. If one tire has a slow leak, it will lose pressure faster than the others.
- Faulty TPMS Sensor: The sensors that monitor tire pressure have batteries that can weaken over time (usually after 5-6 years).
What to Do When the Light Comes On
- Check all four tire pressures. Use a reliable tire gauge (not the one at the gas station!).
- Inflate all tires to the recommended pressure.
- Revisit in a week. If one tire pressure is significantly lower than the others, you might have a leak.
- Consider TPMS sensor replacement. If your car is older than 6-7 years, replacing all the sensors might be a good preventative measure.
Remember: Don't ignore the tire pressure light! It's there to keep you safe. If you're having trouble maintaining proper tire pressure, come see the professionals at Wilton Auto and Tire Center. We can help you with tire inflation, leak repair, and TPMS sensor replacement.
