Can You Still Drive with the Tire Sensor Malfunction Light On?
2 Answers
You should not continue driving. This is usually caused by a damaged tire pressure sensor, and replacing the sensor will resolve the issue. The characteristics of the sensor include: miniaturization, digitization, intelligence, multifunctionality, systematization, and networking. It is the primary link in achieving automatic detection and control. Below is relevant information: Inspecting the Tire Monitoring System: When the system malfunctions, the tire pressure warning light will flash for about 1 minute, and the DIC will display "Service Tire Monitor System." If one or more tire pressure sensors fail to send any signal within a certain period, the tire pressure monitoring system will set a fault code, display this message, and make the warning light flash for about 1 minute, remaining lit for the rest of the ignition cycle. If the system fault is intermittent, the warning message/light may also be intermittent, lighting up in some ignition cycles and turning off in others. At this point, use a diagnostic tool to check the vehicle and perform repairs as indicated by the fault code. Low Tire Pressure: Warning for Low or High Tire Pressure. If the tire pressure monitoring system detects that a tire's pressure is below the calibrated value, the DIC will display a message such as "XX Tire Pressure Low" or "XX Tire Pressure High," and the tire pressure warning light will illuminate and remain lit. The warning message and light may operate intermittently, especially in cold weather.
That light is on, indicating a possible issue with the tire sensor, but the car can still be driven temporarily. I've encountered this a few times in over a decade of driving. Mainly, the light indicates a fault with the sensor itself, such as a dead battery or a loose connection, which doesn’t directly affect the tire. However, caution is necessary because if the sensor is faulty, you can’t monitor tire pressure in real-time. If there’s abnormal air pressure or a puncture causing a leak, you might not know, and a blowout at high speed can be very dangerous. It’s best to stop and check the tire’s appearance and pressure manually with a gauge to ensure each tire is within the normal range. Most manufacturers recommend repairing it as soon as the light comes on. Delaying too long may lead to more complex electrical issues, costing more to fix. I once neglected this light and ended up with a slightly flat front tire, so I quickly inflated it and went to the repair shop to replace the sensor.
