What are the reasons for the tire pressure monitoring light to come on?
3 Answers
The reasons for the tire pressure monitoring light to come on are: 1. Tire damage causing deviation in the pressure of the four tires; 2. High or low tire pressure, leading to deviation in the pressure of the four tires; 3. High tire temperature. The functions of the tire pressure monitoring light: 1. To alert the driver of unstable tire pressure and prevent accidents; 2. To maintain the prescribed pressure and temperature range of the tires, reducing tire damage and extending tire lifespan; 3. To improve driving stability and reduce wear on the suspension system. Methods of tire pressure monitoring include: 1. Direct tire pressure monitoring: Uses pressure sensors installed inside the tires for direct detection, with wireless transmitters sending pressure information from inside the tire to a central receiver module, which displays the pressure data of each tire; 2. Indirect tire pressure monitoring: Monitors tire pressure by detecting differences in rotational speed between the tires.
I just noticed the tire pressure monitoring light has come on a few times. The most common reason is low tire pressure, which could be due to a sudden drop in temperature causing pressure loss, or a slow leak like from a nail puncture. If not addressed promptly, it can accelerate tire wear, increase fuel consumption, and even raise the risk of a blowout. Once, I ignored the light and ended up with a flat tire on the road—it was really dangerous. My advice is to pull over as soon as the light comes on, use a simple pressure gauge to check the tire pressure, and inflate to the recommended value listed on your vehicle. If the light stays on despite normal pressure, it might be a faulty sensor or system issue, and you should visit a repair shop. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure monthly and keep it within the standard range to ensure safety.
In my car repair experience, the tire pressure monitoring light usually comes on due to uneven pressure: low pressure is the most common issue, greatly affected by temperature; excessively high pressure can also be problematic; or it could be a TPMS sensor malfunction, such as a depleted battery. Inaccurate system calibration can also cause false alarms, all of which can impair handling balance and fuel efficiency. When owners notice the light on, they shouldn't panic but should first use a pressure gauge to measure all tire pressures to confirm if there's a real issue. If it's a sensor problem, it might be due to aging or damage requiring replacement, otherwise, it could lead to inaccurate readings. To prevent accidents, regular maintenance of the TPMS system is a good practice.
