What Causes Sudden Abnormal Tire Pressure Warning in a Car?
2 Answers
Abnormal tire pressure warnings are generally caused by the following three reasons: Tire Pressure Anomaly: The system typically triggers an alert when pressure falls below 1.8bar or exceeds 3.0bar. In this case, tire inspection and pressure adjustment are required. Unreset Tire Pressure Monitoring System: If the system isn't reset after tire inflation, it continues to display previously recorded data, causing the warning light to illuminate. Simply performing a tire pressure reset will resolve this. Damaged Tire Pressure Sensor: These sensors, installed inside tires and connected to the inflation valve, monitor tire pressure. If damaged during driving (e.g., by impact), they may trigger the warning light. Damaged sensors must be replaced with new components. Tire Pressure Reset: This refers to resetting the tire pressure monitoring system after addressing any tire pressure issues. Tire Pressure Reset Method: 1. Turn on the ignition 2. Press and hold the tire pressure reset button until hearing a "beep" 3. Release the button - the system will now store current normal pressure data and erase previous records 4. The dashboard warning light will extinguish, indicating successful reset.
Last time I was on a long drive, the tire pressure warning light suddenly came on, which scared me so much that I immediately pulled over. A common cause could be a nail puncturing the tire, especially after rain when nails tend to hide in puddles on the road. Another scenario is a sudden temperature change—I once had all four tires trigger warnings when temperatures dropped below freezing in winter. If a previously patched tire isn’t properly sealed, it can also lead to slow leaks. In such situations, avoid slamming on the brakes, as it increases the risk of a blowout. It’s recommended to slow down to below 60 mph immediately and find the nearest repair shop for an inspection. Remember to always carry a tire pressure gauge and check the pressure weekly when the tires are cold, maintaining the manufacturer’s recommended value (usually labeled on the B-pillar or fuel filler cap). Tire pressure fluctuates significantly during seasonal changes, so timely adjustments are crucial.
