What causes the tire pressure warning light to come on?
4 Answers
Tire pressure warning light comes on for the following reasons: 1. Punctured tire; 2. Excessive tire pressure; 3. Driving with low tire pressure for too long; 4. Not inflating tires for a long time, causing tire pressure to drop. Tire pressure refers to the air pressure inside the tire, which is the blood pressure of a car. The level of tire pressure plays a crucial role in a car's performance and power. Tire pressure is the lifeline of tires - both too high and too low will shorten the tire's service life. Low tire pressure increases tire body deformation, easily causing cracks on the sidewalls while generating flexing motion that leads to excessive heat, accelerating rubber aging, fatigue of the cord ply, and cord breakage. It also increases the tire's contact area, accelerating shoulder wear. Excessive tire pressure causes excessive stretching deformation of tire cords, reducing the tire body's elasticity and increasing the load on the car during driving. If impacted, it may cause internal cracks and blowouts, while also accelerating tread wear and reducing puncture resistance.
The most common reason for the tire pressure warning light to illuminate is low tire pressure, such as when the gas contracts due to colder weather, naturally causing a pressure drop. It could also be a slow leak in the tire, like from a nail puncture, or abnormal pressure fluctuations after aggressive driving. Sometimes, the system itself malfunctions—for instance, when the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor's battery is depleted or damaged, especially in older vehicles where sensors typically last five to six years before failing. Failing to reset the system after tire changes or wheel adjustments can also trigger false alarms. Another frequent factor is drastic weather changes, where large day-night temperature differences affect tire performance. I recommend immediately finding a safe spot to pull over and visually inspect the tires for leaks, then use the onboard pressure gauge to check the pressure—standard values are usually listed on the door frame or in the manual. If the light remains on after driving a few kilometers post-inflation, seek professional repair. Ignoring this poses significant risks: increased chances of blowouts, accelerated wear, and higher fuel consumption. Developing a weekly tire pressure check habit helps prevent such issues.
Don't panic when the tire pressure light comes on. In most cases, it simply indicates low tire pressure, especially common during autumn and winter. I've encountered this several times myself, and the solution is quite straightforward: just use an air pump at a gas station to inflate the tires to the recommended value, typically between 30-35 PSI. If the light remains on after inflation, there might be an issue with the sensor or the system may need a reset—try turning the car off and restarting it. For prevention, make it a habit to manually check the tire pressure monthly; keeping a reliable tire pressure gauge in your car is an inexpensive and practical solution. Additionally, when changing tires, ensure the shop properly calibrates the system. Sensors with dead batteries need replacement, but professional maintenance can easily handle this—never overlook safety due to minor issues.
The tire pressure light indicates an alert from the tire pressure monitoring system, often caused by insufficient tire pressure or a leak. System issues such as sensor failure or loose wiring are also potential causes. Stop the vehicle immediately to inspect the tires for any damage, and inflate or reset the system if necessary. For prevention, pay attention to the impact of climate on tire pressure and address it promptly.
