Why does the tire pressure monitoring light come on when it's too cold?
2 Answers
When the tire pressure monitoring light comes on in cold weather, it's due to low tire pressure. The functions of tire pressure monitoring are: 1. Preventing accidents; 2. Extending tire service life; 3. Reducing wear on the suspension system. Tire pressure monitoring automatically checks tire pressure in real-time while driving and alerts the driver to leaks or low pressure to ensure driving safety. The working principle of tire pressure monitoring involves a built-in sensor in the tire's hub, which includes a bridge-type electronic pressure sensing device that detects pressure, converts the pressure signal into an electrical signal, and transmits it wirelessly.
The tire pressure monitoring light came on in cold weather, and I've pondered this issue multiple times because I'm the type who enjoys tinkering with car details. The root cause is the drop in temperature causing the air inside the tires to contract, which naturally reduces the pressure. When the system detects that it's below the set value, it triggers the warning light. This is no small matter—low tire pressure can lead to uneven tire wear, increased fuel consumption, and even the risk of a blowout at high speeds. I suggest you don't panic right away. First, use a tire pressure gauge to manually check the pressure in all tires, including the spare, as they might all be low in cold weather. Refer to your vehicle's manual for the standard pressure values, usually found on the inside of the driver's door, and adjust them to the appropriate level using an air pump. If the light remains on, there might be an issue with the sensor or circuitry, which would require a professional inspection. Regularly monitoring tire pressure during seasonal changes is a good habit—it extends tire life and saves fuel.
