PMS Light | Tire Pressure Sensor
Understanding TPMS: What Your Tire Pressure Light is Telling You
When a warning light comes on, it can be surprising and concerning. These signals are put in place to alert drivers when a component of the vehicle needs attention for safety and performance. One of these lights is from the tire pressure monitoring system. This blog looks at what the system does and what action you should take when the light comes on.
Purpose of the TPMS
The tire pressure monitoring system, also known as TPMS, is an important safety feature integrated into modern vehicles. The system’s primary function is to monitor the air pressure inside the vehicle’s pneumatic tires. Proper tire pressure is crucial not only for safety but also for the vehicle’s efficiency and tire longevity. When the pressure drops below the designated level, an alert is displayed on the dashboard. The alert usually looks like a horseshoe with an exclamation mark in the center. It can often be accompanied by chime to grab your attention. If the TPMS sends an alert, it means one or more tires do not have the proper amount of pressure. By providing this early warning, the TPMS helps prevent driving on underinflated tires, which can be dangerous. It ensures you can take prompt action to correct the pressure and avoid further complications.
Importance of Proper Tire Pressure
Tire pressure can be decreased for several reasons. If the outside temperature has recently dropped, it can cause tire pressure to decrease. The warning light can also indicate a leak in the tire. Not every tire puncture results in a startling blowout. Often, there is a small, slow leak that would not be noticeable for days or weeks. Without the tire pressure monitoring system, you may not realize there is a leak until there is a flat unless you regularly check your pressure with a tire gauge. There are several risks to driving on tires that have low tire pressure.
- Lowered fuel efficiency
- Additional wear and tear on tires
- Compromised handling capabilities
- Possibility of tread separation
- Risk of blowout
Proper tire inflation improves driving safety, extends tire life and maximizes fuel economy.
What to Do When the Light Comes On
If your TPMS warning light illuminates, you should not ignore it. You can check the tire pressure yourself to see where the levels are compared to the recommended pressure that can be found on the inside door jam. If adding air does not resolve the warning light, it is best to schedule an appointment for a technician to take a look. The technician will simply refill the tires to the proper pressure levels if the drop was a result of changing temperatures. If a leak is detected, the puncture may be able to be patched or you may need a new tire. Your technician will discuss your options to resolve the situation. Taking proactive steps can help prevent a flat tire down the road.
Tire Source is Your Tire Experts
Not sure why your light is on? Schedule an inspection at your nearest Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care. Whether it’s a quick pressure refill or a full inspection and repair, our experts will ensure your tires are in top condition. Our knowledgeable technicians are ready to inspect, diagnose and resolve any tire-related issues. We have several locations across Northeast Ohio for your convenience.