Decoding Your Tire Pressure Monitoring System: What To Do When the Light Comes On

Blog Sep 15th, 2023

You’re out on the open road, minding your own business on your drive when suddenly, a warning light grabs your attention. It’s none other than the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) indicator, and it’s shining bright on your dashboard. So, what’s the issue and what’s your next move? In this guide, we’re here to uncover all the mysteries behind the TPMS indicator light and how to solve them.

Understanding TPMS

Let’s kick things off by getting to know TPMS. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a pivotal safety component in automobiles. Its primary mission? Keep a watchful eye on your tire air pressure and issue an alert if it senses that your tires are running on low-pressure mode – a potential hazard.

Why does the TPMS matter?

Now, why all the hype about TPMS, you might ask? Well, here’s why it’s a big deal:

Safety First: Maintaining the right tire pressure is a non-negotiable for safety. Properly inflated tires offer superior grip and control, especially when the driving conditions are less than perfect.
Saving Green: Those properly inflated tires also mean better fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires crank up resistance, which translates to more visits to the gas pump and more dollars spent.
Longer Tire Life: Even tread wear, courtesy of the right tire pressure, means your tires will live a longer, more productive life – a win for your wallet.
Eco-Friendly: By reducing fuel efficiency, under-inflated tires indirectly contribute to higher carbon emissions – something we’re all trying to reduce.

Cracking the TPMS Code

When that TPMS indicator light comes on, it’s warning you about a potential tire pressure issue. The signal can mean any of the following:

Low Tire Pressure: The most common culprit behind the TPMS light is low tire pressure. It could be due to a slow leak, fluctuations in temperature, or just the natural loss of pressure over time.
Tire Puncture: A sharp object on the road could have caused a puncture in your tire. This could lead to a loss of pressure and the TPMS alert.
False Light: Sometimes, the TPMS sensor itself is acting up. It might be sending false warnings or incorrect pressure readings.
Low Battery: Some TPMS sensors have their own batteries that need replacing every few years. If they’ve fizzled out, the system can go haywire.

Blinking TPMS Light

When your TPMS indicator light blinks, it’s signaling something specific. Here are some common reasons for a blinking TPMS light:

Flashing Low Tire Pressure: A blinking TPMS light often indicates a severe drop in tire pressure. This could result from a significant leak, sharp object puncture, or sudden pressure loss.
Sensor Malfunction: In some instances, a blinking TPMS light might suggest a malfunction in one of the TPMS sensors. These sensors can occasionally send inaccurate readings or false warnings.

Cold Weather Caution

Before we dive into what to do when your TPMS light shines, let’s talk about cold weather’s role in tire pressure:

Temperature Drop: When the temperature drops, so can your tire pressure. Cold weather causes the air inside your tires to contract, leading to lower pressure levels. This pressure drop can sometimes trigger the TPMS warning light.
Check Seasonally: To keep your tires in top shape, especially during chilly weather, get in the habit of checking your tire pressure regularly. Most vehicles provide optimal pressure ranges for various conditions in the owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door frame.

What to Do When TPMS Strikes?

Now, the action plan for when your TPMS light turns on:

Tire Check: First, find a safe spot to pull over and give your tires a visual look-over. A trusty tire pressure gauge will help you assess the air pressure in each tire, including the spare.
Pump It Up: If your investigation reveals that one or more tires are significantly under-inflated, it’s time to play mechanic. Add air until they’re back to the recommended pressure levels. You can usually find these numbers in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on a handy sticker inside the driver’s side door frame.
Investigate for Injuries: While you’re in inspection mode, keep an eye out for any visible signs of harm – like nails or screws embedded in your tire’s tread. If you spot any damage, make a date with a pro for repairs or replacements.
TPMS Reset: After your inflation or addressing any tire issues, you may need to reset the TPMS system. Consult your owner’s manual for precise instructions since the process can vary from one vehicle to the next.
Mechanic Magic: Should the TPMS light continue to shine, even after your pressure checks and adjustments, it’s time to bring in the experts. A visit to the Elite BMW service center is your next move. We can diagnose any underlying issues, like finicky sensors or system malfunctions.

The TPMS indicator light might be a small part of your dashboard, but the safety it provides can’t be understated. When the light turns on, it’s your cue to investigate and act swiftly. Ignoring it could mean trouble, from safety concerns to reduced fuel efficiency and premature tire wear. By deciphering the TPMS light’s language and reacting effectively, you’ll keep your vehicle and tires in tip-top shape, ensuring a safer and more efficient journey on the road.