What Does My TPMS Dashboard Light Mean?

What Does My TPMS Dashboard Light Mean?

After 2006, every vehicle manufactured is required to be equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system or TPMS . Why is this system so important? How do they work? And why is it important for drivers to understand the meaning of this light? Read on to learn the answers to these questions.

You might think that the TPMS is just another fancy tool that you don't need to use, but it is actually one of the most important safety measures on your car ( aside from seatbelts and airbags of course ).  As the name suggests, the TPMS is responsible for monitoring your vehicle's tire pressure through multiple wheel sensors.  If you know a thing or two about cars, you know that keeping your tire properly filled at its recommended psi, pounds per square inch, is important for the following reasons:

• Promotes even tire wear/extends the life of your tires
• Improves control and handling
• Helps vehicle gain proper traction
• Achieves better fuel mileage

 It is vital for you to keep your tire pressure at the right levels, not underinflated or overinflated. That is why all drivers should familiarize themselves with the warning light that corresponds with the system.

The TPMS light is shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation point. If you notice this light come on your car, SUV, or truck's dashboard, evaluate the behavior of the TPMS light first.

• ...if the TPMS light keeps turning on and off - You shouldn't worry too much about the light if it goes away. This scenario tends to happen when the temperature outside drastically changes. The colder air in the AM can cause your tire pressure to drop, but it can return to normal once your car warms up and the temperature warms up throughout the day.
• ...if the TPMS light flashes and doesn't turn off - A flashing or blinking TPMS light means that the tire pressure monitoring system needs servicing itself. It can mean that one or more of the sensors are faulty.
• ... if the TPMS light comes on while driving and stays on - A steady TPMS light indicates that one or more of your tires have significantly decreased in pressure. You should manually check the psi using a tire pressure gauge. After, you should top off the underinflated tires with air to meet the recommended psi set by your vehicle's manufacturer. The light should automatically reset after one or two drives.

If the warning indicator continues to stay on after your attempt at troubleshooting it, please bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop for assistance. Otherwise, ignoring your TPMS light for too long can put you and your loved ones in danger. Moreover, leaving your tires underinflated for too long can cost you new tires and tire-related repairs.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Services and Repairs in Pomona, CA