You’re driving along when suddenly your TPMS sensors trigger a warning light on your dashboard. The first thought that comes to mind is that you have a flat tire, but when you check, everything seems fine. What gives?
The truth is, weather changes—especially drops in temperature—can cause your tire pressure to fluctuate, which in turn can trigger your TPMS sensors. This system is designed to alert you when your tire pressure is too low, helping you avoid dangerous driving conditions.
Many drivers experience this issue as the seasons change, and understanding why it happens can help you prevent unnecessary worry and keep your vehicle running safely.
What Are TPMS Sensors and How Do They Work?
Your vehicle’s TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors alert you when one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. There are two types of TPMS sensors used in vehicles today:
- Direct TPMS uses pressure sensors inside each wheel to measure air pressure and send real-time data to your car’s computer.
- Indirect TPMS relies on wheel speed data from the ABS system to detect differences in tire rotation, which can indicate low pressure.
When your TPMS sensors detect low tire pressure, a warning light—usually shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation mark—appears on your dashboard.
Why Do TPMS Sensors Get Triggered by Weather Changes?
Temperature plays a significant role in tire pressure, which is why you might see your TPMS sensors activate when the weather changes.
Cold air causes tire pressure to drop. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases by about 1-2 PSI (pounds per square inch). If your tires were already on the lower end of their recommended pressure range, a cold morning could cause the pressure to dip below the threshold that triggers your TPMS sensors.
Warm air causes tire pressure to increase. When temperatures rise, air inside your tires expands, increasing tire pressure. This usually isn’t as much of a concern as low tire pressure, but in extreme heat, overinflated tires can cause uneven tread wear and reduced traction.
Daily temperature swings can trigger TPMS sensors. If it’s warm during the day but cold at night, your TPMS sensors may activate in the morning and turn off later in the day as the air inside your tires expands. This can be confusing, but it’s a normal response to temperature changes.
What Should You Do If Your TPMS Sensors Turn On?
If your TPMS sensors activate, don’t ignore them—low tire pressure can affect safety, handling, and fuel efficiency.
Check your tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge on all four tires, including the spare. Compare the readings to your vehicle’s recommended pressure, which can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.
Inflate your tires to the proper PSI if they are low. Be careful not to overinflate, as this can lead to reduced traction and uneven tire wear.
Drive for a few miles after adjusting tire pressure. Sometimes, the TPMS sensors need a little time to recognize that the pressure has been corrected. If the warning light turns off, the issue was likely caused by temperature changes.
Reset the TPMS system if necessary. Some vehicles require you to manually reset the TPMS sensors after inflating the tires. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reset your specific system.
Get a professional inspection if the TPMS light stays on. If your tire pressure is correct but the warning light remains, there could be another issue, such as:
- A damaged sensor
- A slow leak in the tire
- A faulty TPMS system
A professional technician can diagnose and resolve the problem.
The Dangers of Driving with Low Tire Pressure
Ignoring your TPMS sensors and driving with low tire pressure can lead to several problems.
Poor fuel efficiency occurs when underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and reducing gas mileage.
Uneven tire wear develops when low tire pressure causes excessive wear on the edges of the tread, leading to premature tire replacement.
Reduced traction increases the risk of skidding or hydroplaning in wet conditions, making your vehicle less stable on the road.
Increased risk of a blowout is another danger of driving with low tire pressure. When a tire is underinflated, excessive flexing can cause heat buildup, leading to a sudden blowout.
Proper tire pressure is essential for both safety and performance, so it’s important to address TPMS sensor warnings as soon as they appear.
How to Maintain Proper Tire Pressure Year-Round
To prevent your TPMS sensors from constantly triggering due to weather changes, follow these tips.
- Check tire pressure at least once a month, even if your TPMS sensors haven’t turned on.
- Adjust for seasonal changes by checking and adjusting your tire pressure before winter and summer to compensate for temperature fluctuations.
- Keep a tire pressure gauge in your car for quick and easy checks when needed.
Schedule a TPMS Inspection at DADS Auto Repair
Don’t let fluctuating tire pressure catch you off guard. Whether your TPMS sensors keep triggering or you just want to ensure your tires are properly inflated, our team at DADS Auto Repair is here to help.
Stop by or schedule an appointment today for a tire pressure check, TPMS diagnostics, and expert maintenance to keep you driving safely in any weather.
