What is your TPMS trying to tell you?
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light indicates that one or more of your tires are under-inflated, typically by 25% or more of the recommended pressure. This is a critical safety warning that should never be ignored. In some cases, the light will flash before staying on, which usually indicates a fault with the TPMS system itself (like a dead sensor battery).
Even if your tires look 'okay,' they could be significantly under-inflated, which drastically changes your vehicle's handling, especially at highway speeds.
Dangers of low tire pressure
Driving with low tire pressure is dangerous. It increases your braking distance, impairs handling in corners, and, most importantly, causes your tires to overheat. As the tire sidewalls flex more, they generate intense internal heat, which can lead to a sudden and dangerous tire blowout on the highway. In the scorching Houston heat, this risk is significantly magnified.
Proper inflation is essential for both your safety and for getting the most life out of your tires.
How to check and adjust
First, find the correct tire pressure for your vehicle. This is almost always found on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb — not on the sidewall of the tire itself. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check all four tires, including the spare if you have one. If one tire is low, look for a nail, screw, or a visible cut in the tread or sidewall.
If you can't find the source of the leak, bring your car to a professional to avoid a flat on the highway.
Houston heat and your tires
Temperature changes the pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree rise in ambient temperature, your tire pressure rises by about 1 psi. This is why checking your pressure periodically throughout the year is vital. If your tires were inflated during a cooler season, they might be over-inflated now, or if they were low, they might be dangerously under-inflated.
Always check tire pressure when the tires are 'cold,' meaning the car has been parked for at least three hours.
What to do if the light won't go off
If you have filled all tires to the correct pressure and the light stays on, you may have a faulty TPMS sensor, or one of your tires may still be leaking. If it's a leak, you need a professional repair. If it's a sensor, it might need to be replaced, which requires specialized tools to program the new sensor to your car's computer.
Don't drive if you suspect a serious tire issue.
Need tire assistance?
If you have a flat tire or persistent TPMS issues, we can help. While we are not a full-service tire shop, we can help with emergency tire repairs and diagnostic checks at your location. If you are stranded, we can assist in safely getting you back on the road.
Call 281-688-2782 for immediate, professional mobile mechanic service.
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- Mobile Tire Repair in Houston — Flat tire? We patch, plug, or swap tires wherever you are.
Also available in Houston, Bellaire, West University Place, Pasadena, Baytown.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive on a tire with low pressure for long?
No. You should add air immediately. Driving on an under-inflated tire will ruin the tire's internal structure very quickly.
Is a flashing TPMS light different from a steady one?
Yes. A flashing light usually indicates a problem with the tire pressure sensors themselves, not necessarily the pressure in the tire.
Why does my TPMS light come on in winter?
As the temperature drops, the air in your tires contracts, causing the pressure to drop. It is a very common issue.
Does a puncture always mean a new tire?
If the puncture is in the tread and not the sidewall, it can often be safely repaired by a professional.