The tyre pressure warning light, often referred to as the TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) light, indicates that one or more tyres may be underinflated. Maintaining correct tyre pressure is essential for safe driving, proper vehicle handling and fuel efficiency.
Modern vehicles use sensors inside each wheel to monitor tyre pressure. If the pressure drops below the recommended level, the system alerts the driver by illuminating the tyre pressure warning light on the dashboard.
In many situations it is possible to continue driving for a short distance if the tyre pressure warning light appears. However, you should check the tyres as soon as possible to ensure that the pressure has not dropped significantly.
Driving with underinflated tyres can reduce grip, increase braking distance and cause uneven tyre wear. If a tyre is severely underinflated it may overheat and increase the risk of a blowout.
If the vehicle begins pulling to one side, the steering feels unstable or you suspect a puncture, it is safest to stop the vehicle and inspect the tyres immediately. Continuing to drive on a damaged tyre can cause further tyre damage or loss of control.
The most common cause is simply low tyre pressure due to natural air loss or seasonal temperature changes. Tyre pressure tends to drop during colder weather which can trigger the warning light.
Other possible causes include punctures, leaking valves, damaged tyres or faults within the TPMS sensors themselves.
Checking tyre pressure with a pressure gauge and inflating the tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended levels will usually resolve the warning.
Identify possible causes behind warning lights and vehicle symptoms.
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