Nov. 06, 2025
Each year, the first wave of cold weather causes widespread TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) alerts. If your dashboard warning light turns on during an unusually chilly morning, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong with your tires or wheels. More often, it’s simply the result of falling temperatures affecting the air pressure inside your tires. Here’s why your low tire pressure warning appears—and what you should do when it happens.
As temperatures drop, tire pressure naturally decreases—typically by about 1 PSI (pound per square inch) for every 10°F reduction. This doesn’t happen because air is leaking out; rather, the air inside the tire becomes denser in cold conditions, taking up less space. When the pressure falls below the recommended level, the TPMS light is triggered. Fortunately, this change is usually temporary. Once you start driving, the tires warm up, the air expands, and the pressure rises again.
Note: It’s normal for tires to lose around 1 PSI per month as small amounts of air seep through the rim and rubber. For this reason, checking and topping off tire pressure monthly is always recommended.
If the TPMS light remains on even after the tires warm up, inflate them to the proper pressure. Should the warning still persist, a TPMS reset may be necessary.
The tire pressure light—also known as the low-pressure indicator—is an essential part of a vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Depending on the vehicle, you may see one or two different dashboard indicators related to tire pressure.
The low-pressure icon resembles an exclamation mark inside a horseshoe-shaped, open-top tire symbol. This warning appears when the air pressure in one or more tires drops below the manufacturer's recommended level.
Some vehicles also include a separate TPMS system light. This indicator illuminates when there is a malfunction within the monitoring system itself—such as a dead sensor battery, a communication issue, or a damaged TPMS sensor.
If your vehicle does not have a dedicated TPMS system light, the low-pressure icon may flash instead. A flashing low-pressure symbol typically signals a system problem rather than a simple pressure drop.
Winter temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop significantly—sometimes by as much as 10 PSI. Depending on how cold it is, the TPMS light may turn off on its own once the tires warm up, the air inside expands, and the pressure returns to the recommended level.
Still, you should have your tire pressure checked as soon as possible. A TPMS warning indicates that your tires are currently under-inflated. This is especially risky in winter, when reduced pressure can compromise handling, reduce traction, accelerate tire wear, and negatively affect fuel economy.
It's not advisable to drive for long with the TPMS light on. Low tire pressure can reduce braking performance, impair handling, lower fuel efficiency, and cause sidewall damage or uneven tread wear. If the TPMS light remains on after inflating your tires, have the system inspected immediately—or switch to your spare if you know which tire is affected and get professional help as soon as possible.
Maintaining the correct tire pressure not only extends tire life by promoting even tread wear, but it can also improve fuel efficiency by up to 3.3%, helping you get more miles per gallon.
Sometimes, the TPMS light flashes because your vehicle's onboard computer cannot detect a sensor. This could happen if a sensor is damaged or if you are using a spare tire. While many spare tires include a TPMS sensor, some do not, which can trigger the warning light.
During colder months, it's recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month. In warmer seasons, checks may not need to be as frequent. You can measure your tire pressure manually using a gauge.
Check your vehicle's owner's manual or the sticker located on the inside of the driver's side door. This will indicate the manufacturer's recommended cold tire inflation pressure in PSI.
For the most accurate reading, measure your tire pressure in the morning or when the tires are cold. Use a tire pressure gauge—usually a metallic pencil-like device with a sliding scale and a valve connection—to check each tire individually.
Whether at a gas station or at home, make sure you can safely reach all four tires with the air hose.
Keep the cap in your pocket so you don't lose it while inflating the tire.
Press the air hose fitting firmly onto the tire valve. You should hear air entering the tire. If air escapes from the connection, reposition the nozzle for a secure fit.
Add air in short bursts, checking the pressure frequently. Not all compressors fill at the same rate. If you overinflate, you can release air by pressing the center pin inside the valve stem.
Screw the cap back on to prevent air from escaping and to keep dirt and debris out of the valve.
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