As the weather starts to cool down in the fall, it’s common for drivers to notice their tire pressure warning light popping on, even if their tires looked fine all summer. This can be confusing and a little frustrating, but there’s a simple reason behind it.
Air contracts when it gets cold, which means there’s less air pressure inside your tires after a chilly night. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tire pressure can drop about 1 to 2 psi (pounds per square inch). A tire that was properly inflated during the warmer months can suddenly look underinflated as the temps go down, triggering your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light.
It’s important to fill your tires to the correct pressure, and not just what’s stamped on the side of the tire. The number on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. You’ll find the right tire pressure for your car on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in your owner’s manual. Using the correct pressure keeps your tires wearing evenly and your car handling the way it should.
Underinflated tires wear out faster, especially on the edges. They can also hurt your fuel economy because your engine has to work harder to keep you rolling. Handling and braking aren’t as sharp with low tires, which can be a safety risk, especially if you need to stop suddenly or swerve.
If you top off your tires and the warning light returns after a few days, you might have a slow leak from a nail, a bad valve, or a damaged rim. Don’t ignore it – it’s better to get it checked out before it becomes a bigger problem.
If you’re not sure about your tire pressure, or if your warning light won’t stay off, stop by any Car Care Clinic location. Our ASE-certified technicians are always here to check your tires and answer your questions, making sure your vehicle stays safe on the road. We welcome your questions and are here to help every step of the way.
