Blog

Decoding Your Tire Pressure Monitoring System: What To Do When the Light Comes On

Blog Oct 11th, 2023

Imagine this: You’re cruising down the road in your Acura, savoring the drive when suddenly, a warning light on your dashboard demands your attention. It’s none other than the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) indicator, shining brightly. What does it mean, and what should be your next steps? Worry not; in this comprehensive guide, we’re here to unveil all the mysteries behind the TPMS indicator light and guide you through resolving any issues.

Understanding TPMS

Let’s commence by demystifying TPMS. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a pivotal safety feature in your Acura. Its mission is simple yet crucial: to keep a vigilant eye on your tire air pressure and alert you if it senses that your tires are running on low pressure – a potential hazard.

Why TPMS Matters

But why all the fuss about TPMS? Here’s why it’s a big deal, especially when you’re driving your beloved Acura:

  1. Safety First: Maintaining the correct tire pressure is non-negotiable when it comes to safety. Properly inflated tires offer superior grip and control, especially in less-than-ideal driving conditions.
  2. Saving Green: Optimal tire pressure also means better fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires increase resistance, translating to more trips to the gas station and more money spent.
  3. Longer Tire Life: Even tire wear, thanks to the right tire pressure, means your tires will live longer, saving you money in the long run.
  4. Eco-Friendly: Under-inflated tires, by reducing fuel efficiency, indirectly contribute to higher carbon emissions – something we’re all striving to reduce.

Deciphering the TPMS Code

When the TPMS indicator light illuminates, it’s alerting you to a potential tire pressure issue. The signal can mean any of the following:

  • Low Tire Pressure: The most common culprit behind the TPMS light is low tire pressure. It could be due to a slow leak, temperature fluctuations, or simply the natural loss of pressure over time.
  • Tire Puncture: A sharp object on the road could have punctured your tire, causing a rapid loss of pressure and triggering the TPMS alert.
  • False Alarm: Sometimes, the TPMS sensor itself might be acting up, sending false warnings or incorrect pressure readings.
  • Low Battery: Certain TPMS sensors have their own batteries, which may need replacement every few years. If they’ve run their course, the system can malfunction.

Blinking TPMS Light

When your TPMS indicator light blinks, it’s signaling something specific. Here are some common reasons for a blinking TPMS light:

  • Flashing Low Tire Pressure: A blinking TPMS light often indicates a severe drop in tire pressure. This could result from a significant leak, sharp object puncture, or sudden pressure loss.
  • Sensor Malfunction: In some instances, a blinking TPMS light might suggest a malfunction in one of the TPMS sensors. These sensors can occasionally send inaccurate readings or false warnings.

Cold Weather Caution

Before we delve into what to do when your TPMS light shines, let’s address how cold weather impacts tire pressure:

  • Temperature Drop: As temperatures plummet, so can your tire pressure. Cold weather causes the air inside your tires to contract, leading to lower pressure levels. This pressure drop can sometimes trigger the TPMS warning light.
  • Regular Checks: To keep your Acura’s tires in top shape, especially during chilly weather, make it a habit to check your tire pressure regularly. Most Acura vehicles provide optimal pressure ranges for various conditions in the owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door frame.

What to Do When TPMS Strikes?

Now, the action plan for when your TPMS light turns on:

  1. Tire Inspection: First, find a safe spot to pull over and give your Acura’s tires a visual inspection. A reliable tire pressure gauge will assist you in assessing the air pressure in each tire, including the spare.
  2. Inflate as Needed: If your examination reveals that one or more tires are significantly under-inflated, it’s time to become your Acura’s personal mechanic. Add air until they’re back to the recommended pressure levels. You can typically find these figures in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on a convenient sticker inside the driver’s side door frame.
  3. Examine for Injuries: While scrutinizing your tires, be on the lookout for any visible signs of harm – like nails or screws embedded in the tire’s tread. If you spot any damage, schedule a rendezvous with a professional for repairs or replacements.
  4. TPMS Reset: After your tire inflation or addressing any tire issues, you may need to reset the TPMS system. Consult your owner’s manual for precise instructions, as the process can vary from one Acura model to another.
  5. Expert Assistance: Should the TPMS light persist, even after your pressure checks and adjustments, it’s time to seek the expertise of our service center at Camco Acura. We can diagnose any underlying issues, such as finicky sensors or system malfunctions, and get your Acura back in top form.

The TPMS indicator light might be a small part of your Acura’s dashboard, but the safety it ensures cannot be understated. When that light turns on, it’s your cue to investigate and act promptly. Ignoring it could mean trouble, from safety concerns to reduced fuel efficiency and premature tire wear. By deciphering the TPMS light’s language and reacting effectively, you’ll keep your Acura and its tires in peak condition, ensuring a safer and more efficient journey on the road. Drive safely, Acura enthusiasts!

Camco AcuraBlogDecoding Your Tire Pressure Monitoring System: What To Do When the Light Comes On