TPMS Warning Light in Cold Weather
Cold weather commonly triggers the Tire Pressure Monitoring System warning. This overview explains why and what the warning generally means.
Most passenger vehicles sold in Canada since 2008 are equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Transport Canada requires these systems to alert the driver when tire pressure drops noticeably below the recommended level.
Why Cold Weather Triggers the Warning
As temperature drops, the air inside a tire contracts. A commonly cited figure is a change of about 1 psi for every 5°C change in ambient temperature. A noticeable overnight temperature drop can reduce tire pressure enough to trigger the TPMS warning the next morning.
What to Do
- Check the recommended cold inflation pressure on the driver side door jamb sticker.
- Inflate each tire to that pressure using a reliable pump and gauge.
- Drive for several minutes. Most TPMS systems will clear the warning after the system re reads pressure.
- If the warning returns within a short time, a tire may have a leak or a damaged valve and should be inspected by a qualified technician.
A Flashing TPMS Light
A TPMS light that flashes at start up and then stays illuminated usually indicates a fault in the system itself, such as a dead sensor battery. Tire pressure sensors have a finite service life. If you see this pattern, have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician.