Does constantly seeing your TPMS light come on bother you to no end? Temperature change, of course, mostly creates this ruckus and a tire pressure adjustment usually remedies this. So, what is the point of having these if they are such a nuisance? Statically, 80% of vehicles on the road have at least one under-inflated tire. This one tire can lead to safety and handling issues, tire wear, and higher fuel usage. In many cases, it is the cause of an accident. So, in hope of reducing accidents, the TREAD Act became law.
The TREAD Act of 2000, requires all new passenger vehicles to be equipped with TPMS, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The TPMS monitors tire pressure in all four tires. Spare tires are not required to have TPMS so your spare may or may not have a sensor. The TPMS will alert you with a warning light indicator when tires are underinflated by 25% or more or if there is a system malfunction. The light may also come on if incompatible tires are installed on the vehicle. The light is designed to stay on until the problem is corrected.
So what if I have a problem and my TPMS is on? If your light is on, reading your owner’s manual will give you information on what to do. Generally, if the light stays on then it means one or more tires are underinflated. Inspect all your tires and check air pressures for proper specifications. If the light comes on and flashes and then goes out for 3 seconds, it usually indicates a problem with the TPMS system and will require a diagnosis.
A Simple question, that especially new drivers may overlook; how do I know what my tire pressure should be? Check your door frame for a specification chart, similar to the chart below. Do NOT use the specifications listed on the tire. Tire pressures may drop about 1 psi per 10-degree temperature drop and tires can slowly lose air naturally around the rim over course of a couple of months so it’s not uncommon to have to add air several times through out the year.
A tire inspection during your routine oil change can catch many issues before they become an issue. We routinely see uneven wear patterns, feathering, cupping, and screws in tires. These are a concern since no one wants to change a spare tire, especially in cold temperatures. A few tips to help you get ready for cold weather.
For more tire tips and video, click here to read our previous blog
Now thru December 31, 2014
we are offering a combo pack with lube, oil and filter change (up to 5 qts of stock oil), tire rotation and inspection, as well as a brake inspection and maintenance check list for $64.99. And our Winter special that includes all the above plus checking starting and charging system for only $89.00. Call today for your appointment.
