Why Is My Tire Pressure Light on When It’s Cold?
You bundle up on a rare chilly morning in Florida and head into your car. But when you start it up, there’s a light on your dashboard showing that your tires are low on air.
Does that story sound familiar? This time of year, it’s one we hear frequently at our auto shop.
So why is your tire pressure light on in cold weather? How do you respond? We’ll help you understand the answers to these questions, so you can be prepared this winter season!
What Is a TPMS Light?
Your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) helps to inform you when your tire pressure is too low. Cars built after 2007 are required to have this system, so your car most likely has TPMS. Most people are aware of this system thanks to the low tire pressure light.
The low tire pressure light is an image of a tire-like “U” shape with an exclamation point in the middle. This light comes on when one or more of your tires are significantly deflated.
While it varies from car to car, tires should have a pressure of somewhere between 30–35 PSI. So if you have a tire pressure of 28 or lower, this is when the light will turn on.
More modern vehicles may even show you each tire’s PSI on your dashboard when the light comes on, so you don’t have to check it manually.
How the Weather Impacts Car Tire Pressure
On a cold winter morning, you may start your car and see that your tire pressure light is on. While you may be worried about a leak, this is often not the case. In fact, every 10-degree drop in temperature can cause your tire’s pressure to lower by 1 PSI. So if a sudden cold front appears, you could see your low tire pressure light come on.
Usually, if multiple tires have low pressure, it is more likely that it’s the cold weather rather than a leak. That’s not to say it can’t be a leak, but don’t panic if you see the low tire pressure light on a colder morning.
Does Florida Get Cold Enough to Affect Tires?
With the infamous hot Florida weather, you may not think your tires are in any danger of lower pressure due to cooler temperatures. However, certain parts of Florida, especially Gainesville, can get quite cold in the fall and winter seasons. So, you have to prepare your car for the cold weather and know what to expect, especially with your tire pressure.
What to Do if a Low Tire Pressure Light Is On
If your low tire pressure light is on when the cold comes, you can take the following steps:
- Find a tire pressure gauge, either at home or at your local gas station.
- Fill up low tires to the correct PSI. This number should be on the inside of your driver-side door. Do not overfill it—over-inflated tires are also a problem. Some gas stations will provide tire air checks and filling for free.
- Your light should go off automatically or after restarting the car.
- If the light continues to come on, you may have a tire leak and will have to replace your tire.
Typically, cold weather won’t cause your tire pressure to get so low that it’s completely unsafe to drive. Short distances to a gas station or auto shop should be fine, but you should avoid highways or long distances until they’re back to the correct PSI. If your PSI is 20 or lower or your tire is visibly flat, do not drive until you can fill the tires up with air.
Keep Your Tires Rolling This Winter with City Auto Repair
From the summer heat to the winter cold, City Auto Repair’s goal is to keep your ride safe and comfortable. Our team are tire experts and can help you diagnose any issues, recommend the best tires for your car and needs, and even install the new wheels. So get in touch with us today to find the right tires for you and your family this winter season!