Why Your Tire Pressure Light is On (Even After You Added Air)
It’s one of the most confusing moments for any driver — you fill your tires with air, yet the tire pressure warning light stubbornly stays on. While it might seem like a simple sensor glitch, there are several reasons this could happen. Let’s explore why your tire pressure light remains on and how to fix it safely.
1. Your Tires Haven’t Equalized Yet
After adding air, it can take a few minutes of driving for the pressure sensors to recalibrate. Modern TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors read pressure when the tires rotate, so the light might not turn off until you drive at least 5–10 minutes. If you filled your tires and immediately checked the dashboard, try driving for a bit to see if the light resets.
2. One or More Tires Are Still Underinflated
Sometimes, you might inflate your tires unevenly or miss a tire that’s slightly low. Check all four tires (and the spare if your vehicle monitors it) using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Compare your readings to the recommended PSI level printed inside the driver’s door or in your vehicle’s manual.
3. Temperature Changes Are Affecting Tire Pressure
Cold weather can reduce tire pressure by up to 1 PSI for every 10°F drop in temperature. So even if your tires were perfectly filled the day before, a sudden cold snap can trigger the warning light again. In such cases, top up your tires slightly to compensate for the weather fluctuation.
4. The TPMS Sensor Might Be Faulty
If you’ve verified all tires are at the correct pressure, a malfunctioning TPMS sensor could be the culprit. These sensors have batteries that wear out over time, typically lasting 5–10 years. A mechanic can test and replace faulty sensors if needed.
5. You May Have a Slow Leak
A nail, screw, or small puncture can cause a slow air leak that re-triggers your warning light within days. Apply soapy water to your tire surface and look for bubbling to spot small leaks. If found, get it patched as soon as possible to prevent a flat tire.
6. System Reset Might Be Needed
Some vehicles require a manual TPMS reset after refilling air. Check your vehicle’s user manual for instructions — this could involve holding down a reset button, using an infotainment system command, or driving at a set speed for a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
If your tire pressure light remains on despite adding air, it’s essential not to ignore it. A persistent warning can signal deeper issues like leaks, faulty sensors, or temperature-related drops. Staying proactive ensures both your safety and your car’s performance. For reliable vehicle maintenance and professional car service in Jaipur, you can use autofy — the app for Car Service in Jaipur that helps you stay on top of your vehicle’s health with ease.