Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)
Last updated · How we research and review
One or more tires is significantly under-inflated (typically 25% below the recommended pressure).
What it means
The tire pressure monitoring system has detected low pressure in at least one tire. Under-inflation hurts braking, handling, and fuel economy, and is a leading cause of blowouts. A flashing TPMS light at startup (then steady) means the system itself has a fault, often a dead sensor battery.
Can you keep driving?
Yes, cautiously and briefly — drive directly to an air pump. If a tire looks visibly flat, the steering pulls, or you hear flapping, stop and fit the spare instead.
What to do now
- 1
Visually check all four tires for one that looks obviously low.
- 2
Inflate to the pressure on the driver's door-jamb sticker — not the number molded on the tire sidewall.
- 3
If the light stays on after inflating, drive above ~20 mph for a few minutes; some systems need motion to reset.
- 4
If a tire keeps losing pressure, have it inspected for a puncture or valve leak.
Likely causes
- • Slow puncture (nail, screw, valve stem leak)
- • Pressure drop from cold weather (about 1 PSI per 10°F)
- • Natural pressure loss over time (1–2 PSI per month)
- • Damaged wheel or bead leak
- • Faulty TPMS sensor (if the light flashes at startup)
Typical fix cost
$0–$2 for air; $20–$40 for a puncture repair; $50–$150 per TPMS sensor; new tire $100–$300
Ranges reflect mainstream US parts-and-labor pricing; your vehicle and region will vary.
Helpful next steps
Follow the driving guidance above first. These guides and tools can help once the car is safely stopped.