Is your TPMS tire pressure monitoring system light flashing? Find out the usual suspects, troubleshooting steps, solutions you need to know, and answers for your most frequently asked TPMS light questions in this article.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The good news is if you’re driving a car that is less than three years old, you may have been alerted to this previously in the form of a message on your dashboard, a small symbol, specifically, a horseshoe shape with a, you guessed it, exclamation mark in the middle. This is the first time maneuvers have seen the Tire Pretire pressure monitoring system light illuminated. Though a solid TPMS light typically indicates one or more of your tires have low pressure, a flashing TPMS light is an entirely different beast. What does it mean? Should you be worried? Plus, what to do next?
This detailed guide is here to demystify your TPMS light, clarify whether the warning is flashing or steady, guide you through common causes and solutions, and answer your burning questions. Whether you drive a sedan, an SUV, or a full-size pickup truck, knowing how your TPMS works is not only important but can also save you time and money and help keep you safe.
What Is a tire pressure monitoring system light flashing ?
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a system of electronic components that allows you to monitor the amount of air pressure in your vehicle’s tires. Its main function is safety: According to CSP, underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, extra wear on tires, lower fuel economy, and even blowouts. TPMS assists in warning you of inadequate tire pressure before unsafe operation occurs.
TPMS comes in two types:
- Direct TPMS: Works with sensors in each wheel to measure the air pressure.
- Indirect TPMS determines tire pressure using information collected from the vehicle’s ABS (anti-lock braking system) and wheel speed sensors.
The driver is warned by a light flashing on the dashboard when a less-than-normal performance is detected.
Solid vs. Flashing TPMS Light: What is the Difference?
Before we get into the details of the flashing TPMS light situation, let’s first make a clear differentiation:
- Solid TPMS Light: If the TPMS light remains solid (not blinking), it indicates that your tire (s) are low-pressure. In that case, you will only need to put some air in the flat tire(s).
- Flashing TPMS Light: A blinking or flashing TPMS light indicates that the TPMS is not functioning, not a warning that the tire pressure is low. This is a clear indication that the system has an issue, and the logic may not be accurate anymore when checking your tire’s pressure.
Key Takeaway:
Steady/ Solid light = check your tires.
Flashing illuminated light = check your TPMS system.
Why is My TPMS Light Blinking?
A blinking TPMS light typically indicates asystem problemrevents it from accurately monitoring tire pressures. Common causes include:
Dead or Weak TPMS Sensor Battery
There are two types: direct TPMS with a battery operated sensor that installed in the wheel or indirect TPMS, Where individual battery-powered sensors in each wheel are replaced every time a tire is replaced. These batteries usually have a service life of 5–10 years. When one battery dies, the sensor ceases to communicate with the car’s computer system, resulting in a flashing light.
Faulty TPMS Sensor
The sensors can fail due to corrosion, physical damage (such as tire mounting), manufacturing defects, or old age.
TPMS Sensor Not Trained registered
Once you replace a sensor, rotate tires, or change to a new set of wheels, your vehicle will require a system reset. New sensors must also be re-registered with the car following a standard relearn procedure. Failure to do this can result in the system failing to detect the sensor and the light just flashing.
Interference or Signal Issues
TPMS Sensors TPM sensors transmit information wirelessly to the car’s onboard computer. This signal can be interfered with by added-on electronics or cell phone accessories that plug into the same cigarette lighter plug.
Bad TPMS Module or System Issue
The TPMS control module (the brains behind the system) can fail due to water damage, bad electrical connections, or internal faults.
Incorrect Sensor Type
Sensors are not compatible with all vehicles. If aftermarket sensors are not programmed / cloned to your car, they can cause system problems.
What’s wrong when your TPMS Light comes on and off?
Here’s how to find out the reason behind a TPMS light flashing:
Physically Inspect Your Pressures
Though the light might be flashing, make sure your tires are inflated to the PSI your car’s manufacturer recommends (this information can be found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker attached to the driver’s door).
Look for Obvious Damage
Look at your tires and valve stems for visual indications of damage or corrosion.
Make a note of Recent Services or Changes.
Have you just had new tires put on your vehicle, a tire rotation, or tire work performed? If so, the sensor may not have reinstalled/registered correctly.
Use a TPMS Diagnostic Tool
Many repair shops and auto parts stores offer TPMS scan tools that read sensor IDs, check battery life, and diagnose problems.
Look for other Warning Light prompts.
Sometimes, TPMS fails when ABS or traction control lights are on. This means a bigger issue related to the electrical system.
How Fix Flashing TPMS Light
The fix will be the correct one based on the cause:
: Install Dead or faulty sensors Only: Easy experience with an unhandy man and no professional to need. Replace Dead or Working Sensors.
If the sensor battery is completely dead or if it is faulty at all, you will have to replace it. Sensors are not serviceable; when the battery dies, the entire sensor is swapped out. Each new sensor needs to be registered or programmed into your vehicle (“Relearning”).
Relearn or Register Sensors
If you change or rotate tires, your car may also need TPMS relearn service. This usually entails a series of steps (like turning the ignition on and off, pressing buttons, or driving at a certain speed) spelled out in your owner’s manual. Certain vehicles will need a scan tool to finish this procedure.
Many problems are caused by wiring or modules that have gone bad.
If the control module or its wiring has gone bad, the car must be taken to a mechanic to d iagnose and fix the electrical problem. This could involve replacing the TPMS module or repairing a short circuit.
Verify the Compatibility of any Aftermarket Sensors
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If you’ve installed aftermarket wheels or sensors, confirm they’re compatible with your vehicle. Specific universal sensors must be programmed to fit your car’s system.
Clear Interference
If you can, remove or move electronic instruments that could confuse the TPMS signal.
Is It Okay to Drive with the TPMS Light Flashing?
- You can technically drive on with a flashing light, but you shouldn’t. Here’s why:
- If your light is flashing, the TPMS is not measuring your tire pressures.
- You could inadvertently drive on a wildly under or over-inflated tire, which increases the chances of a blowout or accident.
- TPMS is one of the safety features that have become standard in newer cars. It may need to be operational to pass inspection in some areas.
- You could experience lower fuel economy or uneven tire wear.
Taking care of the problem immediately is always best for your safety and sanity.
Preventing TPMS Problems
Here are a few maintenance tips for your TPMS:
- Use a reliable gauge to check your tire pressure once a month, even if the light is off.
- Have your sensors tested at tire service — particularly if your car or sensors are over 5 years old.
- When you replace tires or wheels, always use a compatible sensor.
- After you replace the tires or sensors, please follow the correct relearn procedure.
- Do not break valve s and pneumatic tires during cleaning.
The Cost of TPMS Repairs
The price to repair a blinking TPMS light can be anywhere from:
- We hope this isn’t the case, but chargers have been known to steal tires as well, and by then, you will know you have a blown sensor throughout your first couple of days on battery power with a lovely flat to round out the experience. Sensor replacement: $50-$150 per sensor, depending on the vehicle and sensor type.
- TPMS module replacement: $200–$600, depending on the cost of parts and labor.
- Relearning/resetting sensors is usually free with a tire service but could cost $20 to $50 at some shops.
- Diagnostic fee: $50 to $100 for troubleshooting complex issues requiring a scan tool.
Tips: Learn about what your warranty covers. If your car is new or certified pre-owned, bring it in if you have a TPMS issue, and your dashboard light is on.
TPMS and Seasonal Tire Swapping
If you have two sets of winter and summer tires, ensure both have compatible TPMS sensors installed. Tires without sensors (or with the incorrect sensors) swapped over will set off a flashing TPMS warning. Some cars let you store more than one set of sensors, while others must be relearned every time.
Fact or Fiction, here are some explanations of TPMS Myths.
Myth 1:
Meanwhile, a flash on a TPMS light might be safe to ignore if your tires look fine.
Reality: A warning light doesn’t mean the system can monitor your pressure, and you could be at risk.
Myth 2:
TPMS is all about convenience.
Fact: Tire pressure monitoring is a safety feature mandated by law in most parts of the world because underinflated tires are one of the most common causes of accidents.
Myth 3:
TPMS Sensors are a new car-only item.
Fact: TPMS has been required equipment for new passenger vehicles in the United States since the 2008 model year, but a variety of early 2000s cars have some form of TPMS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my TPMS light flash when I start my car and then remain on?
A TPMS light that blinks on at startup and then stays illuminated indicates that the system has detected a fault, such as a dead sensor battery or a sensor that is no longer functioning. The system goes solid after completing its self-check to indicate low pressure in one or more tires. In such a situation, there is not only a failure but also low tire pressure.
Can cold weather make the TPMS light flash?
Cold air can chill your tires, causing your tire pressure to fall and leading to a persistent, if justified, TPMS warning. The flashing TPMS light is more likely a sign of a faulty sensor or system than the weather itself. Using the negative, extremely cold can worsen ailing sensor batteries.
What is the lifespan of TPMS sensor batteries?
Most OE TPMS sensors are powered by batter ies that can last 5-10 years. Driving habits and the environment can sometimes affect a sensor’s operating life. The sensor must be replaced when the battery is discharged and not replaceable.
Can I change my own TPMS sensors?
So, if you’re proficient at breaking tires down, installing tire mounting equipment, and so on, you can change TPMS sensors. But for most, you have this done at a tire shop because sensors need to be installed (breaking the tire bead), a new sensor mount (mounting the sensor), and often, a scan tool to program or relearn the sensor.
Can I pass inspection with a blinking TPMS light?
In some areas, your vehicle may fail its safety inspection if a TPMS warning light is on or flashing, as this light shows that the safety system is no longer functioning. Always verify your state’s vehicle inspection laws and look into drilling the heat shield.
Conclusion
A blinking tire pressure monitoring system light is more than just a temporary annoyance—it’s a warning sign that something’s wrong with your car’s ability to monitor tire pressure. Whether a sensor battery went dead, sensor failure occurred, or something failed in the system, it is important to troubleshoot and resolve the problem immediately. It will keep you safer while on the road, you won’t have to spend money fixing those tires, and you can save gas in your car’s tank.
Do not take a flashing TPMS light for granted. Check your tire pressures, book a service appointment with a trained technician, and hit the road with peace of mind—knowing your tires and your TPMS are in tip-top shape!