During winter, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) icon tends to light up in the dashboards of more vehicles. The light alerts drivers to a problem, but most won’t know the underlying reason. And while it’s a good idea to visit a local auto service center to check the light, don’t be surprised if the cold weather is the cause of the problem.

Why the Cold Triggers Your Tire Pressure Dashboard Light

A car's TPMS warns drivers when the tires are not correctly inflated. Any deviation from the recommended pressure can activate this horseshoe-shaped icon.

Ask the experts in the auto service shop, and they'll tell you that for every 10-degree reduction in temperature, a car's tire pressure decreases by 1 to 2 PSI. This is due to molecules shrinking in cold weather. Conversely, molecules expand when it's hot. The low temperature results in a decreased volume of air inside the tire. Use a pressure gauge to routinely measure your tire's level of inflation.

What are the Dangers of Underinflated Tires?

Tires have to be at a specific pressure for them to perform as designed, so driving a car with underinflated tires can be dangerous. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed that vehicles with tires that are underinflated by 25 percent or more are at three times greater risk of being involved in accidents. The decreased tire pressure makes handling more difficult and can lead to overheated tires, which are susceptible to blowouts on the road.

Underinflation also causes tires to wear out faster than normal and can significantly lower a vehicle’s fuel economy. Drivers will spend more on gas until they bring their car to an auto service shop.

If you’re perplexed by any of the illuminated lights on your dashboard, head over to High Point Tire & Automotive in High Point, NC, and have their experts check it out. This family-owned auto service center has been in the business since 1985. They offer total car tuneups, oil changes, cooling system maintenance, and much more. Call 336-882-6215 or check out their website to learn more about their services.