Falling Leaves, Falling Tire Pressure: Understanding the TPMS Light

It’s a crisp, cool autumn morning in Richmond. The leaves are turning shades of gold and red, and you’re starting your commute along Monument Avenue. As you enjoy the fresh air and scenic streets, your dashboard suddenly lights up—the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light is glowing. For a moment, you feel a pang of panic. Is it safe to keep driving? What exactly does this light mean?

This scenario is familiar to many drivers, especially as the temperatures drop during the fall in Richmond. Tire pressure can naturally decrease with cooler weather, which often triggers the TPMS light. Even if your tires were perfectly inflated during the warmer part of the day, the overnight chill could cause the pressure to dip below the recommended level.



What is the TPMS Light?

The TPMS light is an important safety feature in your vehicle that monitors tire pressure. If the system detects a significant drop in the pressure of one or more tires, the light will come on to alert you. While the cause could be as simple as a cold snap, it's crucial not to ignore this warning. Driving on under-inflated tires can lead to poor handling, increased tire wear, and even dangerous blowouts.

What to Do When the TPMS Light Comes On

1. Check Your Tire Pressure
   Find a safe place to pull over and manually check the pressure of all four tires using a tire gauge. Most vehicles have a recommended tire pressure listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual. If your European vehicle has specific tire pressure requirements, it’s essential to meet those standards for optimal performance.
2. Refill Your Tires
   If you find that your tires are under-inflated, refill them at the nearest gas station or auto shop. If you’re unsure or don’t have the proper tools, bring your car to Delta V Motors. We can perform a thorough tire inspection, refill your tires, and make sure everything is in top shape.
3. Keep an Eye on Recurring Issues
   If the TPMS light comes back on shortly after filling your tires, there may be a slow leak, puncture, or a problem with the TPMS sensor itself. In this case, it’s essential to bring your car to Delta V Motors for a more detailed inspection before the issue worsens.

How Richmond’s Climate Affects Tire Pressure

Richmond’s fall and winter seasons can bring sudden and sharp temperature changes, which directly affect your tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires can lose about 1 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure. That might not sound like much, but even slightly under-inflated tires can affect your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency—especially in European models that rely on precision performance.

Why Proper Tire Pressure is Important for European Vehicles

European cars are built with performance and safety in mind. Keeping your tires properly inflated not only ensures optimal handling but also helps you maintain fuel efficiency and prolong tire life. Many European vehicles are equipped with advanced TPMS systems that are sensitive to changes in tire pressure, so taking immediate action when the light comes on is critical to avoid further issues.

Visit Delta V Motors for Peace of Mind

At Delta V Motorsports, we specialize in the care and maintenance of European vehicles, so whether you're dealing with a TPMS light, a slow leak, or need new tires altogether, we’re here to help. Our team of experts understands the unique requirements of high-performance European models and can quickly diagnose and address any tire-related issues.

Don’t let a small dashboard light stress you out this fall. Visit us today for a tire inspection, refill, or repair. We’ll make sure your tires are properly inflated, and your car is safe and road-ready for all your autumn adventures.