As fall approaches, temperatures around Central Texas change on a daily basis and tire pressures are directly influenced. Our Express Service Center sees concerns related to tire pressure daily and our Express Service Manager, Jacob Mathews, has a few pointers on what to do when the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alert turns on.
The TPMS is a system designed to inform the driver when the air pressure inside one or more tires decreases 20% under the recommended pressure level. Tire air pressure is essential in keeping the vehicle safe and efficient because it:
- Prevents traffic accidents due to under-inflated tires.
- Reduces tire abrasion, which makes the tires run cooler, last longer, have less rolling resistance and maintain fuel economy.
You’ll see the low pressure indicator like the one pictured when your tires are under-inflated. However, you will see the letters “TPMS” illuminate when the TPMS has a fault and may not be monitoring air pressure adequately.
Jacob explains that there are several reasons why tire pressure might change. You might run over a nail and have tire damage which will trigger the low pressure indicator, or the tire might have a small leak which needs to be addressed. Additionally, dramatic changes in outside temperature also influence tire pressure. In fact, for every 10 degree drop, tires lose 1psi of pressure, which is why many get a low pressure alert the morning after an overnight cold front.
If you do notice the alert in the morning, Jacob’s first suggestion is to verify all four tires visually. If they all seem to be under-inflated, a quick trip to the nearest gas station could resolve the problem. However, pay a visit to the Express Service Center, when:
- The alert still comes on or appears mid-drive,
- You’re not 100% sure the alert is due to changes in temperatures,
- A specific tire seems less inflated than the rest, or
- The TPMS light illuminates.
Since tires deflate naturally over time, we recommend you check your tire pressure once a month and before going on long road trips. You’ll find the recommended air pressure listed on the side of the driver’s door. However, be aware that these settings on the door are for cold tires; if the tires are warm to the touch, add 4lbs of pressure.
Jacob and his Express Service staff are extremely knowledgeable on all these systems in your Honda and can get your car back to optimum conditions. If you have any questions, call us or come by the Express Service Center. We are always glad to help.
Tags: austin honda, austin honda service, honda austin, honda service, honda service austin, tire pressure
