FAQs
What is TPMS?
TPMS stands for Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. It automatically monitors the air pressure inside your vehicle’s tyres and alerts you if any tyre becomes under-inflated or over-inflated.
Why is TPMS important?
TPMS helps maintain correct tyre pressure, which improves safety, tyre lifespan, fuel efficiency, and handling. Driving on under-inflated tyres increases the risk of blowouts and uneven tyre wear.
What does a solid TPMS light mean?
A solid (steady) TPMS light usually means one or more tyres are under-inflated. You should check and adjust tyre pressures as soon as possible.
What does a flashing TPMS light mean?
A flashing (blinking) TPMS light at start-up that later stays solid usually indicates a fault with the TPMS system, such as a failing sensor or communication error.
What causes the TPMS warning light to come on?
Common reasons include:
Low tyre pressure
Sudden temperature change
Slow puncture or leak
Faulty TPMS sensor or sensor battery
Tyre was recently replaced or rotated
Seasonal tyre change without sensor reset
Can I drive with the TPMS warning light on?
You can, but it’s not recommended. It may indicate low tyre pressure or a sensor fault. Driving without proper pressure can damage tyres or reduce safety.
Do TPMS sensors have batteries?
Yes. Most TPMS sensors have built-in batteries that last 5–10 years. Once the battery dies, the entire sensor needs replacement.
How do I reset my TPMS light?
Some vehicles reset automatically after correcting tyre pressures. Others require:
A TPMS reset procedure in the vehicle menu, or
Driving for a short distance, or
Resetting via a diagnostic tool
If the light stays on, a sensor may be faulty.
Can I replace tyres without replacing the TPMS sensors?
Yes, you can change tyres alone. However, if sensors are old or the battery is weak, it’s recommended to replace them at the same time to avoid future issues.
Do all cars have TPMS?
Yes, in the UK and EU, TPMS has been mandatory on all new passenger vehicles since November 2014. Many older vehicles also have TPMS fitted.What’s the difference between direct and indirect TPMS?
Direct TPMS: Uses pressure sensors inside each wheel to show accurate tyre pressure.
Indirect TPMS: Uses ABS wheel speed sensors to estimate pressure. Less accurate and usually doesn’t show exact pressure values.