Your TPMS light (the horseshoe-shaped icon with an exclamation point) means one or more tires is significantly under-inflated — or the sensor itself has an issue. Most of the time it just needs air. Here's how to diagnose and fix it.
What triggers the TPMS light
The TPMS system triggers a warning when a tire drops approximately 25% below the recommended PSI — so if your spec is 35 PSI, the light comes on around 26 PSI. That's already significantly under-inflated, meaning the tire has likely been low for a while.
A solid TPMS light means one or more tires is currently low. A flashing TPMS light (especially on startup) usually means a sensor malfunction, dead sensor battery, or a sensor that was lost during a tire swap and never recalibrated.
Step 1: Check and inflate all four tires
Use a quality gauge to check all four tires cold (before driving more than a mile or two). Check the door-jamb sticker for the correct PSI — not the MAX on the sidewall. Inflate to spec.
After inflating, drive for a few minutes at highway speed. The TPMS light should go off on its own once the sensors register the correct pressures. If it stays on, one tire may still be low, or a sensor needs resetting.
Why the TPMS light keeps coming back
Slow leak: a nail, screw, or valve stem leak is losing air gradually. Find a tire shop to inspect and repair before the tire is flat.
Temperature drop: tire pressure drops roughly 1 PSI for every 10°F drop in temperature. A cold snap can trigger TPMS on a tire that was fine in warmer weather. Inflate to spec and it will stabilize.
Dead TPMS sensor: sensors have batteries that last 5–10 years. Once dead, the sensor has to be replaced — this is normal maintenance on older vehicles.
Post-swap sensor mismatch: if you recently had tires swapped, rotated, or replaced, the TPMS sensors may need to be relearned to match their new positions. Most shops do this automatically, but not all.
Is it safe to drive with the TPMS light on?
Short distance at low speed: yes, as long as the tire is not visibly flat. Get to a station or shop within a mile or two.
Highway driving: no. Under-inflated tires build heat at highway speeds and can delaminate or blow out without warning. If the TPMS light comes on at highway speed, slow down and exit as soon as safely possible.
Frequently asked
Can I reset the TPMS light myself?
Yes — on most vehicles, after inflating all tires to spec, drive at 50 mph for 10 minutes and the system will reset automatically. Some vehicles have a TPMS reset button (check your owner's manual). If it doesn't reset, a sensor issue is likely.
How much does TPMS repair cost?
Inflating tires: free or a few dollars at a gas station. TPMS sensor replacement: $50–150 per sensor installed, depending on the vehicle. TPMS relearn/reset after rotation: $10–30 at most tire shops.
Do I need TPMS on my vehicle?
Yes — TPMS has been federally required on all new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. since 2008. It's a safety system, not optional equipment.
Last updated 2026-06-27. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.