As fall is falling and taking temperatures with it, it’s not uncommon to see the tire pressure warning light illuminate on your vehicle’s dashboard. A warning light is always concerning, but this one is usually a straightforward issue tied to basic principles of physics, and the fact that the rubber meets the road.
Why It Happens

The main reason for this phenomenon lies in how air pressure behaves in response to temperature changes. Tires are filled with air, which expands when heated and contracts when cooled. When the temperature drops, the air inside your tires condenses, resulting in a decrease in tire pressure. This drop in pressure is detected by the vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which then triggers the warning light.
For every 10 degrees Fahrenheit drop in temperature, your tire pressure can drop by about 1 PSI (pound per square inch). This means a significant overnight temperature decrease can cause a noticeable dip in tire pressure, enough to trigger the dashboard alert.
What to Do About It
Check Tire Pressure Regularly: It’s crucial to monitor your tire pressure as seasons change. Use a reliable tire gauge to check the pressure against the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which can typically be found in the owner’s manual, on a sticker inside the driver’s side door, or by asking us.
Inflate Tires as Needed: If you notice that the tire pressure is below the recommended level, inflate the tires to the proper PSI.
Recheck After Driving: Sometimes the warning light may turn off after driving for a few minutes as the tires warm up and the air inside expands. However, don’t just rely on this; it’s still best to manually check and adjust tire pressure.
Maintain Overall Tire Health: Regular maintenance checks for tire wear and proper alignment can also helps you keep your tires in good condition, ensuring safer driving conditions year-round.
So don’t panic when you see the tire pressure warning light during colder weather. It’s usually not a cause for alarm. By understanding why this happens and knowing how to respond, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely through fall, winter, spring, and summer.
To learn about the warning lights on your dash, about tire care, or fall maintenance tips, we’re here to help. Read on our blog, or come in to Norris Automotive!