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Honda TPMS Dash Light: How to Monitor Tire Pressure

Blog Oct 02nd, 2023

Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors

 

As winter approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your vehicle for the challenges that cold weather and slippery roads can bring. One often overlooked aspect of winter car maintenance is monitoring tire pressure. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors play a vital role in ensuring your safety on the road during the colder months. Today, we will explore what TPMS sensors are, why they are essential, and how to manage tire pressure during this winter season.

Understanding TPMS Sensors

 

TPMS sensors are a vital component of modern vehicles. They are designed to monitor the air pressure in your tires continuously. If the pressure falls below or rises above the recommended levels, the TPMS system alerts you through a dashboard warning light or a display on your vehicle’s infotainment system.

 

There are two types of TPMS sensors:

 

Direct TPMS: This type of sensor measures the actual tire pressure individually and sends this data to the vehicle’s computer system. It provides more accurate information and can detect sudden pressure drops.

 

Indirect TPMS: Indirect TPMS relies on the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) to estimate tire pressure by monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel. While it’s less precise than direct TPMS, it’s still effective for monitoring changes in pressure.

The Importance of TPMS Sensors in Winter

 

During the winter months, TPMS sensors become even more crucial for several reasons:

 

  1. Temperature Sensitivity: Cold temperatures can cause the air inside your tires to contract, leading to a decrease in tire pressure. For every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, tire pressure can decrease by 1-2 psi. TPMS sensors can alert you to these changes so you can adjust your tire pressure accordingly.

 

  1. Traction and Handling: Proper tire pressure is essential for maintaining traction and handling in snowy or icy conditions. Underinflated tires can reduce grip, making it harder to control your vehicle, while overinflated tires can result in reduced contact with the road surface, also affecting control.

 

  1. Preventing Blowouts: Wrong tire pressure, especially in colder weather, can lead to tire blowouts. A blowout in winter conditions can be extremely dangerous, as it can result in a loss of control over your vehicle.

 

  1. Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining proper tire pressure can also help improve fuel efficiency. In winter, when your engine may already be working harder due to cold weather, efficient driving becomes even more critical.
  1. Tips for Monitoring Tire Pressure in Winter  
    1. Regularly Check Tire Pressure: Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Consult your vehicle’s manual for the recommended pressure levels, which can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual.

     

    1. Cold Weather Adjustments: Keep in mind that you may need to adjust your tire pressure in cold weather. As a rule of thumb, for every 10-degree Fahrenheit temperature drop, consider adding 1 psi of pressure to your tires. Conversely, if the weather warms up, you may need to reduce tire pressure.

     

    1. Keep an Eye on TPMS Warnings: Pay attention to your vehicle’s TPMS warnings. If the system alerts you to low tire pressure, address it promptly by inflating your tires to the recommended levels.

 

Blinking vs Solid TPMS Dash Light 

 

  1. Solid TPMS Dash Light: A solid lit TPMS dash light means that one or more of your tire’s pressure is too low or too high. Adjust the pressure based on the sticker inside your driver’s side door, or the owner’s manual. 

 

  1. Blinking TPMS Light: A blinking or flashing TPMS light means that one or more of your Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors are failing and need replacing. Schedule a visit with Civic Motors Honda to fix your TPMS system. 

Conclusion

 

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors are an invaluable tool for safe winter driving. By keeping your tires properly inflated, you can enhance your vehicle’s handling, reduce the risk of accidents, and improve fuel efficiency during the winter months. Make sure to regularly check your tire pressure, adjust it as needed for colder temperatures, and heed your TPMS warnings to keep your winter journeys safe and stress-free. With TPMS sensors and proper tire maintenance, you can confidently navigate the challenges of winter roads.

FAQ 

 

  1. Does TPMS light come on for high tire pressure?
    Yes, TPMS systems will let you know if your tire pressure is too high and needs to be adjusted. 
  1. How much air do I fill my car tire with?
    This depends on your make and model, this can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual.  
  1. What does a solid vs flashing TPMS dash light mean? 

A solid TPMS dash light indicates that your tire’s pressure needs to be adjusted immediately. A flashing light means one or more of your Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors needs to be fixed immediately. 

 

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