If you see that little tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light pop up on your dash during your drive, it’s easy to ignore, especially if the car still feels fine, but should you really continue to drive?
At Safe T Tyre, we know how tempting it can be to push on without giving it much thought. However, ignoring your TPMS warning can lead to more than just a flat tyre, it can put your safety at serious risk.
What Is the TPMS Light?
The TPMS light is your vehicle’s way of telling you that you have an inflation problem with one or more of your tyres. It’s triggered when the tyre pressure drops below the manufacturer’s recommended level, usually by about 25% or more.
Some systems are direct (measuring exact pressure via sensors inside the tyres) while others are indirect (using wheel speed data to estimate a pressure drop). Either way, the warning light serves as a red flag that something isn’t right.
Is It Safe to Keep Driving?
The short answer…not really.
While your car might feel okay for a while, low tyre pressure can quickly lead to:
Poor handling and braking
Increased tyre wear
Higher risk of blowouts
Technically you can drive with the TPMS light on, but you really shouldn’t ignore it for too long. Even if it’s just a cold morning causing temporary pressure loss, it’s worth checking your tyres to be safe.
If the Light Comes On, Don’t Panic!
The first step is to check your tyre pressure using a reliable gauge. Make sure to do this when the tyres are cold for the most accurate reading. If you find that any of your tyres are indeed low on air, inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the vehicle’s manual.
If you’ve checked your tyre pressures and all appear normal but the TPMS light stays illuminated, it might indicate a malfunction within the system itself. In this case, consult with a qualified mechanic who can diagnose and rectify any issues.
What If My Car Doesn’t Have a TPMS?
If your vehicle is an older model, chances are it doesn’t have a tyre pressure monitoring system installed. That means you won’t get any warning if your tyre pressure drops dangerously low.
That’s where Safe T Tyre can help!
We offer reliable, aftermarket TPMS solutions that can be fitted to almost any vehicle, whether it’s a family car, 4WD, caravan, trailer or light commercial vehicle. With real-time pressure readings displayed right on your dashboard, you’ll always know the exact condition of your tyres.
Don’t Ignore the TPMS Light
Tyres are your only point of contact with the road, keeping them properly inflated is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay safe.
If your car doesn’t already have a TPMS, get in touch with the team at Safe T Tyre today. We’ll help you choose the perfect tyre pressure monitoring system for your vehicle and driving lifestyle. Shop online now or call 1800 499 383 to speak with our friendly staff.