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Last updated 5/26/2025 - Originally published 5/26/2025
Written by SimpleTire, Expertly reviewed by Brett Antosh
Flashing Tire Pressure Light? Here's What to Do
Your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is more than just a dashboard icon it’s a built-in safety net that informs you about your tire health. Designed to track air pressure in real-time, the TPMS lets you know when a tire’s pressure drops too low, helping you avoid issues like poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, or even a potential blowout.
One of the most common alerts is a flashing TPMS light. It might be easy to brush off, but that little blinking symbol is your car’s way of saying something needs attention. Whether it’s a simple drop in pressure due to cold weather or a more serious sensor issue, it’s important to know what’s happening and how to respond.
In this article, we’ll break down the most likely reasons your TPMS light is flashing and walk you through how to troubleshoot or fix the problem. By the end, you’ll be confident to keep your tires properly inflated and your drive safe and smooth.
What is a Flashing Tire Pressure Light?
A flashing tire pressure light is your car’s way of waving a red flag it’s not something to ignore. While a solid TPMS light usually means one or more tires are underinflated, a flashing light often points to a bigger issue, like a sudden pressure drop or a problem with the system itself, such as a faulty sensor.
This kind of alert usually means your tire pressure monitoring system isn’t working properly, and that could put your safety at risk. Underinflated tires can seriously affect how your vehicle handles, how long it takes to stop, and even increase your chances of a blowout.
If you see that flashing light, don’t wait. Pull over somewhere safe, check your tire pressure, and look for visible damage. If everything seems fine but the light keeps blinking, it’s a good idea to have your TPMS inspected by a professional. Catching the issue early helps you stay safe and avoid costly tire damage.
How to Fix a Flashing Tire Pressure Light
Step 1: Check Tire Pressure
When your tire pressure light turns on, the first thing you should do is check the air pressure in all four tires, and don’t forget the spare if it’s equipped with a sensor. Driving with low tire pressure can affect everything from fuel economy to braking performance, so taking a few minutes to inspect your tires is well worth it.
How to Use a Tire Pressure Gauge
Start by removing the valve cap from the tire. Press your tire pressure gauge onto the valve stem firmly to get a good seal this prevents air from escaping and ensures an accurate reading. Once you see the pressure reading, jot it down and repeat the process for each tire. This will give you a clear picture of where things stand.
Compare Your Readings
Next, compare your numbers to the recommended PSI for your vehicle. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. These recommendations are tailored to your specific vehicle and take into account weight and tire size.
Adding Air (Or Letting Some Out)
If any tires are underinflated, grab an air compressor and slowly add air, checking your progress. It’s better to add air gradually than to overfill and then have to release some. Overinflated tires can be just as problematic as underinflated ones, causing stiff rides and uneven wear.
Keeping your tires properly inflated not only helps your car handle better but also improves gas mileage and extends the life of your tires, making this quick check a smart, simple part of staying safe on the road.
Step 2: Inspect the TPMS Sensors
After you’ve checked and adjusted your tire pressure, it’s time to look closer at your TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors. These small but important devices monitor your tire pressure and send real-time data to your vehicle’s system. If a sensor malfunctions, it can cause the tire pressure light to flash or send inaccurate readings.
How to Spot a Problem
Start by visually inspecting each valve stem, where most TPMS sensors are located. Look for signs of physical damage, like cracks, corrosion, or a loose fit, which can affect performance. Sometimes, the issue isn’t visible; sensors can fail due to internal battery depletion or road impact damage.
Knowing When to Replace a Sensor
If a sensor is damaged, worn out, or no longer communicating properly with your vehicle, it might need to be replaced. A failing sensor can’t deliver accurate pressure readings, undermining the system. Replacing it typically involves removing the tire to access the sensor and installing a compatible replacement. Once a new sensor is in place and properly synced, your TPMS should return to normal function, ensuring you continue to get reliable tire pressure alerts and drive with peace of mind.
Step 3: TPMS Reset the TPMS Button
After confirming your tire pressure and inspecting the sensors, the final step is resetting your TPMS to turn off the flashing light. This process helps the system recalibrate and recognize the updated tire pressure data.
Finding the Reset Button
The TPMS reset button isn’t always easy to spot. It’s usually under the steering wheel, inside the glove box, or hidden behind the dashboard trim. If it doesn’t stand out right away, take your time and consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its exact location.
How to Reset the System
Once you’ve located the button, follow your vehicle’s specific reset steps. Most cars require you to turn the ignition to the "on" or accessory position (without starting the engine), press and hold the reset button until the TPMS indicator flashes or turns off, then wait a few minutes while the system resets. Some vehicles may need a short drive to complete the process.
Let Your Owner’s Manual Be Your Guide
Your owner's manual is your best friend during this step. It outlines the exact reset procedure for your make and model and provides extra tips if the light doesn’t turn off immediately. Following the correct reset process helps your TPMS function as intended, keeping tabs on tire pressure and keeping you safe on the road.
Step 4: Drive to Recalibrate
Once you’ve adjusted your tire pressure and inspected or reset the sensors, it’s time for a short drive to help your vehicle’s TPMS fully sync with the updates. This step allows the system to recalibrate and confirm that everything works.
Recalibrating on the Road
Head out and drive at a steady pace of about 50 mph for roughly 10 minutes. This continuous drive gives the TPMS enough time to refresh its readings and recognize the corrected tire pressure levels. Keeping a consistent speed helps ensure the system gathers accurate data.
Watch for the TPMS Light
During your drive, keep an eye on your dashboard. The flashing TPMS light should turn off if everything's been addressed correctly. That’s your vehicle’s way of confirming the issue is resolved. If the light stays on or starts flashing again, there may still be a problem with the sensors or pressure levels that need further attention.
Why This Step Matters
That short drive might seem minor, but it plays a big role in ensuring your TPMS is back in sync and functioning properly. Verifying that the system gives you accurate readings ensures safer driving and helps your tires wear evenly, saving you money and stress.
Step 5: Consult a Professional
If your TPMS light flashes after you’ve gone through all the standard fixes, it’s time to call a professional. A persistent warning light can point to deeper, more technical issues that require expert attention to properly diagnose and repair.
Why Seeing a Pro Matters
Certified technicians have the tools and know-how to get to the bottom of complex TPMS issues. They can access your vehicle’s electronic systems and sensor network to identify hidden problems a visual check might miss. Getting professional help means you’re less likely to face recurring issues down the line.
What Happens During a Diagnostic Check
When you bring your vehicle in, the technician will likely:
- Use advanced diagnostic tools to read your vehicle’s computer system error codes. These codes reveal specific issues within the TPMS or related systems.
- Inspect the tires and sensors closely to check for any damage, electrical faults, or aging sensors that may be triggering the warning light.
- Share their findings and recommendations so you understand what needs to be done, whether it’s a simple reset, sensor replacement, or system recalibration.
Peace of Mind Moving Forward
By having a pro handle the issue, you’re ensuring the TPMS functions reliably and continues to keep you safe on the road. It’s also a great opportunity to get your whole tire system checked to avoid more serious problems later. Regular maintenance can go a long way in preserving your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
When your tire pressure light starts flashing, it’s more than just a minor inconvenience; it’s your car’s way of telling you something that needs attention now. Ignoring it can lead to reduced handling, longer stopping distances, and premature tire wear. Taking action quickly not only protects your safety but also helps keep your tires in good shape and your vehicle running smoothly.
Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the easiest and most important ways to maintain driving comfort and control. When tires are at the right pressure, they grip the road better, handle more predictably, and even help improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance. Checking and adjusting your tire pressure regularly ensures you get the most out of every mile.
It’s also smart to include tire and TPMS checks in your routine vehicle maintenance. Regular inspections can catch small issues before they become big and help confirm your TPMS sensors are still doing their job. These simple steps go a long way toward preserving your tires and ensuring your vehicle stays safe and reliable.
Understanding what a flashing TPMS light means and knowing how to respond puts you in control. And when it’s time to replace or upgrade your tires, SimpleTire is here to help. Browse our wide selection online, find the best deals for your vehicle, and drive confidently, knowing your tires are in top shape.