When temperatures drop, the air inside tires contracts, leading to lower pressure. This can trigger the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to illuminate a warning light on the vehicle’s dashboard. For instance, a vehicle with properly inflated tires at 70F might trigger the TPMS on a 30F morning.
Maintaining correct tire pressure is crucial for safe and efficient vehicle operation. Underinflation increases tire wear, reduces fuel economy, and negatively impacts handling. The TPMS, introduced as a safety feature in the late 20th century and mandated in the U.S. for all new passenger vehicles since 2007, plays a vital role in alerting drivers to potential pressure issues, especially during seasonal temperature fluctuations.