Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light: Arizona Heat and Cold Mornings

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light illuminates primarily due to changes in tire pressure, often triggered by the significant temperature swings common in Arizona. Cold mornings can cause tire pressure to drop, while hot afternoons can increase it, both potentially activating the warning light. It's crucial to check your tire pressure promptly when the light appears.

Why Your TPMS Light Comes On

Arizona weather, with its scorching summer days and cooler winter mornings, is a prime culprit for TPMS light activation. Tires are filled with air, which expands when heated and contracts when cooled. A drop of just 10 degrees Fahrenheit can cause tire pressure to decrease by about 1 PSI (pounds per square inch). If your tires were at the minimum recommended pressure on a warm day, a sudden cold morning could cause them to fall below the safe threshold, triggering the TPMS light.

Conversely, driving on underinflated tires in extreme heat can cause the tire's internal temperature and pressure to rise excessively, leading to potential damage or failure. The TPMS system is designed to alert you to these changes, helping you maintain optimal tire health and driving safety.

Checking Your Tire Pressure Correctly

When your TPMS light comes on, the first step is to check your tire pressure. For the most accurate reading, check your tires when they are "cold" – meaning the vehicle hasn't been driven for at least three hours, or for less than a mile at moderate speed. Here's how:

1. Find the recommended pressure: Look for the tire placard, usually located on the driver's side door jamb, inside the glove box, or in your owner's manual. This placard lists the manufacturer's recommended cold tire inflation pressure for your specific vehicle.
2. Use a reliable gauge: Remove the valve cap from a tire and press the tire gauge firmly onto the valve stem. Read the pressure indicated.
3. Adjust as needed: If the pressure is too low, add air until it matches the recommended PSI on the placard. If it's too high, gently press the center pin on the valve stem to release air until it reaches the correct level.
4. Repeat for all tires: Don't forget the spare tire if your vehicle is equipped with a full-size spare that is part of the TPMS system.
5. Reset the TPMS: After adjusting the pressure in all tires, drive your vehicle for a few miles. The TPMS light should turn off. If it doesn't, or if your vehicle requires a manual reset procedure, consult your owner's manual.

Heat, Tire Age, and Dirt Road Punctures

Beyond temperature fluctuations, several other factors can contribute to TPMS alerts or actual tire problems:

• Heat and Tire Age: Over time, tires degrade, and their ability to withstand extreme heat can diminish. Old, worn tires are more susceptible to blowouts, especially when driven underinflated in Arizona's high temperatures. Regular tire inspections are crucial, especially as tires approach their recommended lifespan.
• Dirt Road Punctures: Globe, Arizona, is surrounded by areas with unpaved roads. Driving on dirt or gravel roads increases the risk of punctures from sharp rocks or debris, which can lead to a rapid or slow leak and trigger your TPMS light. If you suspect a puncture, it's best to have your tires inspected by a professional.

When It's a Sensor Problem

If you've checked and adjusted all your tire pressures to the recommended levels, and the TPMS light remains on or flashes, it might indicate a problem with one of the TPMS sensors. These sensors are small electronic devices located inside each tire that transmit pressure data to your vehicle's computer. They can fail due to:

• Battery Depletion: TPMS sensors are battery-powered, and like any battery, they have a limited lifespan, typically 5-10 years.
• Damage: Potholes, curb impacts, or improper tire mounting can damage a sensor.
• Corrosion: Exposure to moisture and road salts (though less common in Globe) can corrode sensors.

Diagnosing and replacing a faulty TPMS sensor requires specialized tools and expertise. Our service technicians at Horne Nissan and Horne Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram are equipped to diagnose TPMS issues accurately.

Professional Service for Your TPMS and Tires

Whether you drive a Nissan or a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle, our service departments in Globe, AZ, are here to help. Our certified technicians can inspect your tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation, as well as diagnose any TPMS sensor malfunctions.

For Horne Nissan owners: Please call our service department at 928-793-5581 or submit a service request form on our website to schedule your appointment. Our service hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

For Horne Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (Mopar) owners: You can conveniently schedule service online using our Dealer-FX system, or call us at 928-793-5581. Our service hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Both of our dealerships are located at 2046 E Highway 60, Globe, AZ 85501. Regular tire maintenance is key to safety and extending the life of your tires. We look forward to assisting you with all your tire and TPMS needs.

Our Commitment to Service

At Horne Nissan and Horne Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we strive to provide excellent service. As R. Wickwire shared, "David Ray was an easy guy to connect with - No pressure. After sale support with Horne associates is exceptional." And C. Joy noted, "Horn auto staff was excellent. Service Manager Nikki kept me updated on the repairs of my vehicle, Technician Mike diagnosed the problem and back on the road in no time." We aim to get you back on the road safely and efficiently.

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