TPMS: What it is, why your light is on, and how we can help

If your vehicle was built after 2007, it has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The TPMS warning is a yellow exclamation point inside a tire shape on your dashboard. It turns on when any tire’s air pressure drops about 25% below the manufacturer’s recommended level.

A working TPMS helps you spot underinflation early, improving fuel economy, tire life, handling, and safety. Temperature swings can also change tire pressure, so TPMS can alert you when cold weather or heat causes a drop. For a quick refresher, watch our short video: TPMS overview.

When the TPMS light turns on: what to do now

• Safely check your tire pressure as soon as you can. Inflate to the vehicle manufacturer’s specification on the driver’s door placard.
• Stop by your local Discount Tire. We’ll check your TPMS system, inspect your tires, set the correct pressures, and reset the light at no charge.
• If the light stays on after pressures are set, your system may need a relearn (recalibration) or a sensor may need service or replacement.

Prefer a set time? Schedule an appointment or find a nearby location with the store locator.

Free TPMS and air checks

• Discount Tire provides complimentary TPMS checks, air pressure checks, tire inflation, and TPMS light resets at all of our stores.
• America’s Tire (our stores in California) offers the same complimentary TPMS services. Use the store locator to find a location near you.
• While many tire shops offer free air checks, not all provide TPMS diagnostics or resets at no cost. At Discount Tire/America’s Tire, both are free—walk in or book ahead.

Direct vs. indirect TPMS

Direct TPMS - Uses battery-powered sensors inside each wheel to read tire pressure and send it to your vehicle’s computer. - Triggers the dash light when pressure falls below about 25% of the recommended setting. - Can identify individual tire pressures on some vehicles. - Sensors are vehicle-specific and may need service over time. If components wear or corrode, see our TPMS rebuild kits.

Indirect TPMS - Uses ABS wheel-speed sensors to estimate when a tire is underinflated (a low tire spins faster). - Usually cannot show which tire is low. - Requires calibration after tire service or air adjustments to remain accurate.

TPMS sensor batteries and replacement

• Typical sensor battery life: about 6–10 years or 90,000–120,000 miles.
• The battery isn’t replaceable; when it dies, the sensor must be replaced.
• If one sensor battery has failed, the others may be close—replacing them together can prevent repeat warnings.
• Our technicians can install new sensors and program your vehicle to recognize them. Explore TPMS sensors and learn about TPMS service.

Why you still need monthly pressure checks

TPMS only alerts after a significant drop (around 25%). Even a 5% underinflation can reduce fuel economy and raise tire temperatures. Check your pressures monthly with a reliable gauge, and stop by for a free air check anytime.

• Learn how temperature affects tire pressure: Air pressure and temperature changes
• See recommended pressure practices: Tire pressure basics

Don’t have TPMS?

For vehicles built before TPMS was standard, you can add it with a TPMS retrofit kit.

Ready to clear your TPMS light?

• Walk in for a free TPMS/air check, or schedule an appointment.
• Find the closest store: Locate a Discount Tire or America’s Tire.

If you have questions or need help, just stop by—we’ll get you taken care of.