Have you ever started your car and noticed the flashing tire pressure light on your dashboard? If so, you’re not alone. Many drivers experience a tire pressure light blinking, leaving them wondering: “Why is my tire pressure light flashing?”
The tire pressure monitoring system light flashing can show a serious problem. It may involve your TPMS sensors, tire pressure levels, or the TPMS module.
Whether your tire pressure light is blinking due to cold weather or won’t turn off, this guide explains the causes. It also covers common OBD2 codes and how to reset it with an OBD device like Carista.
What Is the Tire Pressure Light?
The tire pressure light is part of your vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), designed to alert you when tire pressure drops below the recommended level.
There are two main types of TPMS:
- Direct TPMS: Uses individual tire pressure sensors to measure actual PSI levels.
- Indirect TPMS: Relies on the ABS system to detect changes in tire rotation speed caused by underinflation.
If your tire pressure sensor is flashing, it means there is a malfunction within the system, not just low pressure. A solid TPMS light usually means one or more tires need air, while a tpms light flashing or tpms blinking indicates a potential sensor failure or system error.
Why Is My Tire Pressure Light Blinking?
If you’re wondering, “why is the tire pressure light blinking?”, here are the most common reasons:
1. Low Tire Pressure
A low tire pressure light blinking could mean your tires are underinflated. If the temperature drops suddenly, your flashing air pressure light may be due to cold weather affecting tire pressure.
2. TPMS Sensor Failure
A tire pressure sensor flashing is often a sign of a failing TPMS sensor. These sensors have batteries that typically last 5-10 years. Once the battery dies, the system can no longer read tire pressure correctly, causing a blinking tire light.
3. TPMS Needs Reset or Recalibration
If you recently rotated your tires, replaced a sensor, or installed new wheels, the system may require a reset. A Toyota tire pressure light blinks and then stays on. This could mean the TPMS needs reprogramming after you change a tire.
4. TPMS Control Module Malfunction
If the tpms light is blinking, but tire pressure is fine, your vehicle’s TPMS module could be malfunctioning. This can cause a flashing low tire pressure light even when the sensors are working correctly.
5. Extreme Weather Conditions
Cold weather can make the low air pressure light blink. Hot weather can sometimes cause the flashing tire light to come on because of higher tire pressure.
Most Common OBD Codes for TPMS Issues
If your tire pressure light is blinking, you can scan your car with an OBD2 Scanner like Carista. This will show you diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the problem. Common TPMS-related codes include:
- C0750 - C0799: TPMS sensor communication errors.
- C2121 - C2124: Sensor ID mismatch or missing sensor.
- B1247: TPMS system failure, often caused by a faulty control module.
If your flashing air pressure light is due to a sensor error, replacing or resetting the TPMS sensor might resolve the problem.
How to Reset Your Tire Pressure Light with Carista
If you’re asking, “how do you fix a blinking tire pressure light?”, an OBD2 scanner like Carista can help reset your TPMS system. Here’s how:
Step 1: Connect the Carista OBD2 Scanner
- Plug the Carista OBD2 scanner into your vehicle’s OBD2 port (usually under the dashboard).
- Turn on your vehicle to power the device.
Step 2: Open the Carista App & Scan for TPMS Errors
- Launch the Carista app on your phone.
- Select Diagnostics and check for TPMS-related fault codes.
- If the tpms light is blinking, note any detected errors before resetting.
Step 3: Reset the TPMS System
- In the Carista app, go to Service->TPMS (availability depends on your car model).
- Select Relearn TPMS or Register new TPMS IDs to sync them with the vehicle’s control module.
Step 4: Verify the Reset
- Drive for a few miles to allow the system to recalibrate.
- Check if the tire light flashing has turned off.
- If the tpms light blinking persists, inspect your tire pressure manually.
Read more about: How to Register Your TPMS Sensors?
Preventing Future TPMS Issues
To avoid flashing tire pressure light issues in the future:
- Check tire pressure monthly and maintain the recommended PSI.
- Rotate tires regularly to keep TPMS sensors calibrated.
- Replace TPMS sensors every 5-10 years.
- Use an OBD2 scanner to diagnose TPMS problems early.
Expert advice: Using an OBD2 scanner like Carista helps reset your flashing low tire pressure light without a trip to the dealership.
Why Is My Tire Pressure Monitor Light On When My Tires Are Fine?
A flashing TPMS light often signals a sensor issue, not low pressure. Dead sensor batteries (5-10 years lifespan), recent tire changes, or temperature shifts can trigger false warnings.
To fix it, check tire pressure manually, reset the system, or drive for 10-15 minutes. If the light stays on, use an OBD2 scanner like Carista to diagnose sensor faults.
FAQs About a Blinking Tire Pressure Light
Q: Why is my tire sensor light flashing?
A tire pressure sensor flashing means your TPMS system is malfunctioning, often due to a bad sensor or low battery.
Q: Why does my tire pressure light keep blinking?
A blinking tire pressure light that won’t turn off might indicate a TPMS control module issue or incorrect sensor installation.
Q: Why is my TPMS light blinking after a tire change?
A tire replacement or rotation can cause TPMS sensors to lose calibration. You may need to reprogram the sensors or reset the system using an OBD2 scanner like Carista.
Q: Why is my low tire pressure light blinking?
A low air pressure light blinking can be triggered by cold weather, a sensor fault, or a TPMS communication issue.
Q: How do I reset my flashing tire pressure light?
- Inflating all tires to the correct PSI.
- Driving at 30-50 mph for about 10-15 minutes.
- Using an OBD2 scanner to reset the system.
- Holding the TPMS reset button (if your car has one).
Q: Can i drive with low tire pressure light on?
It depends on how low the pressure is. If the light just came on and you don’t notice any handling issues, you may be able to drive a short distance to a gas station or service center to check your tire pressure. However, driving with significantly low tire pressure can lead to:
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Poor handling and stability
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Increased risk of a blowout
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Reduced fuel efficiency
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Uneven tire wear
Q: Why is my air pressure light blinking?
A flashing air pressure light indicates a TPMS problem, often requiring recalibration or a sensor replacement.
Conclusion
A flashing tire pressure light isn’t just a reminder to check your tires—it often signals a TPMS sensor or system malfunction. If you notice your tire pressure light blinking, use an OBD2 scanner like Carista to diagnose, reset, and fix the issue quickly.
Don’t ignore a tpms blinking warning! Check your tires, scan for errors, and keep your TPMS system functioning properly for a safer ride.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. We work hard to give you accurate and current information about OBD2 tools, diagnostics, and car issues.
However, details can differ for each vehicle.
**Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines and consider seeking professional assistance when dealing with complex or critical diagnostic issues.