Normal Tire Pressure Loss Isn’t a Warranty Repair

Currently Applies To: All models with TPMS

Do you have your vehicle with the low tire pressure indicator is on or has been coming on intermittently?  Before you start any sort of troubleshooting, keep in mind that the low tire pressure indicator is like the “low fuel indicator” for the tires.  It comes on only if the tire pressure drops below a certain threshold.  It’s not saying there’s a problem with the TPMS, so there’s no need for heavy troubleshooting yet.

To make things right, first check the tire pressures.  If they’re lower than the recommended cold inflation values listed on the driver’s doorjamb sticker, inflate the tires to their proper pressures.  If the low tire pressure indicator stays on after you’ve done that, drive the vehicle over 45 km/h for up to 1 minute — the indicator should go out.  If it goes out, you’re done!  If it stays on—or if you suspect there’s a leak—then it’s time to book an appointment.

What’s really important to remember here is that unless the tire pressure loss was due to an actual manufacturer defect, it isn’t covered by warranty.  That means inflating the tires to turn off the low tire pressure indicator isn’t a warranty repair.  Unless a system malfunction is suspected, a low tire pressure indicator shouldn’t mean a trip to the dealer.

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