Symptoms
- Exclamation point inside a horseshoe shape lights up
- Car may feel slightly different in handling
- Usually no noise or smell
Likely causes
- CommonOne or more tires low on airOften from a slow leak, a nail, or seasonal temperature drops.
- CommonTemperature drop overnight or seasonal changeTire pressure drops about 1 psi for every 10°F decrease.
- PossibleSlow puncture or valve stem leakA small leak can gradually lower pressure over days.
- Less commonFaulty TPMS sensorSensors can fail or have dying batteries, especially on older cars.
What to do
- Check each tire's pressure with a gauge, including the spare if it has a sensor.
- Compare it to the number on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb, not the number on the tire itself.
- Add air at a gas station or with a home inflator to reach the recommended pressure.
- Check tires again after driving a few minutes, since pressure rises slightly when warm.
- Inspect tires for a visible nail, screw, or obvious damage while you're at it.
- If a tire keeps losing pressure over days, that points to a slow leak needing repair.
- Reset the TPMS light if your car requires a manual reset after adjusting pressure.
- If pressure holds fine and the light stays on, a sensor may need replacement.
Tools and parts
- Tire pressure gauge
- Air compressor or access to a gas station air pump
Tire valve stem or TPMS sensorSearch: “TPMS sensor for your car make and model”
When to call a pro
See a tire shop if a tire keeps losing air repeatedly, or if the light won't turn off after confirming all tires are correctly inflated.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.