If your TPMS warning light stays on even after inflating your tires, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues drivers face—especially after tire changes, wheel upgrades, or seasonal swaps.
In this guide, Axon Distribution explains the most common reasons why TPMS warning lights remain illuminated and what you can do to fix the problem quickly and safely.
What Is a TPMS Warning Light?
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is designed to alert drivers when tire pressure is too low or when the system detects a malfunction. When the warning light stays on, it usually means one of two things:
- A tire pressure issue
- A TPMS system or sensor issue
Understanding the difference is key.
7 Common Reasons Why Your TPMS Light Stays On
1. Tire Pressure Is Still Incorrect
Even a small pressure difference (2–3 PSI) can keep the TPMS light on.
What to do:
- Check pressure when tires are cold
- Inflate all tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (including the spare, if applicable)
2. Temperature Changes
Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop naturally.
Why it happens:
- Every 10°C (18°F) temperature drop can reduce tire pressure by ~1–2 PSI
This is extremely common in fall and winter.
3. TPMS Sensors Were Not Reset
After:
- Tire rotations
- Seasonal tire changes
- Wheel replacements
…the TPMS system often needs a reset or relearn procedure.
Important:
Each vehicle has a specific reset process—some manual, others requiring a diagnostic tool.
4. Dead or Weak TPMS Sensor Battery
TPMS sensors use sealed batteries that typically last 5–8 years.
Symptoms:
- TPMS light stays on
- Light flashes, then stays solid
- Random TPMS warnings
When the battery dies, the entire sensor must be replaced.
5. Incompatible or Incorrect TPMS Sensors
Using the wrong frequency, protocol, or unprogrammed sensor will trigger a warning.
Common issues:
- Aftermarket sensors not programmed correctly
- Incorrect sensor type for the vehicle
- Sensors cloned improperly
At Axon, we strongly recommend AXON SP-200 programmable TPMS sensors.
6. Damaged TPMS Sensor
Sensors can be damaged by:
- Corrosion
- Road debris
- Improper tire mounting
- Impact from potholes
Even if the tire holds air, a damaged sensor can fail to communicate.
7. TPMS System Fault (Not Tire Pressure)
If the TPMS light flashes for 30–60 seconds and then stays on, it usually indicates a system fault, not low pressure.
This requires:
- A diagnostic scan
- Sensor signal check
- Possible module or wiring inspection
How to Turn Off a TPMS Warning Light (Safely)
✔ Check and adjust tire pressure
✔ Drive for 10–15 minutes at highway speed
✔ Perform the TPMS reset procedure
✔ Scan the vehicle for TPMS fault codes
✔ Replace faulty or dead sensors if needed
⚠️ Never ignore a TPMS warning—it can affect safety, braking distance, and tire life.
Why Quality TPMS Sensors Matter
Low-quality or incompatible sensors can cause:
- Constant warning lights
- Communication errors
- Customer comebacks
- Extra labor costs
Axon Distribution supplies reliable TPMS solutions designed for:
- OE compatibility
- High signal accuracy
- Long battery life
- Professional installers and retailers
When Should You Replace TPMS Sensors?
We recommend replacing TPMS sensors when:
- They are 5+ years old
- Tires are replaced and sensors show corrosion
- Batteries are weak or dead
- Installing a new wheel set
Replacing sensors proactively saves time and avoids future issues.
Final Thoughts
A TPMS warning light staying on is not just an inconvenience—it’s a signal that something needs attention. Whether it’s pressure, programming, or a failing sensor, addressing the issue early helps maintain safety and performance.
If you’re a tire shop, installer, distributor Or Direct Clients, Axon offers dependable TPMS solutions built for today’s vehicles. Shop Here
