News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions twice per week in a segment called “Ask Trooper Steve.”
On Tuesday, Trooper Steve was asked about tire pressure on cars.
“You know that moment when you’re running late, you hop in the car, start it up and BING! That little orange tire icon pops up on your dashboard?” Montiero said. “Before you panic or assume you’ve got a flat, take a deep breath. The chilly weather is likely the real culprit.”
As temperatures drop, so does the air pressure inside your tires. It’s basic science: when air gets cold, it contracts. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tire pressure can drop by about one pound per square inch (PSI). That small change is often just enough to trigger your car’s tire pressure monitoring system.
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So, no, your car isn’t breaking down. It’s just doing its job.
When that light comes on, it’s your vehicle’s polite way of saying, “Hey, I could use a little air.” Most of the time, topping off your tires at the nearest gas station will solve the issue. The manufacturer’s recommended pressure can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in your owner’s manual, not on the tire itself (well, maybe sometimes).
It’s also worth remembering: proper tire pressure isn’t just about turning off an annoying dashboard light. It affects everything from gas mileage and tire wear to how well your car handles on the roads.
So, as we roll into these cooler mornings, don’t let that light ruin your day. Grab a few quarters, check your tire gauge, and show those tires some love. Once they warm back up, that little light will likely disappear, just like your breath in the cold air.
If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, email him at asktroopersteve@wkmg.com.