The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, or TPMS, is a safety feature fitted to all new cars sold in the UK since 2014. When the warning light illuminates — typically a cross-sectional tyre symbol with an exclamation mark — it means one or more tyres has dropped below the recommended pressure.
Driving on underinflated tyres increases fuel consumption, causes uneven wear, and significantly raises the risk of a blowout. Never ignore a TPMS warning.
Common Causes of the TPMS Warning Light
The most common cause is a gradual loss of pressure, often due to a slow puncture or natural air seepage over time. Cold weather is another trigger — tyre pressure drops by roughly 1 PSI for every 10°F fall in temperature, which is particularly relevant during Glasgow's winters.
The light can also illuminate after a tyre change if the TPMS sensor was not reset, or if a sensor battery has reached the end of its life.
What to Do When the Light Comes On
Check all four tyres as soon as it is safe to do so. If one tyre appears visibly flat, do not drive on it. If pressures look normal, the issue may be a sensor fault or a slow puncture that needs professional investigation.
Top up pressures to the recommended level (found in your vehicle handbook or door jamb sticker) and see if the light clears. If it persists, a TPMS diagnostic is needed.
TPMS Sensor Service in Glasgow
Glasgow Mobile Tyre Fitters carry TPMS sensors for all major vehicle manufacturers and can diagnose, replace and reset TPMS systems at your location. This is particularly useful after a tyre replacement, when sensors often need reprogramming.
Contact us if your TPMS warning remains on after checking pressures, and we will send a technician to investigate and resolve the issue at your convenience.
Glasgow Mobile Tyre Fitters provide fast, professional mobile tyre fitting across all Glasgow postcodes. Call us or book online — same-day service available.