Cold Weather Can Affect TPMS – Here’s How!
January 19, 2021
The Science of Tire Pressure
Let’s all take a trip down memory lane. Remember sitting in science class in high school and learning about the three states of matter? Your teacher would draw ice, water, then condensation on the board. A solid, liquid, and gas. Now, we use a gaseous state to inflate our tires. Now, if you’re anything like me, science was not your favorite subject. Believe it or not, it is true when teachers say science applies to everyday life. Here’s why science applies to your tires.
All three states of matter expand in heat. It’s called thermal expansion. Gas happens to expand the most when heated. Have you ever left a balloon outside in the summer only to come back to find it has popped? That’s because of thermal expansion. To get technical, heat causes the molecules (most likely helium molecules) to move faster, converting the heat energy to kinetic energy. So, the atoms themselves never truly expand, but the volume they take up does. That leads to the inevitable pop.
Cold temperatures means the opposite. When it’s cold, gas particles move a little bit slower. Think of the particles like how you feel in the morning pre-coffee. Slightly sluggish, right? We’re right there with you. Because they are sluggish and move slower, there are less collisions, and they take up less volume.
Have you ever gotten in the car earlier on a cold morning and your tire pressure light came on? Then once you start driving, after it’s warmed a bit, the light flashes off. That’s because it gets coldest at night. That causes your tires pressure to decrease (because the molecules are moving slower). Then as it gets warmer, the molecules move faster, and your tire pressure increases.
So, to put it simply, heat causes air to expand. Cold causes air to shrink. Science is kind of cool, right?
Does that mean I shouldn’t get my air checked when the light comes on in the winter?
Even though the TPMS light may turn off, you still should get your air checked out. Because the weather is colder, it’s more important to stay on top of your tire pressure because it can fluctuate so much.
Poorly inflated tires can lead to serious problems, so it is recommended to check that out when your light turns on. The indicator light does not flash on unless your tire pressure is 25% below the manufacturer's recommended air pressure. If this remains ignored, the risk of tire failure increases. For the benefit of your safety, be sure to stay on top of your tire pressure throughout the winter months.
I have a spare on. The TPMS keeps flashing on. What should I do?
First of all, we recommend getting a new tire as soon as you can. Driving on a spare for an extended period of time is not recommended. Spare tires were not made for long distance travel.
So, your indicator light keeps turning on because the spare is not connected to the system. Spares do not have TPMS sensors. Meaning, the monitoring system is telling you it can’t detect a sensor.
When is the best time to get my tire pressure where it needs to be?
During the winter months, it’s recommended you check your air pressure when the car has been sitting idle for a few hours. That is when you should inflate them to the recommended levels. Some cars will honk once the tires reach the needed pressure.
However, not all cars are equipped with this feature. It is important to be vigilant about checking the pressure with a tire gauge. You can buy it for about $10 at any local auto parts store. Most gas stations also have an air compressor, if you do not have one at home, and lots of these places provide free air. Other gas stations may require you to pay for the air, so be sure to look up free air near you before heading out.
Have Questions? Ask our Experts.
Need to Schedule Your Vehicle Service? Make an Appointment.
Make Safety a Priority with Tire Maintenance from Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming As the school year kicks off and traffic increases around Buford and Cumming , your vehicle’s tires become more important than ever. Whether you are driving through busy school zones, sitting in carpool lines, or commuting long distances every day, the condition of your tires directly affects your safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance on the road. At Team Ryan Automotive, we help Georgia drivers stay ahead of seasonal driving demands by focusing on the components that matter most. Your tires are your only point of contact with the road, making them essential for control, traction, and braking in all driving conditions. Before the school year ramps up, make sure your tires are ready for everything the road throws your way. Why Tire Maintenance Is Essential During the School Season Back-to-school driving typically involves more stop-and-go traffic, tighter turns in crowded parking lots, and more time spent behind the wheel overall. Many drivers also carry additional passengers or gear during this time, which increases the load placed on their tires. Without regular maintenance, tires can wear unevenly, lose air pressure, or fail unexpectedly. Driving with worn or underinflated tires makes it harder to steer, lengthens stopping distance, and increases your risk of a blowout. That risk is even greater when you are rushing through morning traffic or navigating wet roads during fall storms. Tire maintenance helps prevent these issues and gives you peace of mind as you drive your family to school, practice, or appointments. How to Inspect Your Tires at Home Even before visiting an auto shop, there are a few quick checks you can do yourself to assess the condition of your tires . Start by walking around your vehicle and checking the following: Tread Depth: Use the penny test to measure tread depth. Insert a penny into the tire groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low, and it is time to replace the tire. Sidewall Condition: Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewall. These can indicate structural damage that may lead to a blowout. Tire Pressure: Use a tire gauge to measure air pressure and compare it to the recommended levels listed in your owner’s manual or on the driver-side door sticker. Be sure to check the tires when they are cold, not after driving. Tire Wear Pattern: Uneven tread wear can point to alignment issues or improper inflation. If the wear is more severe on one edge or in the center, bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Professional Tire Services You Should Schedule While home checks are helpful, they are not a substitute for a thorough inspection by a certified technician. At Team Ryan Automotive, our tire services go beyond basic checks, ensuring every aspect of your tire system performs properly. We recommend the following services before the school year starts: Tire Rotation: Rotating your tires regularly helps ensure they wear evenly and last longer. Different positions on the vehicle experience different types of wear, so rotating them every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps even this out. Wheel Alignment : If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel is off-center, it could be a sign of misalignment. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear, reduce handling, and shorten tire lifespan. We use precise alignment tools to correct the issue and protect your tires. Tire Balancing : If you feel vibration while driving at higher speeds, your tires may be out of balance. Tire balancing ensures that weight is distributed evenly around the wheel, helping to prevent excessive wear and suspension damage. Flat Repair: If you have a slow leak or have recently run over a nail, our team can often repair the tire and restore it to full function. We always inspect the tire thoroughly to ensure the damage is repairable and safe. Tire Replacement : If your tread is worn out or the sidewall is damaged, we offer high-quality replacement tires from top brands. Our technicians will help you choose the right tire for your vehicle, driving habits, and budget. Why Tire Pressure Is a Big Deal in Georgia Weather Georgia’s weather can fluctuate, especially as summer transitions into fall. These temperature changes affect your tire pressure more than you might expect. For every 10-degree change in temperature, your tire pressure can fluctuate by one to two pounds per square inch. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and increase heat buildup, which can cause premature tire wear or even failure. Overinflated tires reduce traction and can make your ride less comfortable. Maintaining tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level enhances your gas mileage, prolongs tire life, and ensures your vehicle remains stable during sudden stops or turns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we check and adjust tire pressure as part of every inspection and service. We want your tires to perform their best, regardless of the temperature outside. Tread Depth and School Zone Safety Stopping distance is critical when driving in school zones. Children can appear suddenly, other vehicles may stop without warning, and speed limits are significantly reduced. Worn-out tires cannot grip the road effectively, especially in wet conditions, and that compromises your ability to brake quickly. Tires with deep, healthy tread offer better traction on wet pavement and allow for more responsive braking. If your tread depth is low, especially as rainstorms become more frequent, it is time to replace your tires. Driving through Buford and Cumming school zones with proper tread and pressure ensures you can stop when it matters most. What Makes Team Ryan Automotive Different When you visit Team Ryan Automotive in Buford or Cumming, you are not just getting a tire service. You are getting a partner who prioritizes your safety, explains your options clearly, and never pressures you into repairs you do not need. Our technicians are ASE certified and trained to work with all makes and models. Whether you drive a compact sedan, an SUV, or a family van, we have the tools and knowledge to care for your tires the right way. We believe in proactive service, not reactive repairs. Our goal is to help you stay ahead of issues before they become emergencies. That is why we encourage all drivers to include tire maintenance in their back-to-school car care routine. Schedule Your Tire Inspection Before the School Year Gets Busy The back-to-school season brings increased mileage, tighter schedules, and more road risks. Do not let worn or underperforming tires put your family’s safety in jeopardy. Let Team Ryan Automotive in Buford or Cumming inspect your tires and make sure they are ready for everything this season demands. Our tire services are fast, affordable, and focused on keeping your vehicle road ready. Whether you need a simple rotation or a full set of new tires, we are here to help. Call or schedule online today . Drive smarter, safer, and more confidently this school year with help from the tire experts at Team Ryan Automotive.
How to Prevent Common Back-to-School Breakdowns with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming Back-to-school season brings early mornings, packed schedules, and an increase in daily driving. Whether you are taking your kids to school, commuting to work, or handling multiple pick-ups and drop-offs, your vehicle needs to be reliable, efficient, and safe. The last thing any driver wants is to deal with a breakdown during the morning rush or be stuck on the side of the road when school traffic is at its peak. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford and Cumming , we help drivers prepare for the demands of the new school year with inspections and preventive maintenance designed to catch problems before they interrupt your schedule. If you want to avoid unexpected car trouble during the busiest time of year, now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready. Why Breakdowns Are More Common During Back-to-School Season As summer ends, driving habits change. Vehicles that were used lightly during summer vacations or sat idle in the heat now return to daily commutes, stop-and-go traffic, and regular use. Increased mileage, rising temperatures, and heavy loads can quickly reveal issues that have been developing quietly for months. Some of the most common problems we see at the start of the school year include dead batteries, overheating engines, tire blowouts, brake failures, and electrical malfunctions. These are often the result of worn-out parts, low fluid levels, or lack of maintenance. The good news is that most of these breakdowns are completely preventable with a timely inspection and a few smart service choices. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. After months of exposure to summer heat, many batteries are already strained before the start of the school year. Once temperatures cool down and early morning startups become the norm, a worn-out battery may not have enough power left to crank the engine. To avoid getting stranded, schedule a battery test at Team Ryan Automotive. Our technicians will check your battery’s voltage, charge capacity, and overall health. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose the correct replacement before it lets you down. Overheating Engine Stop-and-go traffic, long idling times in school pickup lines, and forgotten maintenance can all cause your engine to overheat. Many drivers ignore the warning signs until it is too late, leading to costly repairs. Prevent overheating by having your cooling system inspected. This includes checking the radiator, thermostat, hoses, coolant levels, and water pump. We recommend flushing and replacing coolant based on the TRA Maintenance schedule . Our technicians in Buford and Cumming can test your system for leaks and ensure everything is circulating properly. Tire Trouble Tires that are underinflated, worn out, or damaged are more likely to cause problems during the back-to-school rush. You are more likely to drive over curbs, potholes, and parking lot debris when you are navigating crowded school areas, which increases your risk of tire issues. Before school starts, inspect your tires for tread depth, sidewall damage, and proper air pressure. Uneven wear may indicate alignment problems, which can reduce handling and accelerate tire deterioration. Team Ryan Automotive offers free tire inspections and pressure checks at both locations, so you can drive with peace of mind. Brake Failure Brakes that are noisy, soft, or slow to respond are a serious safety risk, especially in school zones where quick stops are often required. The increased stop-and-go driving during the school year puts even more strain on your braking system. We recommend having your brakes checked for pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, do not delay. Our technicians can identify the issue and recommend service that restores safety and performance. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Dashboard warning lights often appear at the worst times. Whether it is your check engine light, ABS light, or low tire pressure alert, these signals should never be ignored. A small sensor issue can become a major mechanical failure if left unchecked. If a warning light comes on, bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read fault codes and pinpoint the exact issue, saving you time and guesswork. Our team will explain what needs attention and what can wait, so you can make informed decisions that fit your schedule and budget. Poor Visibility Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, especially during early morning or late afternoon commutes. Headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers must function properly in all weather conditions. Check all exterior lights to make sure they are working and replace any that are dim or burned out. Inspect your wiper blades for streaking or skipping. If they are worn out, we can install new blades quickly during your visit. Do not forget to top off windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear on rainy or foggy mornings. HVAC System Performance Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be ready for fluctuating weather as well as for keeping passengers comfortable during daily drives. A well-maintained HVAC system also plays a role in defrosting your windshield and maintaining safe visibility. If your AC is blowing warm air or your defrost is slow to respond, schedule an inspection. Our team will check the cabin air filter, blower motor, refrigerant level, and AC compressor to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Suspension and Steering Issues Rough rides and poor handling can make back-to-school driving stressful and unsafe. Worn suspension components may not absorb road impact correctly, causing instability during turns and braking. Have your shocks, struts, and steering components inspected if you notice clunking noises, pulling to one side, or excessive bouncing. Team Ryan Automotive performs complete suspension diagnostics to restore ride quality and handling precision. The Importance of Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your vehicle. A small service today could prevent a major repair tomorrow. At Team Ryan Automotive, we provide complete vehicle inspections designed to prepare your car for the season ahead. Our back-to-school readiness services include: Battery testing Cooling system inspection Brake inspection and fluid check Tire pressure and tread evaluation Oil and filter change Wiper and light check HVAC system test Diagnostic scan for warning lights Our goal is to help Buford and Cumming drivers start the school year with confidence, not car trouble. Schedule Your Inspection with Team Ryan Automotive There is no better time to schedule a complete inspection than right now. Before the school bell rings and your calendar fills up, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a back-to-school checkup. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to make sure your vehicle is ready for the morning commute, the after-school rush, and every mile in between. With convenient locations in Buford and Cumming , flexible appointment times, and honest service you can trust, we make it easy to stay on top of maintenance. Call or schedule online today . Keep your family safe, your schedule on track, and your car in peak condition this school year with help from Team Ryan Automotive.
How to Prevent Common Back-to-School Breakdowns with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming Back-to-school season brings early mornings, packed schedules, and an increase in daily driving. Whether you are taking your kids to school, commuting to work, or handling multiple pick-ups and drop-offs, your vehicle needs to be reliable, efficient, and safe. The last thing any driver wants is to deal with a breakdown during the morning rush or be stuck on the side of the road when school traffic is at its peak. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford and Cumming , we help drivers prepare for the demands of the new school year with inspections and preventive maintenance designed to catch problems before they interrupt your schedule. If you want to avoid unexpected car trouble during the busiest time of year, now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready. Why Breakdowns Are More Common During Back-to-School Season As summer ends, driving habits change. Vehicles that were used lightly during summer vacations or sat idle in the heat now return to daily commutes, stop-and-go traffic, and regular use. Increased mileage, rising temperatures, and heavy loads can quickly reveal issues that have been developing quietly for months. Some of the most common problems we see at the start of the school year include dead batteries, overheating engines, tire blowouts, brake failures, and electrical malfunctions. These are often the result of worn-out parts, low fluid levels, or lack of maintenance. The good news is that most of these breakdowns are completely preventable with a timely inspection and a few smart service choices. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. After months of exposure to summer heat, many batteries are already strained before the start of the school year. Once temperatures cool down and early morning startups become the norm, a worn-out battery may not have enough power left to crank the engine. To avoid getting stranded, schedule a battery test at Team Ryan Automotive. Our technicians will check your battery’s voltage, charge capacity, and overall health. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose the correct replacement before it lets you down. Overheating Engine Stop-and-go traffic, long idling times in school pickup lines, and forgotten maintenance can all cause your engine to overheat. Many drivers ignore the warning signs until it is too late, leading to costly repairs. Prevent overheating by having your cooling system inspected. This includes checking the radiator, thermostat, hoses, coolant levels, and water pump. We recommend flushing and replacing coolant based on the TRA Maintenance schedule . Our technicians in Buford and Cumming can test your system for leaks and ensure everything is circulating properly. Tire Trouble Tires that are underinflated, worn out, or damaged are more likely to cause problems during the back-to-school rush. You are more likely to drive over curbs, potholes, and parking lot debris when you are navigating crowded school areas, which increases your risk of tire issues. Before school starts, inspect your tires for tread depth, sidewall damage, and proper air pressure. Uneven wear may indicate alignment problems, which can reduce handling and accelerate tire deterioration. Team Ryan Automotive offers free tire inspections and pressure checks at both locations, so you can drive with peace of mind. Brake Failure Brakes that are noisy, soft, or slow to respond are a serious safety risk, especially in school zones where quick stops are often required. The increased stop-and-go driving during the school year puts even more strain on your braking system. We recommend having your brakes checked for pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, do not delay. Our technicians can identify the issue and recommend service that restores safety and performance. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Dashboard warning lights often appear at the worst times. Whether it is your check engine light, ABS light, or low tire pressure alert, these signals should never be ignored. A small sensor issue can become a major mechanical failure if left unchecked. If a warning light comes on, bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read fault codes and pinpoint the exact issue, saving you time and guesswork. Our team will explain what needs attention and what can wait, so you can make informed decisions that fit your schedule and budget. Poor Visibility Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, especially during early morning or late afternoon commutes. Headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers must function properly in all weather conditions. Check all exterior lights to make sure they are working and replace any that are dim or burned out. Inspect your wiper blades for streaking or skipping. If they are worn out, we can install new blades quickly during your visit. Do not forget to top off windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear on rainy or foggy mornings. HVAC System Performance Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be ready for fluctuating weather as well as for keeping passengers comfortable during daily drives. A well-maintained HVAC system also plays a role in defrosting your windshield and maintaining safe visibility. If your AC is blowing warm air or your defrost is slow to respond, schedule an inspection. Our team will check the cabin air filter, blower motor, refrigerant level, and AC compressor to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Suspension and Steering Issues Rough rides and poor handling can make back-to-school driving stressful and unsafe. Worn suspension components may not absorb road impact correctly, causing instability during turns and braking. Have your shocks, struts, and steering components inspected if you notice clunking noises, pulling to one side, or excessive bouncing. Team Ryan Automotive performs complete suspension diagnostics to restore ride quality and handling precision. The Importance of Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your vehicle. A small service today could prevent a major repair tomorrow. At Team Ryan Automotive, we provide complete vehicle inspections designed to prepare your car for the season ahead. Our back-to-school readiness services include: Battery testing Cooling system inspection Brake inspection and fluid check Tire pressure and tread evaluation Oil and filter change Wiper and light check HVAC system test Diagnostic scan for warning lights Our goal is to help Buford and Cumming drivers start the school year with confidence, not car trouble. Schedule Your Inspection with Team Ryan Automotive There is no better time to schedule a complete inspection than right now. Before the school bell rings and your calendar fills up, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a back-to-school checkup. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to make sure your vehicle is ready for the morning commute, the after-school rush, and every mile in between. With convenient locations in Buford and Cumming , flexible appointment times, and honest service you can trust, we make it easy to stay on top of maintenance. Call or schedule online today . Keep your family safe, your schedule on track, and your car in peak condition this school year with help from Team Ryan Automotive.
