Date Posted: Nov 25, 2025
Why Your Tire Pressure Drops in Winter (and What to Do About It)
If your TPMS light pops on during a cold snap, you’re not alone. It’s common to see low tire pressure when cold weather arrives because air contracts as temperatures drop. In fact, for every 10°F decrease, tires can lose about 1 PSI. At Rogers Tire in Old Fort, Tennessee, we help drivers stay safe and extend tire life with quick checks, repairs, and proper inflation all winter long.
Why Tires Lose Pressure in Cold
When temperatures fall, the air inside your tires becomes denser and takes up less space. That’s why tires lose pressure in cold conditions even if there’s no puncture or damage. Many drivers notice a TPMS light on chilly mornings that goes off after driving—friction warms the air and raises pressure slightly. Still, driving underinflated is risky: it reduces traction, increases stopping distances, and accelerates tread wear.
Cold Weather Low Tire Pressure Explained
Cold weather low tire pressure isn’t a defect—it’s physics. But ignoring it can lead to poor handling and lower fuel economy. If you repeatedly see low tire pressure when cold, check your tires with a quality gauge before your first drive of the day, when they’re “cold.” Add air to the recommended PSI and recheck regularly throughout winter.
The Best Tire Pressure for Winter
The best tire pressure for winter is the PSI listed on your vehicle’s driver-door placard or owner’s manual—not the number on the tire’s sidewall. Check and set pressures when the tires are cold, ideally in the morning. For trucks, SUVs, ag, off-road, and specialty equipment, manufacturer specs still apply; if you’re unsure, our technicians can inspect them for you and set the correct PSI.
How Often to Check Tire Pressure in Winter
- Check at least once a month, and after major temperature swings.
- Verify pressure before long trips or towing/hauling.
- Inspect the spare tire, valve stems, and valve caps.
- Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles and ask us to check inflation at the same time.
Quick Tips to Prevent Winter Tire Issues
- Use a reliable digital or analog gauge; don’t rely solely on the TPMS.
- Top off air to spec; avoid overinflating.
- Look for signs of damage: tread wear, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects.
- Consider dedicated winter or all-weather tires for consistent grip in cold conditions.
- If a tire repeatedly loses air, have it professionally inspected—small leaks can worsen in cold weather.
Visit Rogers Tire for Tire Service You Can Trust
We’re locally owned and committed to doing the job right the first time. From passenger and light truck tires to ag, off-road, lawn and garden, and specialty tires, we provide installation, repair, replacement, and regular maintenance to keep you safe on the road. Stop by Rogers Tire at 127 Bill Milen Lane, Old Fort, Tennessee 37362, or contact us. We’re open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, and proudly serve Old Fort and the surrounding areas.