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.

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Get Your Vehicle Winter-Ready with Team Ryan Automotive's 9-Point Checklist

By Dan Ryan • January 10, 2025

Get Your Vehicle Winter-Ready with Team Ryan Automotive's 9-Point Checklist As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, it's time to start thinking about preparing your car for the upcoming winter weather. At Team Ryan Automotive, our ASE Master Technicians know that a little preventative maintenance can go a long way in ensuring your vehicle is ready to face the challenges of the colder months. We've put together a comprehensive 9-point checklist to help you avoid the inconvenience and expense of a breakdown during severe weather. 1. Battery and Charging System: Cold weather can be particularly hard on your car's battery. Have your battery and charging system checked by our experts to ensure optimal performance and reliable starts all winter long. 2. Cooling System: To protect your engine from freezing temperatures, we recommend cleaning, flushing, and replacing your antifreeze every two years. Our technicians can service your cooling system to ensure it’s in top shape for the winter ahead. Engine Coolant or Anti-Freeze almost never loses its “anti-freezing“ability, it’s the rust inhibitors that “wear out.” This can lead to corrosion in the cooling system, leaks, and component failure. The routine cooling system service will help to prevent this from happening. 3. Heating, Defrosting, and Wipers: Properly functioning heaters, defrosters, and wipers are essential for maintaining visibility and comfort during the colder months. Consider upgrading to new wiper blades. Remember, wiper blades should generally be replaced every six months. 4. Tires: Check your tire tread depth and pressure to ensure proper traction on slippery roads. If you live in an area prone to snow and ice, consider investing in special winter tires designed to grip slick surfaces. During the winter, make sure to check your tire pressure weekly. Our team can include this as part of your regular winter check-up. 5. Oil and Filter Changes: Stay diligent about changing your oil and filter at the recommended intervals. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. During your routine oil service , our technicians will also check your air and transmission fluid. 6. Tune-Up: If your vehicle is due for a tune-up, have it done before winter sets in. Cold weather can magnify existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance, or rough idling. A pre-winter tune-up will help ensure your car runs smoothly all season long. 7. Brakes: Your vehicle's braking system is its most important safety feature. Let our experts inspect your brakes to ensure they're in top condition and ready to handle the challenges of winter driving. 8. Exhaust System: Carbon monoxide leaks can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are typically closed. Let our technicians inspect your exhaust system to identify and fix any potential leaks, keeping you and your passengers safe. 9. Lights: Proper lighting is crucial for visibility during the shorter days and longer nights of winter. Our team will check your exterior and interior lights and ensure your headlights are properly aimed for optimal illumination. Bonus Tip: Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times to reduce the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and potentially freezing. It's also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your trunk, including an ice scraper, snowbrush, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blanket, extra clothes, candles/matches, bottled water, dry food snacks, and any necessary medication. Did You Know? At Team Ryan Automotive, we check all 9 of these recommended items, as well as the tire pressure on your spare, with every oil service. Schedule your service today and experience our commitment to your safety and peace of mind. Don’t let winter weather catch you off guard. By following our 9-point checklist and trusting the experts at Team Ryan Automotive, you can ensure your vehicle is ready to face the colder months with confidence. Remember, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way in avoiding the inconvenience and expense of a breakdown during severe weather. Schedule your winter check-up today or contact us with any questions. At Team Ryan Automotive, we're here to help you stay safe and warm on the road this winter.

5 Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Car or Truck (+ Bonus Tips!)

By Dan Ryan • January 10, 2025

5 Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Car or Truck (+ Bonus Tips!) As the magical winter months approach, it's crucial to ensure your car or truck is ready to handle the unique challenges that come with the season. Even if we don't experience heavy snowfall here in Georgia, the crisp winter air and unpredictable weather can still take a toll on your vehicle. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and keep your car running smoothly throughout the winter. Here are five essential winter maintenance tips to keep in mind, plus some bonus tips for extra preparation! 1. Keep Your Car Clean: While snow may be a rare sight in Georgia, here are a few steps to remember when we do see the white fluffy stuff. The harsh winter elements combined with road salt can damage your car's paint and even lead to rust if left unchecked. Make sure to wash your vehicle thoroughly after any snow scare where salt may have been applied to the roads. This will help to protect the exterior and keep it looking its best. Don't forget to also clean the undercarriage, as salt and other winter debris can accumulate and cause damage over time. 2. Upgrade Your Wiper Blades: Being prepared for unexpected weather is key during the winter season. Swapping out your old wiper blades for new, winter-ready ones will ensure better visibility when snow or heavy rain suddenly strikes. Don't let Mother Nature catch you off guard – equip your car with the right tools to handle any situation. 3. Test Your Battery: Cold weather can be particularly hard on your car's battery. A weak battery that manages to survive the summer may not fare as well during the winter months. To avoid those frustrating mornings when your car won’t start, have your battery tested as the temperature begins to drop. If necessary, replace it before the heart of winter arrives, ensuring reliable starts all season long. It's also a good idea to keep jumper cables in your car, just in case you or someone else needs a jump-start. 4. Inspect Your Heating System: There's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm car after braving the icy outdoor air. Even in Georgia, winter temperatures can plummet, making your car's heater an essential feature. Take a moment to check that your heater and defroster are working properly by turning them on and feeling for warm air. A functioning heating system will make all the difference in keeping you comfortable during your winter commutes. Don’t forget to also check your coolant levels , as a proper antifreeze/water mixture helps protect your engine from freezing temperatures. 5. Schedule a Winter Check-Up: To give you added peace of mind, consider scheduling a winter check-up with the experts at Team Ryan Automotive. Our skilled technicians will thoroughly inspect your vehicle, ensuring that all essential components are in top shape for the winter months ahead. From checking your tire pressure to testing your battery, we’ll make sure your car is ready to handle whatever winter throws its way. We can also help with other winter preparations, such as checking your brakes, inspecting your belts and hoses, and ensuring your oil is the correct viscosity for the colder temperatures. Bonus Tips: Make sure your tires have sufficient tread depth and are properly inflated for better traction on slippery roads. Always allow extra time for your car to warm up before driving in cold weather to prevent unnecessary strain on the engine. At Team Ryan Automotive, our goal is to keep your car or truck running at its best, no matter the season. By following these five essential winter maintenance tips and bonus tips, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and enjoy a worry-free winter on the road. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your vehicle is ready to face the challenges of the colder months. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment , don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit our website at teamryanautomotive.com. We’re here to help you navigate the winter months with confidence and keep your car in top shape all year round. Stay safe and warm out there!

How to Help Prevent 4 Common Cold Weather Battery Issues: Essential Tips for Reliable Performance

By Dan Ryan • December 21, 2024

How to Help Prevent 4 Common Cold Weather Battery Issues: Essential Tips for Reliable Performance Cold weather can put your vehicle’s battery to the ultimate test. As temperatures drop, your battery’s performance can be significantly impacted, leaving you stranded when you least expect it. Knowing how to prevent common cold weather battery issues is crucial to keeping your car starting and running smoothly all winter long. Why Does Cold Weather Affect Your Battery? Cold weather slows the chemical reactions inside your car’s battery, reducing its ability to generate power. Add thicker engine oil to the mix, and your battery works even harder to get your vehicle started on those frigid mornings. The good news? A little proactive care can make a big difference. Regularly checking your battery’s health, ensuring clean and secure connections, and keeping it fully charged are key steps to preventing winter breakdowns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we care about your safety and convenience. Here are essential tips to ensure your battery delivers reliable performance during the cold months. Key Tips for Maintaining Battery Health This Winter 1. Inspect and Test Your Battery Regularly Perform monthly visual checks to spot signs of corrosion, wear, or loose connections. Corroded terminals and damaged cables can severely impact performance, especially in colder temperatures. Voltage Testing: Use a multimeter to check your battery’s charge. A healthy battery should read 12.6 volts when fully charged. Pro Tip: Test your battery under load (while operating) to identify weak cells before they fail. If your battery is several years old, consider replacing it proactively to avoid unexpected breakdowns. 2. Follow Smart Charging Practices Cold weather drains batteries faster, so keeping them charged is essential. Invest in a smart charger that prevents overcharging and ensures your battery remains in peak condition. Never attempt to charge a frozen battery—it can lead to ruptures or even explosions. Warm the battery safely to room temperature before charging. 3. Protect Your Battery with Insulation Insulation is your battery’s best friend in winter. Battery Blankets: Electrically powered wraps keep your battery warm and operational, even in sub-zero temperatures. Insulation Sleeves: Foam or rubber sleeves add a layer of protection against extreme cold and physical damage. Proper insulation reduces the risk of freezing, keeping your battery ready for action no matter the weather. Simple Preventive Measures to Boost Battery Performance Strategic Parking Tips Where and how you park your vehicle can make a surprising difference during cold weather. Garage It : Always aim to park in a garage or covered area to shield your vehicle from harsh elements. Facing East: If outdoor parking is unavoidable, park your car facing the east to let the morning sun naturally warm up the engine. Use a Car Cover: A car cover limits exposure to snow and ice, maintaining a stable temperature for your battery and engine. Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues Jump-Starting 101 If your battery dies, jump-starting it can get you back on the road quickly: Park a working vehicle close to the dead one (without the cars touching). Connect jumper cables: Positive to positive (+) and negative (-) to a metal surface on the engine block of the dead car. Start the working vehicle, let it run for a few minutes, then start the dead vehicle. Pro Tip: Always disconnect the cables in reverse order and avoid contact with moving parts. Regular maintenance can help prevent these situations altogether. When to Seek Professional Help If your battery consistently underperforms or won’t hold a charge, it’s time to visit Team Ryan Automotive. Warning signs like flickering lights or clicking sounds during ignition may indicate deeper electrical or charging system issues, such as a failing alternator. Our experts perform comprehensive diagnostic and testing procedures to find and resolve issues, ensuring your vehicle stays reliable. Stay Ahead with Team Ryan Automotive Don’t let cold weather catch you off guard. At Team Ryan Automotive, we offer professional battery inspections, testing, and replacement services to keep your vehicle winter-ready. From identifying early warning signs to delivering expert solutions, we’re here to help. Schedule your winter vehicle checkup today and drive with confidence this season!