Will My Car Pass Inspection with the Tire Pressure Light On?
Can a Tire Pressure Light Cause Inspection Failure?
It depends on where you live and the type of inspection. In many states, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light will not automatically cause a failure, but in some places, it can fail the safety portion of an inspection.
Inspection Rules for a TPMS Light
Which States Fail Inspection for a TPMS Light?
Some states, like New York, Vermont, and Virginia, require TPMS to be working for a vehicle to pass a safety inspection. Other states do not check TPMS at all during inspection.
How to Fix a Tire Pressure Light Before Inspection
✅ Check Tire Pressure – Inflate all tires to the correct PSI.
✅ Reset the TPMS System – Some vehicles require a manual reset after correcting pressure.
✅ Check for a Bad TPMS Sensor – Sensors inside the wheels can fail and need replacement.
✅ Drive for a Few Miles – Some TPMS lights reset after driving at highway speeds.
Final Thoughts
Your car may pass an inspection with the TPMS light on, depending on the state. To be safe, it’s best to fix the issue before the inspection by checking tire pressure and resetting the system.
FAQs
1. Does a TPMS light affect emissions testing?
No, TPMS is not related to emissions, so it won’t cause a failure in an emissions-only inspection.
2. Can I reset the TPMS light myself?
Yes, after inflating the tires, some cars have a TPMS reset button or require driving at 50+ mph for 10–15 minutes.
3. What if the TPMS light is on due to a bad sensor?
A faulty TPMS sensor may need replacement ($50–$150 per sensor) before passing inspection.
4. Will my car pass if the TPMS light is on but the tires are properly inflated?
In most states, yes, but some require TPMS to be functional for safety inspections.
5. Can I fail inspection if my spare tire has a TPMS sensor issue?
If your spare tire has a malfunctioning TPMS sensor, it can still trigger the warning light, potentially affecting your inspection.
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