Why Does My MINI Flash a Tire Pressure Monitoring System Alert?

If you’re driving a MINI then it’s more than just a car. Driving is always enjoyable but for MINI drivers it’s an experience. But even the most experienced MINI driver might feel a slight anxiety at the sight of a tiny warning light flashing up on their dashboard. And when that warning light happens to be TPMS.

What’s this TPMS all about?

The TPMS is a cool little system that lets you know when your tires have lost too much pressure. It’s been standard equipment on MINIs since 2007 because having low-pressure tires is pretty much asking for trouble and they make your car harder to control, waste fuel and might even cause a tire blowout. There are two ways it does this. Direct TPMS means that there are small sensors fitted inside the wheels themselves while indirect TPMS uses your car’s anti-lock brakes to monitor tire rotation.

Difference Between Flashing TPMS Light and Solid TPMS Light

Flashing Light - This indicates a problem with either the TPMS system or the sensors.

Solid Light - This indicates that one of your tires is not inflated enough.

When a flashing TPMS light changes to a solid TPMS light then it indicates that the system has found problems, performed a diagnostic test and realized there is a continued problem with tire pressure.

Diagnosis Process for Mini

l Check Your Tire Pressure. Get off the road at a safe location and visually inspect the tires. Are there any clearly visible flat tires and damage to them? If none then get a tire pressure gauge and check the PSI in each tire, comparing it to the required number which will be specified on a sticker inside the driver's doorjamb.

l Inflate each tire that isn't up to the standard PSI.

l Once you have checked and corrected the tire pressure then you may need to reset the TPMS yourself using the MINI's onboard menu. The instructions for doing that may be found in the owner's guide.

l Visit an Auto Repair Shop. If you have completed all the above steps and the light is still flashing then there is definitely something wrong with the TPMS. That is why you should visit a professional to fix it.

Do Not Ignore That Light

Stay Safe - Having tires that are underinflated is very unsafe and can result in difficulties while driving, increase braking distance and cause you to have a flat tire.

Save Money on Fuel - Well-inflated tires will make sure that you use less gas and save on gas costs.

Do Not Spend More Than Needed - Fix your tire issues now and avoid paying much later.

Taking Precautionary Steps

Monthly Checkup - Remember to check your tire pressure at least once a month and before any extended journey on the road.

Visual Inspection - Always keep an eye out for any damage to your tires that might be occurring.

Maintenance Check - Ensure you have your TPMS system inspected during regular maintenance, particularly if your MINI is more than five years old.

Conclusion

The TPMS light is your MINI’s way of warning you about the potential danger to both your personal well-being and your car’s performance. By becoming aware of what causes it and how to react to it then you’ll have the peace of mind to enjoy each of your trips with your MINI.

Don’t ignore the persistent TPMS light or any concerns regarding your MINI’s sensors, you can bring your MINI in and we'll take care of it for you. Our team of certified mechanics will use advanced diagnostic equipment to address all your TPMS concerns promptly. Whether it is topping off the tires or replacing the TPMS sensors our technicians know what needs to be done and will do everything to restore your MINI’s performance.

We at Tanner Motors located in Phoenix, AZ is a leading shop in the entire area for repairing and servicing European cars. We specialize in Volvo, BMW, Mini Cooper, Mercedes Benz, Lexus and Audi. All our technicians are factory trained.