Tire Monitor System - Warning Lamp ON in Cold Weather
SI M 36 01 08Wheels and Tires
January 2008
Technical Service
SUBJECT
Tire Warning Illuminated Due to Low Ambient Temperature
MODEL
R52 (Cooper and Cooper S) from 9/07
R56 (Cooper and Cooper S) from 8/07
INFORMATION
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System utilizes a warning lamp, located in the instrument cluster, to alert the driver of low tire pressure conditions. The warning is illuminated when the tire pressure decreases by approximately 25 percent. Temperature fluctuations can cause changes in tire pressure. For every 10° F change in ambient temperature, the tire pressure can change by 1 psi. Therefore, the tire pressure
warning indicator may be triggered due to a large change in temperature, combined with a preexisting low pressure condition.
When addressing customer concerns related to Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, the following points should be noted:
^ Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems have been mandated by the Federal Government.
^ The thresholds necessary to illuminate the tire warning lamp are consistent with Federal Guidelines.
^ Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
^ Under-inflation reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability.
^ Customers should be advised to inspect their tires for physical damage and check the tire pressures when the tire warning is illuminated.
^ The use of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems does not eliminate the need for routine maintenance by the vehicle operator.
^ MINI recommends checking tire inflation pressures every two weeks and before long trips.
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