Jernik
New member
When your low pressure light comes on in the 4Runner it's because the pressure has dropped to an unsafe level and you should deal with it right away. It doesn't come on just because the pressure has dropped a couple psi from cold temps. I've had it come on once (other than off roading) and it was obvious which tire was the problem. Turned out to be a loose valve stem core that I tightened then refilled the tire.
To clarify; I have not had the TPMS kick off a warning on the 4runner yet. On my Ram, it goes off if the pressure drops under 30psi in any tire for any reason. I usually run 34-36 in it. If I've been lazy and haven't checked them for a while and they get down to say 32 and a cold night hits, they will generally drop to the 29-30 range and kick off the warning light. Since I'm rarely towing anything, and my commute does not include high speed highway travel, this isn't a huge "emergency" although I will air up when I get the chance (usually after work).
However, if one is showing 15psi and the others are 36, that situation needs to be dealt with differently. It's primarily convenience. When I'm leaving the house for work and the tire light comes on, if I can see the readings in the cab I can make a quick informed decision based on that information - return home and get a different vehicle, or continue on and address the issue after work. I don't have to stop, get out and look, or grab a gauge and start checking them individually - I already know what's going on.
I guess the TPMS readout is my "expectation" gripe. Don't tell 1engineer! :laugh: