Cold weather across the Ozarks triggers tire pressure lights

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - Cold temperatures creeping across the Ozarks are causing tire pressure lights to illuminate on dashboards, prompting car experts to remind drivers not to ignore the warning.

Tim Fess, general manager at Rick’s Automotive, said cold outside air reduces pressure inside tires, causing them to deflate.

“For every 10 degrees temperature drop, you may lower the PSI by a pound or two per square inch,” Fess said.

Low tire pressure can create handling problems and, in some cases, cause tires to dismount or blow out, Fess said. The tire can fall off the wheel itself.

Winter commonly brings frozen car doors, Fess said. He advises against forcing them open.

“We see door handles break under extreme conditions as well,” Fess said. “Most of them are made out of a plastic com