What is the TPMS system?
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is an electronic system that alerts the driver when air pressure in one of the tires drops below the allowed limit.
Since November 2014, this system has been mandatory in all newly registered new cars in the European Union.

Is a TPMS warning itself a violation?
Not automatically.
However, ignoring a TPMS warning can be treated as an offense if it creates a danger or causes a driving/handling issue. In the following cases, penalties may apply:

If police stop you and notice clearly low pressure while you have been ignoring the warning, your driving may be considered intentional negligence.

Do you have to fix TPMS if it’s not working?
Yes. If TPMS is defective (for example, after changing tires without recalibration), it is considered a technical defect and may lead to:

• failing the periodic TÜV inspection

• being required to repair it immediately

• refusal to register a new vehicle if it does not have a functioning TPMS

Under § 36 Absatz 2a StVZO, TPMS is part of the basic safety requirements.

What is expected from the driver?

• check tire pressure manually when the warning appears and don’t rely on the system alone

• calibrate/reset TPMS after tire changes or swapping wheel positions

• do not ignore the warning for long periods while driving

Conclusion
A TPMS warning is not just an “annoying dashboard light” — it can become a legal responsibility. If the system is faulty or the warning is ignored, especially when there is a real tire issue, you may face fines, points, or a failed TÜV result.
Don’t risk your tires or your license — a few seconds of checking can prevent costly problems.

ـ* The site’s writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research; however, errors or unconfirmed details may occur. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the competent authorities for verified information.