1995 BMW 318is Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 1995 BMW 318is

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1995 BMW 318is tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1995 BMW 318is tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Wheels offer very few symptoms, but these symptoms should never be ignored. Visible cracks on the wheels may appear, especially after hitting a large bump, Most often, this will also be accompanied by loss of air from the tire on that wheel. Also, vibration in the steering wheel is very common when the tire is out of balance, and improper wheel nuts or bolts can cause creaking and popping noises to develop. Again, there are very few symptoms, but they should not be ignored.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What are the diagnostic steps to take when the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 1995 BMW 318is?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1995 BMW 318is, the first step is to check the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. This simple action can often resolve the issue if the light is triggered by low pressure. If the tires are properly inflated, inspect them for any visible signs of leaks or punctures, as these can lead to a slow loss of air and trigger the warning light. If no physical damage is found, consider resetting the tire pressure sensor, which can sometimes become miscalibrated. This process typically involves following specific instructions found in your vehicle's manual, as the reset procedure can vary. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the tire pressure warning light issue, ensuring your BMW remains safe and roadworthy.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1995 BMW 318is?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1995 BMW 318is, it’s essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. First, check the tire pressure; both under-inflation and over-inflation can trigger the warning light, as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is designed to alert you to any significant deviations from the recommended pressure. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage or punctures, as these can lead to air loss and cause the warning light to stay on. Additionally, consider the possibility of a malfunctioning TPMS sensor, which may provide inaccurate readings and keep the light illuminated even if the tire pressure is correct. Temperature fluctuations can also impact tire pressure, so be mindful of recent weather changes that might affect your tires. If you’ve checked all these factors and the light persists, you may need to reset the TPMS system according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that your vehicle’s computer is accurately reflecting the current tire conditions. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and ensure your BMW is safe and road-ready.

What immediate steps should be taken to address the tire pressure warning light that remains on in a 1995 BMW 318is?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1995 BMW 318is, it is crucial to act promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Ignoring this warning can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling, which may increase the risk of accidents. Start by checking the tire pressure of all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the light persists after correcting the pressure, driving at a steady speed of 50 mph for about 10 minutes can help reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Additionally, consult your vehicle's manual for specific reset instructions, as these can vary. If necessary, locate the TPMS reset button, typically found under the steering wheel, and press and hold it until the warning light blinks three times. After releasing the button, start your car and allow approximately 20 minutes for the system to refresh. By taking these immediate steps, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also ensure your safety on the road.

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