2015 BMW I3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Troubleshooting the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2015 BMW i3: Causes and Solutions

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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 2015 BMW i3 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 tire 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 2015 BMW i3 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.

When a tire pressure monitoring sensor fails, the tire pressure monitoring system control module will recognize a loss in communication and turn on the warning lamp which indicates the failure. This is most often the case. However, the tire pressure monitoring sensor may also fail by reporting incorrect tire pressures. This could cause a flat tire to go unrecognized, or a properly inflated tire to signal a low or high tire pressure warning.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

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 steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in my 2015 BMW i3?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2015 BMW i3, start by manually checking the tire pressure of each tire. This initial step is crucial as it helps identify if low tire pressure is the root cause of the warning light. If the pressure is indeed low, inflate the tires to the recommended levels, which can often resolve the issue. If the tire pressure is adequate, consider the possibility of a malfunctioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor, which may require further investigation. Pay attention to any specific warning lights on your dashboard, such as the TPM inactive light, which indicates that the system is unable to detect tire pressure loss. If this occurs, it’s advisable to consult a service center for a thorough check. Additionally, be aware of common culprits like temperature fluctuations or tire punctures, as these can also trigger the warning light. Understanding how the TPMS functions and its importance in maintaining tire health will empower you to take the necessary steps to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2015 BMW i3?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2015 BMW i3, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIY enthusiasts should be aware of. One of the primary culprits is a leaking tire, which can lead to a gradual loss of air pressure, prompting the warning light to activate. Additionally, a faulty tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may misread the tire pressure or fail to communicate properly, causing the light to stay on even if the tires are adequately inflated. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning TPMS sensor, particularly in direct systems, which can erroneously signal low pressure. Temperature fluctuations can also play a role, as colder weather can reduce tire pressure, triggering the alert. Lastly, a puncture from a sharp object can lead to significant air loss, necessitating immediate attention. Addressing these issues not only ensures the warning light is resolved but also promotes safe driving and optimal tire performance.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2015 BMW i3?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2015 BMW i3 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including compromised vehicle handling, increased tire wear, and even the risk of a blowout while driving. Proper tire pressure is essential for optimal performance and safety, as it directly affects traction, braking distance, and fuel efficiency. Additionally, fluctuations in temperature can cause tire pressure to drop unexpectedly, exacerbating the risk of tire failure. By promptly responding to the tire pressure warning light, you not only enhance your driving experience but also safeguard yourself and others on the road. Therefore, it is imperative to check your tire pressure regularly and address any discrepancies as soon as they arise to maintain the longevity and reliability of your BMW i3.

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