2017 BMW I3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Troubleshooting the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2017 BMW i3: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2017 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 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 2017 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 on my 2017 BMW i3?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2017 BMW i3, start with a manual check of the tire pressure using a reliable gauge. This initial step is crucial as it allows you to compare the readings against the recommended PSI found in your owner's manual or on the sticker located inside the driver's door jamb. If you discover that any tires are under-inflated, fill them to the appropriate pressure and recheck to ensure accuracy. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as cuts or punctures, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tires are in good condition and properly inflated, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as outlined in your owner's manual, since this may be necessary to clear the warning light. Finally, take your vehicle for a short drive to allow the TPMS to recalibrate; if the light turns off, you've successfully addressed the issue. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light concern.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2017 BMW i3?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2017 BMW i3, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which is easily checked with a tire pressure gauge. Ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, as even a slight drop can trigger the warning light. If the pressure is adequate, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor; these sensors can wear out over time and may need replacement. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can arise, particularly if tires have been changed or rotated, necessitating a recalibration to ensure accurate readings. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also lead to persistent warning lights, which may require professional diagnosis. Lastly, inspect your tires for any slow leaks, as even minor punctures can cause a gradual loss of pressure, keeping the warning light on. By systematically checking these factors, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your BMW i3.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2017 BMW i3 that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2017 BMW i3 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including compromised vehicle handling and increased risk of accidents due to poor tire performance. Low tire pressure can also accelerate tire wear, resulting in the need for premature replacements, which can be costly. Furthermore, underinflated tires negatively impact fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated, as maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for ensuring optimal vehicle performance and safety. Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure not only enhances your driving experience but also prolongs the life of your tires, making it a vital aspect of vehicle maintenance that should not be overlooked.

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