2020 BMW I3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Troubleshooting the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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 are the initial steps to diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on a 2020 BMW i3?

To effectively diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2020 BMW i3, start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your owner's manual. This simple step can often resolve the issue if the light is triggered by low pressure. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or cuts, which could lead to air loss. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system following the manufacturer's instructions; this can sometimes clear false warnings. To confirm the accuracy of your findings, use a reliable tire pressure gauge to double-check the pressure readings. If the warning light remains illuminated despite these efforts, it may indicate a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring sensor, which would require professional diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the issue and determine the necessary next steps.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2020 BMW i3?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2020 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 that 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, which may require replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can arise, particularly after tire rotations or replacements, necessitating a recalibration at a BMW service center. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also lead to persistent warning lights, so a thorough inspection may be needed to identify any underlying issues. Lastly, keep in mind that temperature fluctuations can affect tire pressure; always check your tire pressure when the tires are cold for the most accurate results. If you've addressed these common problems and the warning light persists, consulting a certified BMW technician is advisable for a comprehensive diagnosis and resolution.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 2020 BMW i3?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2020 BMW i3, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased vehicle performance, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose serious risks while driving. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires with a reliable gauge, ensuring they meet the manufacturer's recommended levels. If you find any tires underinflated, inflate them accordingly; this simple step can often reset the tire pressure monitoring system and turn off the warning light. Additionally, consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to manually reset the system, as this may also resolve the issue. However, if the warning light persists despite these efforts, it may indicate a more serious underlying problem that requires professional attention. Addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly not only enhances your safety on the road but also helps maintain the longevity and efficiency of your vehicle.

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