BMW I3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your BMW i3 and How to Resolve Them

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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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a BMW i3

When addressing the tire pressure warning light in your BMW i3, start with the simplest solution: checking the tire pressure. Use a reliable pressure gauge to measure each tire, ensuring they meet the recommended levels found on the driver's side door jamb. If the pressure is off, adjust it accordingly, as both under-inflation and over-inflation can trigger the warning light. Next, consider the possibility of a leak or a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system. If the light remains illuminated after correcting the tire pressure, it may be necessary to reset the warning light. This can typically be done by turning the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine and pressing the reset button located in the glove compartment. If the issue persists, inspect the tire pressure sensors, as faulty sensors can lead to inaccurate readings. Finally, if you've completed these steps and the warning light is still on, it may be time to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and maintain your BMW i3's safety and performance.

What to Do When the Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On in a BMW i3?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in your BMW i3, it can indicate several underlying issues that require attention. One of the most common problems is low tire pressure, which can result from natural air loss, temperature changes, or slow leaks. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial, as both under-inflation and over-inflation can trigger the warning light. If the pressure is adequate but the light persists, the Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system may need resetting, a straightforward process outlined in your owner's manual. Additionally, physical damage to the tires, such as punctures or cuts, can also cause the warning light to activate. A thorough visual inspection of the tires can help identify any visible issues. If you've addressed these common problems and the warning light remains on, it may be time to consult a professional technician who can diagnose more complex issues, such as sensor malfunctions or electronic system errors. By understanding these potential problems and their solutions, you can effectively manage your BMW i3's tire pressure warning light and ensure a safer driving experience.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a BMW i3?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your BMW i3, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, such as tire blowouts or reduced vehicle handling, which can compromise your driving experience and safety. Start by checking for any visible signs of tire damage or leaks, as a tire that cannot hold air is a common culprit. Use a tire pressure gauge to verify that all tires are inflated to the recommended levels specified in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door frame. If the pressures are correct, inspect the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors for any signs of damage, as a malfunctioning sensor can also trigger the warning light. If you find that everything appears normal yet the light persists, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic to diagnose any underlying issues. Taking these steps not only helps maintain your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety and that of others on the road.

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