2018 BMW I3s Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 BMW i3s: Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
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 2018 BMW i3s 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 2018 BMW i3s 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 persistent tire pressure warning light on my 2018 BMW i3s?

To effectively diagnose the persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2018 BMW i3s, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure of all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as low pressure is a frequent culprit for triggering the warning light. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage or punctures that could indicate a leak. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system following the instructions in your vehicle's manual, as this can sometimes resolve the issue. Additionally, examine the tire pressure sensors for any visible damage or malfunction. If the warning light remains illuminated after these steps, it may be necessary to consult a certified mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair, as the problem could be more complex than a simple tire issue. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the warning light and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 BMW i3s?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 BMW i3s, it can indicate several common issues that DIY enthusiasts can troubleshoot. The first step is to check the tire pressure in all four tires, as low pressure is the most frequent cause of the warning light. Ensure each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, which can often resolve the issue. If the tire pressure is adequate, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor; if the sensor is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, sensor calibration might be necessary, as improperly calibrated sensors can lead to persistent warning lights. Inspecting the tires for visible damage or slow leaks is also essential, as even minor punctures can cause pressure drops. Seasonal changes, particularly colder weather, can affect tire pressure, so adjusting accordingly is crucial. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may indicate electrical problems within the tire pressure monitoring system, which would require a diagnostic check by a professional. By systematically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your BMW i3s.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2018 BMW i3s that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2018 BMW i3s is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that one or more tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This increases the likelihood of accidents or tire blowouts, putting both you and other road users at risk. Additionally, driving on improperly inflated tires can lead to uneven wear, significantly shortening their lifespan and potentially resulting in costly replacements. Furthermore, underinflated tires can negatively impact your fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. To ensure your safety, prolong the life of your tires, and maintain optimal vehicle performance, it is essential to promptly check and adjust your tire pressure whenever the warning light is activated. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, making it imperative to take action as soon as possible.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.