2012 Chevrolet Equinox Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2012 Chevrolet Equinox

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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 2012 Chevrolet Equinox 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 2012 Chevrolet Equinox 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.

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 2012 Chevrolet Equinox?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your vehicle's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the pressure is low. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could also trigger the warning. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consult your vehicle's manual to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), as sometimes the system may need a refresh after correcting the pressure. Additionally, check the functionality of the tire pressure sensors located within each tire, as faulty sensors can lead to persistent warning lights. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to seek assistance from a certified mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light in your Equinox.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. First, check the tire pressure in all four tires, as both overinflation and underinflation can trigger the warning light. If the pressure is within the recommended range, the next step is to inspect the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors, as they may be malfunctioning or require a reset, especially if recent tire work was performed. Additionally, consider the possibility of a faulty sensor battery or receiver, which can also cause the light to stay on despite proper tire pressure. If the light is blinking, it may indicate a more urgent issue, such as significantly low tire pressure or a sensor problem that needs immediate attention. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the cause of the tire pressure warning light in your Equinox.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is crucial for maintaining both safety and vehicle performance. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety concerns, as low tire pressure significantly impacts handling and braking, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly in challenging driving conditions. Additionally, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also necessitates costly replacements sooner than expected. Furthermore, low tire pressure can adversely affect fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. The risk of tire damage is another critical factor; prolonged driving with insufficient tire pressure can result in severe tire damage or even blowouts, posing a danger to you and other road users. Therefore, it is essential to check and adjust your tire pressure promptly according to the manufacturer's specifications. If the warning light persists after adjustments, it may indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires professional inspection. Taking these steps not only ensures your safety but also protects your investment in your vehicle.

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2012 Chevrolet Equinox Tire Pressure Warning Light Fixes