2018 Chevrolet Malibu Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 Chevrolet Malibu: 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu 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 Chevrolet Malibu 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 on my 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires with a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that the readings align with the recommended PSI found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker. Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or uneven wear, which could indicate alignment problems. If the tire pressure is correct and the tires appear undamaged, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as it may require recalibration. Don’t overlook the spare tire, as low pressure in this tire can also trigger the warning light. If, after these steps, the warning light remains illuminated, it’s advisable to consult a mechanic or dealership. They possess the specialized tools necessary to diagnose any underlying issues with the TPMS sensors or system, ensuring your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light issue and maintain optimal tire health.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, it’s essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can result from a slow leak, temperature fluctuations, or improper inflation. Regularly checking your tire pressure with a reliable gauge can help you identify if this is the issue. Another possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor; if the sensor is malfunctioning, it may not provide accurate readings, keeping the warning light on. Additionally, the batteries in tire pressure sensors can deplete over time, necessitating replacement to restore functionality. Lastly, if the tire pressure monitoring system has not been calibrated correctly, it may trigger the warning light unnecessarily. By systematically checking these factors, you can often resolve the issue yourself, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy. If these steps do not rectify the problem, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic may be necessary for a more in-depth diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to compromised vehicle handling and braking, significantly increasing the risk of accidents, particularly in challenging driving conditions. Furthermore, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, which can necessitate costly premature tire replacements. The financial impact extends beyond tire costs, as low tire pressure can also reduce fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel expenses over time. Additionally, prolonged neglect of low tire pressure can result in severe tire damage, including the risk of blowouts while driving. Therefore, it is essential to check and inflate your tires to the recommended levels as soon as the warning light activates. If the light remains illuminated after addressing the tire pressure, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic to diagnose any underlying issues, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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