Chevrolet Malibu Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Chevrolet Malibu and How to Resolve It

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 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 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.

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 Chevrolet Malibu

When the tire pressure warning light illuminates in your Chevrolet Malibu, it’s crucial to approach the situation methodically. Start by safely pulling over to check the tire pressure in all tires, including the spare, using a reliable tire pressure gauge. This initial step helps determine if the issue is simply low or high tire pressure, which can often be resolved by inflating or deflating the tires to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. If the tire pressures are within the correct range and the light remains on, it may indicate a malfunction within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) itself, such as a faulty sensor or a problem with the central control module. In this case, further diagnostics may be necessary, which could involve using an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes related to the TPMS. Understanding these steps not only aids in resolving the warning light issue but also ensures your vehicle operates safely and efficiently, maintaining optimal performance on the road.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Chevrolet Malibu

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in a Chevrolet Malibu, it's essential to understand the common problems that may trigger this alert. One of the primary culprits is a leaking tire, which can lead to a gradual loss of air pressure, causing the warning light to illuminate. Additionally, a wheel that fails to maintain air pressure due to damage or wear can also be a significant factor. It's crucial to inspect each tire for visible signs of damage, such as punctures or cracks, as these can compromise the tire's integrity. Another common issue is a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which may not accurately reflect the tire pressure levels. This can stem from faulty sensors or issues within the central control module of the TPMS. Regular maintenance of the TPMS is vital, as it not only ensures accurate readings but also contributes to overall vehicle safety and performance. By being aware of these common problems and conducting thorough checks, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and maintain optimal driving conditions in your Chevrolet Malibu.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Chevrolet Malibu?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your Chevrolet Malibu, it is essential to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety risks, including compromised steering and handling, which may result in accidents. Low tire pressure not only affects vehicle performance but can also cause tires to overheat and fail, leading to potentially dangerous blowouts. Additionally, a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can prevent you from accurately assessing tire conditions, further exacerbating the risk of driving on under-inflated or over-inflated tires. To ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle, it is crucial to check your tire pressure regularly, inspect for leaks, and address any issues with the TPMS promptly. Taking these steps can help you maintain optimal driving conditions and avoid costly repairs down the line.

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