2018 Dodge Journey Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Dodge Journey and How to Resolve Them

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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 Dodge Journey 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 Dodge Journey 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 of a TPMS control module failure are failing to alert the driver of underinflation or overinflation of one or more tires, failure to communicate with the body control module or TPMS sensors, or erroneously reporting incorrect tire pressure.

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 are the initial steps to diagnose a tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Dodge Journey?

When faced with a tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2018 Dodge Journey, the first step is to manually check the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare if applicable. Using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensure that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended PSI levels, as incorrect pressure can trigger the warning light. Next, visually inspect the tires for any signs of damage such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) in your vehicle, as this can sometimes clear false alerts. Additionally, examine the valve stems on each tire for any leaks or damage, as faulty valve stems can also lead to pressure loss. If, after completing these steps, the warning light persists, it may be time to consult a mechanic or dealership for a more comprehensive diagnosis, as they have the specialized tools necessary to identify deeper issues. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Dodge Journey?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 Dodge Journey, it can be indicative of several common problems 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. If the pressure is adequate, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, if you've recently rotated or replaced your tires, the sensors might require recalibration to ensure they are functioning properly. Electrical issues, such as damaged wiring or blown fuses, can also lead to the warning light remaining illuminated, so a careful inspection of the vehicle's electrical components is essential. Lastly, a simple system reset of the tire pressure monitoring system can sometimes clear the warning light. If these DIY checks do not resolve the issue, consulting a certified mechanic for a more detailed diagnosis may be necessary.

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

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2018 Dodge Journey is of utmost importance due to the significant safety risks and potential vehicle damage associated with neglecting this issue. When the warning light is on, it indicates that one or more tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, driving on improperly inflated tires can lead to uneven wear, resulting in premature tire failure and costly replacements. Furthermore, maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for optimal fuel efficiency; underinflated tires can cause your vehicle to consume more fuel, leading to higher expenses at the pump. Lastly, the overall performance of your Dodge Journey can be adversely affected, impacting braking and stability. Therefore, it is crucial to check your tire pressure regularly, inflate your tires to the recommended levels, and investigate any underlying issues that may be causing the warning light to remain on. Taking these steps not only ensures your safety but also enhances the longevity and efficiency of your vehicle.

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