1996 Dodge Ram 2500 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light on 1996 Dodge Ram 2500

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 1996 Dodge Ram 2500 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 1996 Dodge Ram 2500 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.

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 tire pressure warning light issue in my 1996 Dodge Ram 2500?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 1996 Dodge Ram 2500, begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that the readings align with the recommended PSI found in your owner's manual or on the sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. Additionally, look for potential leaks by examining the valve stems, tire bead, and tread area; a simple mixture of soap and water can help reveal leaks, as bubbles will form where air escapes. Don’t overlook the spare tire, as it can also trigger the warning light if its pressure is low. After addressing any identified issues, you may need to reset the tire pressure monitoring system, which can typically be done through your vehicle's dashboard controls or by following the specific instructions in the owner's manual. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue, ensuring your Dodge Ram 2500 is safe and road-ready.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 1996 Dodge Ram 2500?

When dealing with a persistent tire pressure warning light in a 1996 Dodge Ram 2500, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked and adjusted to meet the manufacturer's specifications. If the tire pressure is adequate, the issue may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could be providing inaccurate readings and necessitating replacement. Additionally, the sensor might require recalibration to ensure it functions correctly, a process that can often be found in the vehicle's manual. Electrical problems within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can also lead to the warning light staying on, so inspecting the wiring and connections is crucial. Lastly, if you've recently replaced the vehicle's battery, this could inadvertently reset the TPMS, potentially resolving the warning light issue. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light concern in your Dodge Ram 2500.

What immediate steps should be taken to address the tire pressure warning light on a 1996 Dodge Ram 2500?

When the tire pressure warning light illuminates on your 1996 Dodge Ram 2500, it’s crucial to act promptly to ensure your safety and prevent potential damage to your vehicle. Low tire pressure can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, poor handling, and increased tire wear, which may result in costly repairs or even a blowout while driving. Start by checking each tire for proper inflation, as maintaining the correct pressure is essential for optimal performance. If you find any tires under-inflated, inflate them to the recommended levels. Next, consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Typically, this involves pressing and holding the TPMS reset button until the warning light blinks three times. After releasing the button, start your engine and let it run for about 20 minutes to ensure the system recalibrates and the warning light turns off. By taking these immediate steps, you not only enhance your vehicle's safety but also extend the lifespan of your tires, making it a vital DIY task for any responsible truck owner.

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