2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2009 GMC Sierra 1500

Find Repair Location
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 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 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 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 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 2009 GMC Sierra 1500?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2009 GMC Sierra 1500, start by visually inspecting each tire for any signs of leaks or damage, as these are the most common culprits. Ensure that all tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as an imbalance can trigger the warning light. If the tires appear fine, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by adjusting the tire pressures to the correct levels, which can often be done without specialized tools. If the light persists, utilize an OBDII scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the TPMS, which can provide insight into any underlying issues. Pay attention to a blinking TPMS light, as this indicates a malfunction in the tire pressure sensor or receiver, necessitating further investigation. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively identify and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue, ensuring your GMC Sierra 1500 remains safe and roadworthy.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2009 GMC Sierra 1500?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in your 2009 GMC Sierra 1500, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. The most frequent cause is low tire pressure, which can be easily checked and adjusted to the recommended levels. If the pressure is fine, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need replacement to function correctly. Additionally, the sensor's battery could be low or dead, leading to the warning light's illumination. Sometimes, the tire pressure monitoring system requires recalibration to ensure it provides accurate readings. Lastly, inspect the electrical system and wiring for any faults, as these can also contribute to the warning light staying on. By addressing these issues methodically, you can resolve the tire pressure warning light problem and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on my 2009 GMC Sierra 1500?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety risks, including reduced traction and an increased likelihood of tire blowouts, which can compromise your control over the vehicle. Additionally, improper tire pressure can accelerate tire wear and negatively impact your fuel efficiency, leading to higher costs over time. Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for optimal vehicle performance, as it enhances stability and braking capabilities. Therefore, it is crucial to check and adjust your tire pressure as soon as the warning light illuminates, ensuring a safer driving experience and prolonging the life of your tires. Taking immediate action not only protects your safety but also contributes to the overall maintenance and efficiency of your vehicle.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Tire Pressure Warning Light Issues