2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2012 GMC Sierra 1500

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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 2012 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 2012 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 on my 2012 GMC Sierra 1500?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended PSI outlined in your vehicle's manual. If the pressure is correct, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could trigger the warning light. If the tires appear to be in good condition, the next step is to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), as sometimes the system may require a reset to function correctly. Refer to your vehicle's manual for specific instructions on how to perform this reset. Additionally, examine the TPMS sensors on each tire to confirm they are operational and undamaged. If, after completing these steps, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic or dealership for a thorough diagnosis and repair of the TPMS system. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light issue and maintain your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the primary reasons for the warning light is low tire pressure, so start by checking each tire and inflating them to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the issue might stem from a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need replacement. Additionally, keep in mind that the sensors have batteries that can wear out over time, potentially causing the light to remain illuminated. In some instances, the tire pressure monitoring system may require recalibration to ensure it functions correctly. Lastly, inspect the vehicle’s electrical connections and wiring, as any faults in these areas can also lead to the warning light staying on. By addressing these common issues, you can effectively resolve the tire pressure warning light problem in your GMC Sierra.

What immediate steps should be taken to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500?

When the tire pressure warning light illuminates on your 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, it’s crucial to act promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, increased tire wear, and even potential blowouts. Start by enabling the learn mode, which is as simple as turning the exterior lamp switch from "OFF" to parking lamps four times within four seconds. This action will trigger a horn chirp and a flashing low tire pressure light, confirming that the system is ready for recalibration. Next, check the tire pressure on all four tires, adjusting them to the recommended levels found in your owner’s manual. If any tires are under-inflated, inflate them accordingly. After making these adjustments, take your Sierra for a short drive; this allows the tire pressure monitoring system to recalibrate. If the warning light remains illuminated despite your efforts, it may indicate a deeper issue with the tire pressure monitoring system, necessitating a visit to a qualified mechanic. By addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly, you not only enhance your driving safety but also prevent further damage to your vehicle.

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