2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2021 GMC Sierra 1500: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2021 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 2021 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 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 steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on my 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simple checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by using a tire pressure gauge to measure the air pressure in all four tires, ensuring they meet the recommended PSI specified in your vehicle's manual. If the pressure is low, inflate the tires accordingly. Next, conduct a visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. Don’t forget to examine the valve stems for any leaks or damage, as these can also contribute to pressure loss. If you have corrected the tire pressure and checked for damage, consult your vehicle's manual to see if there is a procedure to reset the tire pressure monitoring system, as this may resolve the warning light issue. However, if the warning light remains illuminated after these steps, it may be time to seek professional assistance from a mechanic or dealership for a more comprehensive diagnosis. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently address the tire pressure warning light concern and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, it can signal several underlying issues that DIYers should investigate. The most common reason is low tire pressure, so the first step is to check and inflate all tires to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the problem may stem from a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could either be malfunctioning or in need of a battery replacement. These sensors can degrade over time, leading to incorrect readings and a persistent warning light. Additionally, the tire pressure monitoring system might require recalibration, a process that can often be performed by following the vehicle's manual instructions. If these troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure a comprehensive diagnosis and maintain the vehicle's safety on the road.

What immediate steps should be taken if the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, it is crucial to act promptly to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including reduced traction, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose significant safety risks on the road. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires with a reliable gauge, ensuring they meet the recommended levels found in your owner's manual or on the door jamb sticker. If you discover any underinflated tires, inflate them to the correct pressure, as this simple action can often reset the tire pressure monitoring system and turn off the warning light. Additionally, inspect your tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could compromise their integrity. If you find any issues, it’s essential to repair or replace the affected tire immediately. In some cases, you may need to manually reset the tire pressure monitoring system after making adjustments, so consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. If the warning light persists despite these efforts, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance, as there may be a deeper issue with the monitoring system that requires expert attention. By taking these steps, you not only address the warning light but also safeguard your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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