2016 GMC Terrain Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2016 GMC Terrain: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2016 GMC Terrain 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 2016 GMC Terrain 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 are the initial steps to diagnose a tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2016 GMC Terrain?

To effectively diagnose a tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2016 GMC Terrain, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by manually checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker. Next, conduct a visual inspection of the tires for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. If the tire pressure appears normal and no visible damage is detected, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system according to the instructions in your owner's manual, as this can sometimes clear false alerts. Additionally, inspect the valve stems for any signs of leaks or damage, as faulty valve stems can also trigger the warning light. If, after completing these steps, the warning light persists, it is advisable to consult a mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis, as they possess specialized tools to identify more intricate issues that may be affecting your vehicle's tire pressure monitoring system. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the problem and ensure your GMC Terrain is safe and roadworthy.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2016 GMC Terrain?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 2016 GMC Terrain, it can be frustrating for drivers looking to resolve the issue themselves. One of the most frequent culprits is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked and adjusted using a tire pressure gauge. If the pressure is within the recommended range and the light persists, the problem may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor. In such cases, replacing the sensor could be necessary. Additionally, the sensors might require recalibration to ensure they are functioning correctly, a process that can often be found in the vehicle's manual. Electrical or wiring issues can also contribute to the warning light staying on, so inspecting these components for any signs of damage or disconnection is advisable. Lastly, if all else fails, there may be a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself, which would require further diagnosis and repair. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can take informed steps to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in their GMC Terrain.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2016 GMC Terrain?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in a 2016 GMC Terrain 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 often indicates that one or more tires are underinflated, which can severely compromise the vehicle's handling and stability. This is particularly critical during emergency maneuvers or in adverse weather conditions, where proper traction is essential for safe driving. Additionally, driving on underinflated tires can lead to increased fuel consumption and premature tire wear, ultimately resulting in higher costs for replacements. Furthermore, a persistent warning light may signal underlying mechanical issues with the tire pressure monitoring system itself, which could lead to further complications if not addressed promptly. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to check tire pressures regularly and respond immediately to any warning lights to ensure both safety and optimal vehicle performance.

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