GMC Terrain Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your GMC Terrain and How to Resolve Them

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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 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 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.

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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a GMC Terrain

When faced with a tire pressure warning light in your GMC Terrain, the first step is to conduct a visual inspection of all tires for any visible signs of damage or leaks. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, which can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door. If the tire pressure appears to be correct, consider checking the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) for any faults. This may involve using a TPMS tool to read sensor data or checking for any error codes. If you have recently changed a tire, remember that the TPMS may need to be reset; this can usually be done by holding the reset button until the light blinks three times. If the warning light persists after these checks, it may indicate a more complex issue with the TPMS itself, which could require professional diagnostics. Regular maintenance and monitoring of tire pressure not only enhance safety but also improve fuel efficiency and extend tire life, making it essential to address any warning lights promptly.

What to Check When the Tire Pressure Warning Light is On in a GMC Terrain?

When the tire pressure warning light illuminates in your GMC Terrain, it can indicate several common problems that may require your attention. One of the most frequent issues is simply low tire pressure, which can occur due to temperature changes or slow leaks. It's essential to regularly check the pressure in all tires, including the spare, to ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the light persists even after inflating the tires, it may suggest a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor, which can fail due to age or damage. Additionally, a punctured tire or a valve stem leak can also trigger the warning light, necessitating a thorough inspection for any visible damage or air loss. In some cases, the TPMS may need to be reset using an OBD2 scanner if the system has not recognized the corrected tire pressures. By understanding these common problems, you can take proactive steps to maintain your vehicle's safety and performance.

What Should You Do When the Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On in a GMC Terrain?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your GMC Terrain, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased vehicle stability, increased tire wear, and even blowouts, which can result in dangerous driving conditions. Start by checking for any visible leaks in your tires, as a slow leak is a common culprit. Next, inspect all wheels to ensure they are properly inflated and holding air. If the tires appear fine, the problem may lie within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which could be malfunctioning or have damaged sensors. Neglecting these symptoms not only compromises your safety but can also lead to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to take immediate action, whether that means inflating your tires, repairing leaks, or consulting a professional if the warning light persists. By being proactive, you can maintain the safety and performance of your GMC Terrain.

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