2012 Honda Pilot Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2012 Honda Pilot and How to Resolve Them

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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 2012 Honda Pilot 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 Honda Pilot 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on my 2012 Honda Pilot?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2012 Honda Pilot, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they meet the manufacturer's recommended PSI. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the tires are simply under-inflated. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. Don’t overlook the valve stems; check them for any signs of wear or leaks, as these can also lead to air loss. If the warning light persists, consider using a TPMS tool to scan for fault codes related to the tire pressure monitoring system, as this can provide insights into more specific issues. In some cases, resetting the TPMS system may resolve the warning light, so consult your vehicle's manual for the correct procedure. If these steps do not yield results, it may be time to seek assistance from a certified mechanic or dealership for a thorough inspection and repair. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the tire pressure warning light issue.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 Honda Pilot?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2012 Honda Pilot, 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 require replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, the sensors have batteries that can wear out over time, leading to a persistent warning light when they need replacement. Another potential issue is a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself, which may require a diagnostic scan to identify wiring problems or control module failures. If the vehicle has recently undergone tire service, such as rotations or replacements, recalibrating the TPMS sensors may also be necessary to ensure they function correctly. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and performance; if the warning light remains illuminated despite these checks, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is recommended for further diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2012 Honda Pilot?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in a 2012 Honda Pilot is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety issue that demands immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that the tire pressure may be dangerously low, which can severely compromise the vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly in high-stress driving situations. Furthermore, driving on underinflated tires can lead to uneven wear, significantly shortening their lifespan and raising the risk of a blowout while on the road. Additionally, low tire pressure can negatively impact fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Ignoring this warning could also indicate a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which is essential for alerting drivers to tire issues. Therefore, it is crucial to check and adjust the tire pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications or consult a mechanic to ensure the vehicle remains safe and efficient.

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