2018 Kia Rio Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Kia Rio and How to Resolve Them

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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 2018 Kia Rio 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 2018 Kia Rio 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 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 in my 2018 Kia Rio?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2018 Kia Rio, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your vehicle's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the pressure is simply low. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could also trigger the warning. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as outlined in your vehicle's manual, as sometimes the system may need a refresh. Additionally, examine the TPMS sensors on each tire to confirm they are functioning correctly, as faulty sensors can lead to persistent warning lights. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a certified mechanic or dealership for a more thorough inspection, ensuring that any underlying problems are addressed promptly. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your Kia Rio.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Kia Rio?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 Kia Rio, it is essential to identify the underlying issues to ensure safe driving. The most common reason for this warning light is low tire pressure, which can result from natural air loss or punctures. Regularly checking and maintaining the recommended tire pressure is vital for optimal vehicle performance and safety. If the tire pressure is adequate, the problem may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could require replacement to function correctly. Additionally, the sensors may need recalibration to provide accurate readings, a process that can often be done following the manufacturer's guidelines. Electrical or wiring issues within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, necessitating a detailed inspection of the vehicle's electrical components. In some cases, a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself may be the cause, requiring diagnostic testing to pinpoint and resolve the issue. By addressing these potential problems promptly, you can enhance your vehicle's safety and longevity.

What immediate steps should be taken if the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 2018 Kia Rio?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2018 Kia Rio, it is crucial to act promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased traction, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which can compromise your safety on the road. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires with a reliable gauge, ensuring they meet the manufacturer's recommended levels. If you find any tires are underinflated, inflate them immediately using a dependable air compressor. Additionally, inspect each tire for visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, as these issues can exacerbate the problem. Once you have addressed any pressure discrepancies or damage, reset the tire pressure monitoring system according to your owner's manual. If the warning light persists despite these efforts, it is essential to seek professional assistance to prevent further complications. Taking these immediate steps not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety and that of others on the road.

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