2021 Kia Sorento Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2021 Kia Sorento: Causes and Solutions

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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 2021 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento 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 2021 Kia Sorento?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2021 Kia Sorento, begin with a thorough check of the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels outlined in your vehicle's manual, as improper inflation is a common cause of warning lights. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tire pressure appears correct and the tires are in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as temporary fluctuations can sometimes trigger the warning light. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of damage or leaks, as faulty valve stems can also lead to pressure issues. If the warning light remains illuminated after these checks, it may be time to consult a mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis, ensuring that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue, maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2021 Kia Sorento?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in your 2021 Kia Sorento, it’s important to identify the underlying issues that may be causing this alert. One of the most frequent reasons is low tire pressure, which can result from natural air loss or changes in temperature. Regularly checking and inflating your tires to the recommended levels can often resolve this problem. Another possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor; if this component is malfunctioning, it may not provide accurate readings, leading to the warning light remaining illuminated. Additionally, the tire pressure monitoring system itself might be experiencing a malfunction, which could require a reset or recalibration to function correctly. Environmental factors, such as significant temperature fluctuations, can also affect tire pressure, so it’s essential to adjust accordingly. Inspecting your tires for any leaks or punctures is crucial, as damage can lead to air loss and trigger the warning light. Lastly, if you suspect electrical issues within the vehicle, a professional diagnostic check may be necessary to identify and resolve the problem. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively troubleshoot the persistent tire pressure warning light in your Kia Sorento.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2021 Kia Sorento that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2021 Kia Sorento that remains illuminated is an urgent matter that DIY enthusiasts should not overlook. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety concerns, as improper tire pressure significantly affects vehicle handling, braking, and overall stability, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, driving with low tire pressure can cause uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also raises the likelihood of a blowout, potentially leading to costly repairs and dangerous situations on the road. Furthermore, incorrect tire pressure can negatively impact fuel efficiency, resulting in higher fuel costs over time. Lastly, a persistent warning light may indicate a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which requires immediate attention to ensure the system functions correctly. Therefore, it is crucial to check and adjust tire pressure promptly, and if the warning light continues to stay on after addressing the tires, seeking professional assistance to inspect the TPMS is highly recommended.

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2021 Kia Sorento Tire Pressure Warning Light Guide