Kia Sorento Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

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

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Kia Sorento

When troubleshooting the tire pressure warning light in your Kia Sorento, start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as low pressure is the most common cause for the warning light to activate. If the tire pressures are correct, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or leaks, which could indicate a more serious issue. Next, consider the condition of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors; if they are old or have been exposed to harsh conditions, the batteries may need replacement. If the warning light persists after these checks, it may be necessary to reset the TPMS system, which can often be done through the vehicle's settings or by following specific reset procedures outlined in the owner's manual. Should the light continue to illuminate or flash, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic or visit an authorized Kia dealer for a comprehensive diagnostic check, as this could indicate a malfunction within the TPMS itself. By following this systematic approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve issues related to the tire pressure warning light in your Kia Sorento.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Kia Sorento

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in your Kia Sorento, it's essential to understand the common problems that could trigger this alert. One of the primary reasons for the light to illuminate is low tire pressure, which can occur due to natural air loss or a puncture. Before diving into more complex issues, always start by checking the air pressure in all four tires and ensuring they meet the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the pressure is correct and the light remains on, the problem may lie with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself. A depleted battery in one of the pressure sensors or a malfunctioning TPMS receiver module could be the culprit. In some cases, a damaged pressure sensor may need replacement. If you find that the TPMS light is blinking, this indicates a more serious issue, such as a leak in the tire or valve stem, which requires immediate attention. For models like the 2021 Kia Sorento, resetting the TPMS can often be done via a reset button or through the vehicle's menu, but if these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a professional may be necessary to avoid further complications. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light and ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Kia Sorento?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your Kia Sorento, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety risks, including reduced vehicle handling, increased stopping distances, and the potential for tire blowouts. Start by checking each tire for visible signs of leaks or damage, as a leaking tire is one of the most common culprits. Ensure that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, as under-inflation can trigger the warning light. If the tires are in good condition and properly inflated, the problem may lie within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself, which could involve a faulty sensor or a malfunctioning receiver module. Regularly monitoring your tire pressure and addressing any issues promptly not only enhances your safety on the road but also prolongs the life of your tires, making it an essential part of vehicle maintenance.

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