2018 Kia Soul EV Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes of the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Kia Soul EV 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 2018 Kia Soul EV 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 Soul EV 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 in my 2018 Kia Soul EV?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2018 Kia Soul EV, begin with a thorough check of the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. It's essential to compare the readings against the recommended PSI, which can be found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb sticker. Next, inspect each tire for visible damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, and ensure there are no foreign objects lodged in the tread that could lead to air loss. If you find that the tire pressure is low, inflate the tires to the correct level; if it's too high, carefully release some air until it reaches the recommended PSI. After adjusting the pressure, you may need to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) through your vehicle's settings menu or by following the specific instructions in the owner's manual. If the warning light remains illuminated despite these efforts, it may indicate a more complex issue, such as a faulty sensor or a malfunction within the system, at which point consulting a certified mechanic or Kia dealership for professional assistance is advisable. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What are the common causes for the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2018 Kia Soul EV?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in your 2018 Kia Soul EV, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked with a tire pressure gauge. If the pressure is below the recommended levels, simply inflating the tires can resolve the warning light. However, if the pressure is adequate, the problem may lie with the tire pressure sensors themselves. These sensors can fail or require battery replacements, as they have a limited lifespan. Additionally, if the sensors are malfunctioning or if the tire pressure monitoring system needs recalibration, this can also trigger the warning light. External factors such as extreme temperature fluctuations or rough driving conditions can further complicate the situation, affecting tire pressure readings. By systematically checking these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the tire pressure warning light concern in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Kia Soul EV?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Kia Soul EV is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. Underinflated tires can lead to increased stopping distances and a higher risk of losing control, especially in adverse weather conditions. Moreover, neglecting this warning can result in decreased fuel efficiency, causing you to spend more on gas over time, and can accelerate tire wear, leading to costly replacements. Additionally, the warning light may indicate a more serious issue, such as a tire leak or puncture, which could result in a flat tire or even a blowout while driving. Therefore, it is essential to check your tire pressure regularly, inflate your tires to the recommended levels, and inspect them for any visible damage. If the warning light persists after these checks, seeking the expertise of a qualified mechanic is crucial to prevent potential accidents and ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently. Taking these steps not only enhances your safety but also prolongs the life of your tires and optimizes your vehicle's performance.

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2018 Kia Soul EV Tire Pressure Warning Light Guide