2021 Kia Sportage Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2021 Kia Sportage: Causes and Solutions

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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 2021 Kia Sportage 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 Sportage 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 Sportage?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2021 Kia Sportage, begin with the simplest solution: checking the tire pressure in all four tires. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended PSI, which can be found in your owner's manual or on the sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. If you discover any tires that are underinflated, add air until they reach the correct pressure, and conversely, release air from any overinflated tires. Next, inspect each tire for visible damage such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, as these can lead to air leaks and trigger the warning light. After adjusting the tire pressures, it may be necessary to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS); refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to perform this reset. Don’t overlook the spare tire, as it can also affect the TPMS if its pressure is low. If the warning light remains illuminated after these checks and adjustments, it may indicate a more complex issue with the TPMS sensors or system, at which point consulting a certified mechanic or dealership for a professional diagnosis 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 could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2021 Kia Sportage?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2021 Kia Sportage, it’s essential to identify the underlying issues to ensure safe driving. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can result from natural air loss or changes in temperature. Regularly checking and maintaining your tire pressure at the recommended levels is vital for optimal vehicle performance. Another potential issue could be a faulty tire pressure sensor; if the sensor is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced to restore accurate readings. Calibration problems can also occur, where the sensors fail to provide correct pressure data, requiring a recalibration process to fix. Additionally, electrical issues within the tire pressure monitoring system can cause the warning light to remain illuminated, so inspecting the wiring and connections is advisable. Environmental factors, such as extreme heat or cold, can also impact tire pressure, making it crucial to monitor your tires during seasonal changes. Lastly, inspect your tires for any damage or slow leaks, as these can lead to low pressure and trigger the warning light. By understanding these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot the issue and maintain a safe driving experience.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light on my 2021 Kia Sportage stays on?

When the tire pressure warning light on your 2021 Kia Sportage remains illuminated, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to compromised handling, increased tire wear, and even blowouts, which pose significant risks while driving. Start by checking the tire pressure in all tires, including the spare, using a reliable gauge to confirm that they meet the manufacturer's recommended levels. If you find any discrepancies, adjust the pressure accordingly, as both overinflation and underinflation can adversely affect your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, inspect your tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could necessitate professional repair or replacement. After making the necessary adjustments, you may need to reset the tire pressure monitoring system, so consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. If the warning light persists despite your efforts, it is advisable to seek assistance from a certified mechanic or Kia dealership, as there may be a deeper issue with the monitoring system that requires expert diagnosis. By addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly, you not only enhance your safety on the road but also protect your vehicle from potential damage.

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