2018 Lexus RX450h Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Lexus RX450h 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 Lexus RX450h 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 Lexus RX450h 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 are the initial steps to diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on a 2018 Lexus RX450h?

When faced with a persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2018 Lexus RX450h, the first step is to check the tire pressure across all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. Low tire pressure is a frequent culprit for triggering this warning. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a leak. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system as outlined in your vehicle's manual; this can sometimes resolve false alerts. To ensure accuracy, use a reliable tire pressure gauge to double-check the readings. Additionally, inspect the valve stems for any signs of wear or leaks that might be causing the warning light to activate. Finally, consulting your vehicle's manual can provide specific troubleshooting steps tailored to your model, helping you navigate the diagnostic process effectively. By following these initial steps, you can systematically address the issue and potentially resolve the warning light without needing professional assistance.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Lexus RX450h?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 Lexus RX450h, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. First and foremost, low tire pressure is often the culprit; checking and inflating each tire to the manufacturer’s recommended levels is a straightforward task that can resolve the issue. If the tire pressure is adequate, the next step is to consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor. These sensors can malfunction or fail over time, leading to inaccurate readings. Additionally, the sensors are equipped with batteries that may need replacement, as a low or dead battery can trigger the warning light. If the sensors are functioning properly, it may be necessary to recalibrate the tire pressure monitoring system to ensure it is accurately detecting tire pressure levels. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.

What immediate steps should be taken to address the tire pressure warning light that remains on in a 2018 Lexus RX450h?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2018 Lexus RX450h, it is crucial to act promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased vehicle performance, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose serious risks on the road. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare, using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure each tire is inflated to the recommended levels found in your vehicle's manual, as underinflated tires can significantly affect handling and fuel efficiency. If you discover any tires are low, inflate them accordingly to resolve the warning light issue. Additionally, inspect your tires for visible damage such as punctures or bulges, as these can compromise safety and necessitate repairs or replacements. Once you have adjusted the tire pressure and checked for damage, reset the tire pressure monitoring system through your vehicle's onboard menu or by following the owner's manual instructions. If the warning light persists despite these efforts, it is essential to seek professional assistance, as there may be a deeper issue with the monitoring system that requires expert diagnosis. Taking these immediate steps not only ensures your safety but also helps maintain the longevity and performance of your vehicle.

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2018 Lexus RX450h Tire Pressure Warning Light Causes & Fixes