1997 Mitsubishi Montero Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 1997 Mitsubishi Montero

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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 1997 Mitsubishi Montero 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 1997 Mitsubishi Montero 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.

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 1997 Mitsubishi Montero?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 1997 Mitsubishi Montero, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that the readings align with the recommended PSI found in your owner's manual or on the sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. Don’t overlook the valve stems; check them for any visible damage or leaks, as these can also lead to air escaping from the tires. To further investigate potential leaks, apply a mixture of soap and water to the valve stems, tire bead, and tread area; if bubbles form, you’ve identified a leak. If your Montero is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), inspect the sensors for any signs of damage or malfunction, as these are crucial for relaying accurate tire pressure information to your vehicle's computer. After addressing any identified issues, you may need to reset the TPMS system according to the manufacturer's instructions to clear the warning light. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your vehicle.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1997 Mitsubishi Montero?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 1997 Mitsubishi Montero, it can be indicative of several common issues that are relatively straightforward to address. The first and most frequent cause is low tire pressure, which can be easily checked using a tire pressure gauge. Ensuring that all tires are inflated to the recommended levels is essential for both safety and performance. If tire pressure is not the issue, the next possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need to be replaced to restore the system's functionality. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring a recalibration process to ensure accurate readings. It's also important to consider potential electrical problems, such as wiring faults or blown fuses, which can affect the tire pressure monitoring system. Lastly, performing a system reset, as detailed in the vehicle's manual, can sometimes clear the warning light. By methodically investigating these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your Montero.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 1997 Mitsubishi Montero?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1997 Mitsubishi Montero, it is crucial to act promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to tire blowouts, reduced handling, and compromised braking performance, all of which can endanger you and other road users. Start by checking the tire pressure in all tires, including the spare, to ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressure is correct but the light persists, inspect the tires for any visible damage, as punctures or bulges can also trigger the warning. Additionally, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system according to your owner's manual, as this may resolve the issue. If the light continues to stay on, it is advisable to consult a mechanic, as a malfunctioning tire pressure sensor could be the underlying cause. Addressing these concerns swiftly not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road.

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1997 Mitsubishi Montero Tire Pressure Warning Light Guide