2021 Nissan Altima Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2021 Nissan Altima: Causes and Solutions

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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 2021 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima 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 2021 Nissan Altima?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2021 Nissan Altima, begin with a thorough check of the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels outlined in your vehicle's manual, as improper inflation is a common cause of warning lights. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tire pressure appears correct and the tires are in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as temporary fluctuations can sometimes trigger the warning light. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of damage or leaks, as faulty valve stems can also lead to pressure issues. If you have completed these steps and the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic or visit a Nissan service center for a comprehensive diagnosis. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the issue and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What are the common problems that could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2021 Nissan Altima?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in your 2021 Nissan Altima, it’s essential to understand the common issues that could be causing this alert. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can result from a puncture, a slow leak, or simply the natural loss of air over time. Before diving deeper, check each tire's pressure with a reliable gauge to ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the problem may lie with the tire pressure sensors themselves. A faulty sensor can fail to provide accurate readings, keeping the warning light on. Additionally, some sensors are equipped with batteries that may need replacement; a dead battery can also trigger the warning. Calibration issues can arise, requiring you to recalibrate the sensors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Furthermore, inspect the electrical connections and wiring associated with the tire pressure monitoring system, as damaged or faulty wiring can disrupt sensor signals. Lastly, consider the possibility of a system malfunction, which could stem from software glitches or more serious failures. Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your vehicle's safety but also ensures optimal performance on the road.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2021 Nissan Altima that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2021 Nissan Altima that remains illuminated is an urgent matter that DIY enthusiasts should not overlook. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety concerns, as improper tire pressure significantly affects vehicle handling and stability, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, driving with low tire pressure can cause uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also raises the likelihood of a blowout while on the road. Furthermore, maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for optimal fuel efficiency; neglecting this can lead to increased fuel consumption, costing you more in the long run. Lastly, a persistent warning light may indicate a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which requires immediate attention to ensure the system functions correctly. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly check and adjust your tire pressure to safeguard your vehicle's performance and your safety.

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