Ram Dakota Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Ram Dakota and How to Resolve It

Find Repair Location
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 Ram Dakota 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 Ram Dakota 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Ram Dakota

When faced with a tire pressure warning light in your Ram Dakota, begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels indicated on the tire placard located on the door panel. If the pressure is low, inflate the tires accordingly, as this is often the simplest fix. If the light remains illuminated after adjusting the pressure, inspect the tires for any visible signs of damage or leaks, as a puncture or a slow leak can trigger the warning. Additionally, consider the age and condition of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors; a depleted battery in a sensor can also cause the light to stay on. If you’ve recently had new tires or wheels installed, ensure that the TPMS has been properly reset, as this can sometimes be overlooked during installation. To reset the TPMS light, locate the reset button beneath the steering wheel, hold it until the light blinks three times, and then start the vehicle, allowing about 20 minutes for the system to refresh. If the warning light persists despite these checks, it may indicate a malfunctioning TPMS receiver module or damaged sensors, which would require further diagnostic testing or professional assistance. By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and ensure your Ram Dakota is safe and road-ready.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Ram Dakota

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in your Ram Dakota, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be causing the alert. One of the most frequent culprits is low air pressure in one or more tires, which can occur due to natural air loss or punctures. Additionally, a depleted battery in a tire pressure sensor can lead to inaccurate readings, causing the warning light to illuminate. If you've recently installed new tires or wheels, the TPMS may need recalibration, as these changes can affect the system's ability to monitor tire pressure accurately. Furthermore, prolonged periods of inactivity can result in deflated tires, triggering the warning light. If you suspect a malfunctioning TPMS receiver module or a damaged pressure sensor, these components may require inspection or replacement. To address the warning light, start by checking and adjusting the tire pressures according to the manufacturer's specifications found on the tire placard. If the light persists, consider resetting the TPMS by locating the reset button, typically found beneath the steering wheel, and following the reset procedure. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and ensure your Ram Dakota remains safe and roadworthy.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Ram Dakota?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your Ram Dakota, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased handling and stability, increasing the likelihood of tire blowouts or accidents. Common causes for the light staying on include leaking tires, which can compromise your vehicle's performance, or a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which may fail to provide accurate readings. If you've already inflated your tires to the recommended levels and the light persists, it may indicate a deeper issue with the TPMS that requires professional attention. Regularly checking your tire pressure and inspecting for leaks can help maintain optimal performance and safety, making it essential to take these warnings seriously and act swiftly to resolve any underlying problems.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.