Scion IM Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Scion iM and How to Resolve the Issue

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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 Scion iM 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 Scion iM 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 Scion iM

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in your Scion iM, start by checking for any visible tire leaks, as a drop in pressure can often be attributed to punctures or damage. Next, inspect the wheels for leaks that might not be immediately apparent. Once you've ruled out external issues, verify that the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is functioning correctly; this may involve checking the sensors for any signs of malfunction. If the tires are properly inflated and the system appears to be working, you can proceed to reset the tire pressure warning light. Begin by ensuring all tires are at the recommended pressure, then locate the reset button in the glovebox and press it. If the warning light remains illuminated, it may indicate that the sensors need replacement. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the type of TPMS your vehicle uses, as the reset procedure can vary. For a successful reset, turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine, press and hold the TPMS reset button until the light blinks three times, then turn off the vehicle. Remember to ensure the car is in the correct position for resetting, with the handbrake engaged and the vehicle not in gear. By following these steps methodically, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your Scion iM.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Scion iM

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in your Scion iM, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be causing the alert. One frequent issue is tire leaks, which can occur due to punctures or damage, leading to a loss of air pressure. Additionally, wheel leaks can also trigger the warning light, so inspecting the rims for any signs of air escaping is crucial. Another common problem is a malfunctioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); faulty sensors can mistakenly indicate low tire pressure even when the tires are adequately inflated. If you find that your tires are properly inflated but the warning light remains on, you may need to reset the TPMS. This process typically involves locating the reset button in the glovebox or following specific instructions in your owner's manual. If the light persists after resetting, it may indicate that the sensors require replacement. By systematically checking for these issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and ensure your Scion iM is safe and road-ready.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Scion iM?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your Scion iM, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to dangerous driving conditions, as low tire pressure can significantly increase the risk of tire blowouts and accidents. Additionally, a malfunctioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) may indicate underlying problems such as sensor failures or punctured tires, which can exacerbate tire wear and lead to costly repairs. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to inspect your tires for proper inflation, check for any visible damage, and consider resetting the TPMS if necessary. Taking these steps not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also safeguards your well-being and that of others on the road.

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