2010 Scion TC Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2010 Scion tC

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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 2010 Scion tC 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 2010 Scion tC 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 2010 Scion tC?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2010 Scion tC, begin with a thorough assessment of your tires. 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 driver's side door jamb sticker. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a leak. Don’t overlook the valve stems; check them for any cracks or leaks, as faulty valve stems can also lead to pressure loss. Additionally, look for any foreign objects like nails or screws embedded in the tires that might be causing a slow leak. If the tire pressure is correct and there are no visible issues, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system as outlined in your owner's manual. If the warning light persists despite these checks, it may be time to consult a mechanic or tire professional for a more comprehensive diagnosis. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the underlying cause of the tire pressure warning light in your vehicle.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2010 Scion tC?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2010 Scion tC, it can indicate several common issues that DIYers can troubleshoot. The first step is to check the tire pressure in all four tires, as low pressure is the most frequent cause of the warning light. If the tires are properly inflated, the next area to investigate is the tire pressure sensors; a faulty sensor may need to be replaced, or the sensors might require recalibration to ensure they are functioning correctly. Additionally, electrical problems such as damaged wiring or blown fuses can also lead to the warning light remaining illuminated, so a thorough inspection of the vehicle's electrical system is essential. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may indicate a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself, which could necessitate professional assistance for proper diagnosis and repair. By methodically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your Scion tC.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2010 Scion tC?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2010 Scion tC is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly in emergency situations where quick response is essential. Furthermore, driving on improperly inflated tires can lead to uneven wear, significantly shortening their lifespan and raising the risk of a blowout while on the road. Additionally, underinflated tires can negatively impact your fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. To ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle, it is crucial to check and adjust your tire pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications as soon as the warning light appears. Ignoring this warning not only poses immediate safety risks but can also result in costly repairs down the line.

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