2011 Scion TC Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2011 Scion tC and How to Resolve It

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2011 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 2011 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 of a TPMS control module failure are failing to alert the driver of underinflation or overinflation of one or more tires, failure to communicate with the body control module or TPMS sensors, or erroneously reporting incorrect tire pressure.

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 are the initial steps to diagnose a tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2011 Scion tC?

To effectively diagnose a tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2011 Scion tC, begin with the most straightforward step: checking the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended PSI levels, as improper inflation is a common cause of warning lights. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could lead to air loss. If the tires appear to be in good condition, attempt to reset the tire pressure monitoring system, as this can sometimes clear false alerts. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any leaks or damage, as faulty stems can also trigger the warning light. If the light persists after these checks, consider using a diagnostic tool to scan for fault codes related to the tire pressure monitoring system, which can provide deeper insights into the issue. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light in your vehicle.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2011 Scion tC?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2011 Scion tC, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. The most prevalent issue is low tire pressure, which can be easily checked and adjusted to meet the recommended levels. If the tire pressure is adequate, the next step is to consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor that may need replacement. Additionally, sensor calibration can sometimes be off, requiring a recalibration to ensure accurate readings. It's also wise to inspect the tire pressure monitoring system for any electrical faults, as wiring issues can trigger the warning light. Lastly, if the vehicle's battery has been recently replaced or disconnected, the system may need to be reset to turn off the warning light. By addressing these potential causes, you can resolve the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your Scion tC is safe and road-ready.

What immediate steps should be taken if the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 2011 Scion tC?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2011 Scion tC, it is crucial to act swiftly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to dangerous driving conditions, including reduced traction and increased risk of tire blowouts, which can result in serious accidents. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires with a reliable gauge, ensuring they meet the manufacturer's specifications. If you find any tires underinflated, inflate them immediately to the recommended levels; this simple action can often reset the tire pressure monitoring system and turn off the warning light. Additionally, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, as these issues can compromise your safety on the road. If the warning light persists after adjusting the tire pressure, consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset the system, as some vehicles require this step. However, if the light remains on despite your efforts, it may indicate a more serious problem with the tire pressure monitoring system or the tires themselves, necessitating professional assistance. By taking these immediate steps, you not only address the warning light but also safeguard your driving experience and prevent potential hazards.

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2011 Scion tC Tire Pressure Warning Light | RepairPal