2013 Scion TC Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2013 Scion tC and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2013 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 2013 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 2013 Scion tC?

When faced with a tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2013 Scion tC, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare, ensuring they align with the manufacturer's recommended levels found on the door jamb or in the owner's manual. This simple step can often resolve the issue if the pressure is low. Next, inspect each tire for visible damage such as punctures or bulges, as these can lead to air loss and trigger the warning light. If the tire pressure is adequate and the tires appear undamaged, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as outlined in your vehicle's manual, which may clear the warning light. Should the light persist, it could indicate a malfunctioning sensor, necessitating further investigation or replacement by a professional. If these initial steps do not yield results, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable, as they possess the expertise and tools to diagnose more complex issues effectively. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your Scion tC.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2013 Scion tC?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2013 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 manufacturer's specifications. If the tire pressure is correct, the next step is to examine the tire pressure sensors, as a malfunctioning sensor may need to be replaced to restore proper operation. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring a recalibration process to ensure the sensors are accurately reading the tire pressure levels. It's also important to check for any electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system, as wiring problems can lead to persistent warning lights. Lastly, if you've recently replaced the vehicle's battery, this may trigger the warning light, necessitating a system reset or sensor relearning. By methodically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively resolve the tire pressure warning light problem in your Scion tC.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on my 2013 Scion tC?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2013 Scion tC is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including compromised handling and braking, which can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Additionally, driving with incorrect tire pressure can result in decreased fuel efficiency, costing you more at the pump, and can accelerate tire wear, leading to premature replacements. Most alarmingly, underinflated tires are prone to blowouts, especially at high speeds, posing a severe danger to you and other road users. Therefore, it is essential to check and adjust your tire pressure as soon as the warning light illuminates, ensuring both your safety and the optimal performance of your vehicle.

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