2016 Scion TC Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on my 2016 Scion tC?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2016 Scion tC, begin with a thorough check of the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels outlined in your owner's manual, as improper inflation is a common cause of warning lights. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system by following the specific instructions in your manual; this can often recalibrate the sensors and resolve minor issues. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of damage or leaks, as faulty valve stems can trigger the warning light. If, after completing these steps, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic or dealership for a professional diagnosis, as they have the tools and expertise to identify more complex issues. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure warning light and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2016 Scion tC?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2016 Scion tC, it can signal several common issues that DIY enthusiasts 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 pressure is within the recommended range, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need replacement if it’s not functioning correctly. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring a recalibration to ensure accurate pressure readings. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, and diagnosing these may involve more advanced troubleshooting techniques. Lastly, performing a system reset as outlined in the vehicle's manual can sometimes resolve the issue. Addressing these potential problems promptly is essential for ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle, and while many of these tasks can be handled at home, consulting a professional mechanic may be necessary for more complex repairs.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on my 2016 Scion tC?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2016 Scion tC is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety risks, as improper tire pressure significantly affects your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, driving with underinflated tires can result in uneven wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and a compromised driving experience. The longer you wait to address the issue, the greater the risk of damaging your tires, which could lead to costly repairs or even blowouts. Furthermore, the tire pressure monitoring system is designed to alert you to potential problems; neglecting this warning may indicate a malfunction that needs immediate attention. Therefore, it is essential to check your tire pressure regularly, inflate your tires to the recommended levels, and resolve any underlying issues to ensure your safety and maintain optimal vehicle performance.

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