2008 Scion XB Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2008 Scion xB and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
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 2008 Scion xB 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 2008 Scion xB 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 persistent tire pressure warning light on a 2008 Scion xB?

To effectively diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2008 Scion xB, start with the simplest and most common issues. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as low pressure is often the primary culprit behind the warning light. 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 that might be causing air loss. To confirm your findings, use a reliable tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure accurately. If you have made any adjustments or repairs, remember that some vehicles require a manual reset of the tire pressure monitoring system, so consult your vehicle's manual for the specific reset procedure. By following these steps, you can systematically address the issue and potentially resolve the warning light without needing professional help.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2008 Scion xB?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2008 Scion xB, 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 using a tire pressure gauge. Make sure to inflate all tires to the recommended levels specified in your owner’s manual. If the tire pressure is adequate, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor; if it’s malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring you to recalibrate the sensors to ensure they provide accurate readings. Electrical problems within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can also cause the warning light to remain illuminated, so it’s wise to inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage. Finally, if everything else checks out, a faulty TPMS control module could be the culprit, which typically necessitates professional diagnosis and replacement. By methodically addressing these potential issues, you can resolve the tire pressure warning light problem and ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2008 Scion xB?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2008 Scion xB is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked by DIY car owners. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety concerns, including reduced traction and an increased risk of tire blowouts, particularly in challenging driving conditions. Additionally, driving on underinflated tires can cause uneven wear, resulting in premature tire failure and the need for costly replacements. Furthermore, maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for optimal fuel efficiency; neglecting this can lead to decreased gas mileage, which adds unnecessary expenses over time. Lastly, incorrect tire pressure can significantly impact the vehicle's handling and performance, affecting braking and steering capabilities. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to promptly check and adjust tire pressure to ensure safety, enhance vehicle performance, and avoid potential damage.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.