2010 Smart Fortwo Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2010 Smart Fortwo 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 2010 Smart Fortwo 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 Smart Fortwo 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 2010 Smart Fortwo?

To effectively diagnose a tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2010 Smart Fortwo, start by checking the tire pressure of all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. Low tire pressure is a frequent culprit for this warning light. Next, inspect each tire for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could lead to air loss. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system as outlined in your vehicle's manual; this can often clear false warnings. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of leaks or damage that might be causing air to escape. If the warning light persists after these checks, it may indicate a malfunction in one of the tire pressure sensors, which would require a professional diagnostic tool for further investigation. By following these steps, you can systematically address the issue and potentially resolve the warning light without needing professional assistance.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2010 Smart Fortwo?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2010 Smart Fortwo, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. The most common issue is low tire pressure, so the first step is to check each tire and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the next possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need to be replaced. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring a recalibration to ensure accurate readings. It's also wise to inspect the electrical connections within the tire pressure monitoring system for any faults or damage, as these can lead to persistent warning lights. Lastly, if the vehicle's battery has been recently replaced, it might have reset the system, potentially resolving the issue. Addressing these factors is essential for ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle, and if the warning light remains illuminated after these checks, consulting a professional mechanic may be the best course of action.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light on my 2010 Smart Fortwo stays on?

When the tire pressure warning light on your 2010 Smart Fortwo remains illuminated, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased vehicle performance, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose serious risks while driving. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels specified in your vehicle's manual. If you find any tires underinflated, inflate them accordingly, as proper tire pressure is essential for safe handling and fuel efficiency. Additionally, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or cuts, which could compromise their integrity. If you have adjusted the tire pressure but the warning light persists, consult your vehicle's manual for instructions on resetting the tire pressure monitoring system. Should the light remain on after these steps, it is advisable to seek professional assistance, as there may be an underlying issue with the monitoring system that requires expert attention. By addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly, you can ensure your safety on the road and maintain the longevity of your vehicle.

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2010 Smart Fortwo Tire Pressure Warning Light Guide