2003 Subaru Forester Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2003 Subaru Forester and How to Resolve It

Find Repair Location

Reviewed by

Devin Cabugcal

Written by RepairPal Car Genius

Updated January 14, 2025

40% chance it's the

Tire Leaking Air

30% chance it's the

Wheel Leaking Air

15% chance it's the

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

15% chance it's

Something else

The most common reasons a 2003 Subaru Forester 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 tire 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.

What are the best Subaru repair shops?

RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2003 Subaru Forester electronics and electrical issues. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.

How much does it cost to fix a 2003 Subaru Forester 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.

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.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2003 Subaru Forester?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2003 Subaru Forester, it is crucial to take immediate action. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety hazards, including decreased vehicle handling and an increased risk of tire blowouts, which can result in accidents. Low tire pressure not only affects your driving experience but can also diminish fuel efficiency, costing you more at the pump. Furthermore, if the tire pressure monitoring system is malfunctioning, it may not alert you to sudden drops in tire pressure, leaving you vulnerable on the road. Prolonged driving with under-inflated tires can also cause significant damage to your vehicle's drivetrain, especially if the tires are mismatched. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the cause of the warning light promptly, whether it be a leaking tire, a faulty monitoring system, or another issue, to ensure your safety and maintain the optimal performance of your Subaru Forester.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2003 Subaru Forester?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2003 Subaru Forester, it often indicates underlying issues that require attention. The most prevalent cause is low tire pressure, which can occur due to natural air loss or a slow leak from a puncture. It's essential to regularly check tire pressure, especially with seasonal temperature changes that can cause fluctuations. If the pressure is adequate but the light persists, the problem may lie within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This could involve malfunctioning sensors, which may be due to depleted batteries or physical damage. Additionally, the TPMS receiver module could be faulty, necessitating further investigation. If you've recently inflated your tires and the warning light remains on, a reset of the TPMS may be required. In some cases, tire damage or punctures that are not immediately visible can also lead to pressure loss, so a thorough inspection of the tires is advisable. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the reasons behind the tire pressure warning light in their Subaru Forester.

Related 2003 Subaru Forester Problems

Read about related problems experienced by other Subaru Forester drivers like you.

Subaru Forester air conditioning issue after condenser replacement

Some Subaru Forester owners report experiencing air conditioning issues after a condenser replacement, particularly with the compressor clutch appearing to remain engaged continuously, which may be normal for post-2019 models. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of verifying correct refrigerant levels, as high side pressure of 200 PSI and low side pressure of 40 PSI indicate a functioning system. Common causes of AC problems noted by owners include low or overcharged refrigerant, compressor malfunctions, clogged cabin air filters, and dirty condenser or evaporator coils. Electrical issues, such as switch failures, blown fuses, or harness damage at the AC compressor, can also disrupt functionality. Furthermore, a dirty pollen filter may reduce cooling efficiency and strain the AC system, highlighting the necessity of regular cabin filter changes for optimal performance. To resolve these issues, it is recommended that owners check these components to ensure the AC system operates correctly.

2 model years affected

Avg Mileage: 119,000

3 others reported problem

1 comment

Subaru Forester ignition cylinder issue preventing key extraction, likely requiring part replacement

Some Subaru Forester owners report experiencing issues with the ignition cylinder, such as difficulty in inserting or removing the key and struggles to turn it, which may indicate damage requiring part replacement. Many owners caution against applying undue pressure to extract a stuck key, as this could lead to the key breaking inside the ignition. In cases where the key is stuck due to mechanical issues, some find that jiggling the key can help free it. Additionally, when the key won't turn, it is advisable to check the battery voltage and adjust the steering wheel and gear shift while gently turning the key. Specific problems like mechanical parts locking or electrical malfunctions can also contribute to a stuck key. Furthermore, wear and tear on the ignition cylinder or faulty wiring can prevent the key from turning properly. For accurate diagnosis and potential part replacement, seeking the assistance of a professional mechanic is recommended.

1 model year affected

Avg Mileage: 146,500

2 others reported problem

1 comment

See More 2003 Subaru Forester Problems

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.

Find a Certified ShopThe largest certified network of auto repair shops

Get a Fair Price EstimateHundreds of repair estimates honored nationwide

Check for Safety RecallsUse VIN or license plate to see if your vehicle is affected

Exceptional warranty

Shops offer at least a 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty.

Satisfied customers

We ensure high satisfaction through verified customer reviews.

Transparent pricing

You'll get a Fair Price Guarantee on all RepairPal estimates.

Millions trust us for auto repair — RepairPal Certified^® locations must pass a rigorous approval process to ensure quality, customer satisfaction, and fair pricing.

Find a Repair Location