2016 Subaru Legacy Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2016 Subaru Legacy 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 Subaru Legacy 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.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Subaru Legacy 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 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.

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 2016 Subaru Legacy?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in a 2016 Subaru Legacy is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that should be prioritized. When this warning light remains illuminated, it can signify various underlying issues, such as a tire losing air or a malfunction within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Ignoring this warning can lead to dangerously low tire pressure, which increases the risk of tire overheating and potential blowouts, jeopardizing both your safety and that of others on the road. Additionally, driving with improperly inflated tires can adversely affect fuel efficiency and tire lifespan, leading to costly replacements. If the light persists even after checking and adjusting tire pressures, it is essential to seek professional assistance to reset the TPMS or diagnose any system malfunctions. By addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly, you not only ensure a safer driving experience but also protect your vehicle from unnecessary wear and tear.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2016 Subaru Legacy?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2016 Subaru Legacy, it often indicates underlying issues that require attention. One of the most frequent culprits is incorrect tire pressure, which can be either too low or too high in one or more tires. To resolve this, it's essential to use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire and inflate or deflate them to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the tire pressure is correct and the warning light persists, the problem may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor or a malfunctioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). In such cases, resetting the TPMS can sometimes clear the warning light, but the process may vary by model. Therefore, consulting the vehicle's manual for specific reset instructions is advisable. By systematically checking tire pressure and addressing sensor issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the warning light concern.

What steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on my 2016 Subaru Legacy?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2016 Subaru Legacy, start with the simplest solution: checking the tire pressure. Ensure that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as both over-inflation and under-inflation can trigger the warning light. Next, inspect the tires and wheels for any visible leaks, as a loss of pressure due to leaks can also activate the warning. If the tire pressure is correct and there are no leaks, the next step is to verify the functionality of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors, as faulty sensors can cause the light to remain illuminated. If everything appears to be in order but the light persists, consider resetting the TPMS, which can often resolve minor glitches. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions related to your vehicle. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic or a Subaru dealership for a more thorough inspection. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

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