2012 Toyota Avalon Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Addressing the Persistent TPMS Light in the 2012 Toyota Avalon

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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 2012 Toyota Avalon 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 2012 Toyota Avalon 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 and resolve the tire pressure light issue on my 2012 Toyota Avalon?

To effectively diagnose and resolve the tire pressure light issue on your 2012 Toyota Avalon, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressures of all tires, including the spare, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels found on the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual. A small discrepancy in pressure can easily trigger the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light. Next, inspect the spare tire, as it is often overlooked; it should also be at the correct pressure, which may differ from the other tires. If the pressures are correct, proceed to reset the TPMS system by locating the reset button, typically found under the dash or behind the glove compartment. Turn the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine, then press and hold the reset button until the light blinks three times. If the light remains on, it may indicate a sensor issue, which could stem from low or dead batteries in the sensors. Use an OBD2 scanner or TPMS tool to check for any system failures. If you suspect a faulty sensor, remove one tire at a time to identify the problematic sensor. If necessary, replace any faulty sensors with either OEM or aftermarket options, which can be more cost-effective. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure light issue and ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.

What could be causing the tire pressure light to stay on in a 2012 Toyota Avalon?

When the tire pressure light remains illuminated in your 2012 Toyota Avalon, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which can occur in any of the tires, including the spare. It's essential to check that all tires are inflated to the recommended levels, typically found on the sticker inside the driver's door or in the owner's manual. Additionally, sensor issues may arise, such as dead batteries in the tire pressure monitoring sensors (TPMS) or damage incurred during tire installation, which can prevent the system from functioning correctly. If the TPMS system itself is failing, indicated by a blinking light followed by a solid light, it may require professional diagnosis. Another common issue is an incorrect reset of the TPMS after adjusting tire pressures or changing tires; following the reset procedure in the owner's manual is crucial. Lastly, don’t overlook the spare tire, as it can also trigger the light if not properly inflated. Cold weather can exacerbate these issues, making the system more sensitive to minor pressure changes. By systematically checking tire pressures, resetting the TPMS, and inspecting the sensors, you can often resolve the issue without needing professional assistance.

What should I do if the tire pressure light on my 2012 Toyota Avalon won't turn off?

If the tire pressure light on your 2012 Toyota Avalon remains illuminated, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, including reduced traction and increased tire wear, which may ultimately result in a blowout. Start by checking the tire pressures of all tires, including the spare, to ensure they meet the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the pressures are correct, attempt to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by following the specific steps outlined in your owner's manual. Should the light persist, it may indicate a malfunctioning sensor, which could be due to low battery levels or damage. In such cases, troubleshooting by removing tires one at a time can help pinpoint the faulty sensor. Additionally, be aware that cold weather can affect tire pressure readings, so adjustments may be necessary during winter months. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a mechanic is advisable, as neglecting the problem could lead to more significant safety risks and costly repairs.

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Diagnosing the Tire Pressure Light on a 2012 Toyota Avalon