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

Resolve Persistent TPMS Warning Light in 2012 Toyota Corolla

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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 2012 Toyota Corolla 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 Corolla 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 the tire pressure light issue in my 2012 Toyota Corolla?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure light issue in your 2012 Toyota Corolla, start with the simplest solution: checking the tire pressure. Ensure that all tires are inflated to the recommended levels, which can be found on the tire information placard located on the driver's side doorjamb or in your owner's manual. If the tire pressures are correct, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by turning the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine, locating the TPMS reset button, and holding it until the light blinks three times. After resetting, run the engine for at least 20 minutes or drive at speeds over 20 mph to allow the system to reinitialize. If the light remains on or starts blinking, it may indicate a malfunction within the TPMS itself, often related to sensor issues or battery life. To pinpoint the faulty sensor, consider using a TPMS relearn tool or taking your vehicle to a professional for a thorough diagnosis. If a sensor is confirmed to be defective, replace it with a compatible part and ensure it is properly reprogrammed. For persistent issues, utilizing a scan tool to check for trouble codes can provide deeper insights into the problem, guiding you toward a resolution. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure light issue and restore your vehicle's safety features.

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

When the tire pressure light remains on in your 2012 Toyota Corolla, it can be frustrating, especially if you've already checked the tire pressures. One common issue is incorrect tire pressure; even a slight deviation from the recommended levels can trigger the light. It's essential to verify that your tire pressures match the specifications found on the tire placard. Another potential cause is a malfunction within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) itself, which may indicate a faulty sensor or a problem with the TPMS module. If the light blinks before staying solid, this could be a sign of such a malfunction. Additionally, the TPMS sensors, which are battery-powered, can fail over time, particularly if they are nearing the end of their lifespan, typically around ten years. If the reset procedure was not completed correctly, the light may also remain on; ensure you follow the steps precisely to reset the system. Lastly, if you've recently rotated or replaced your tires without initializing the TPMS, the system may not function properly until it receives signals from all sensors, which usually requires driving the vehicle for a short period. By understanding these common problems, you can take the necessary steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue yourself.

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

When the tire pressure light on your 2012 Toyota Corolla remains illuminated, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, including reduced traction, increased tire wear, and even blowouts, which pose significant safety risks. Start by checking the tire pressure of all tires, including the spare, to ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressures are correct, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by following the specific steps outlined in your owner’s manual. If the light persists after resetting, it may indicate a deeper issue, such as a malfunctioning sensor or a problem with the spare tire. Taking immediate action not only enhances your safety on the road but also prevents potential damage to your vehicle, making it essential to resolve tire pressure light issues as soon as they arise. If you’re unsure or the problem continues, seeking assistance from a professional tire shop can provide peace of mind and ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.

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