2011 Toyota Highlander Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Resolve the persistent TPMS warning light in your 2011 Toyota Highlander.

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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 2011 Toyota Highlander 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 2011 Toyota Highlander 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 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 why the tire pressure light won't turn off on my 2011 Toyota Highlander?

To effectively diagnose why the tire pressure light won't turn off on your 2011 Toyota Highlander, start by checking the tire pressures of all four tires, including the spare, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels specified in your owner's manual or on the tire information placard. Next, inspect the spare tire for a TPMS sensor, which is indicated by a metal valve stem, and confirm it is also properly inflated. If the pressures are correct, proceed to reset the TPMS system by locating the reset button, turning the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine, and following the reset procedure until the indicator light blinks and then goes off. After resetting, allow the system to relearn the tire pressures by running the engine for at least 20 minutes or driving at a speed of 25 mph for about 10 minutes. If the light remains on, investigate potential sensor issues, as the batteries in TPMS sensors typically last 7-10 years. Utilize a TPMS scan tool to check sensor responsiveness and retrieve any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may indicate specific malfunctions. Finally, conduct a visual inspection of all tires for any damage or leaks that could trigger the warning light. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue with your tire pressure light.

What could cause the tire pressure light to remain on in a 2011 Toyota Highlander?

When the tire pressure light remains on in your 2011 Toyota Highlander, it can be frustrating, especially after you've checked the tire pressures. One common issue is low tire pressure or slow leaks that may not be immediately visible. It's essential to inspect each tire thoroughly for any signs of air loss, as temperature fluctuations can also impact pressure levels. Additionally, consider the possibility of dead or failing TPMS sensors; these sensors typically have a lifespan of 7-10 years, and if they are not functioning, they may need to be replaced. Don't forget to check the spare tire, as some models include a TPMS sensor in it, which can trigger the warning light if the spare is underinflated. If you've recently adjusted the tire pressures, ensure that you follow the correct reset procedure for the TPMS system, as an improper reset can leave the light on. Lastly, if you suspect a malfunction within the TPMS system or have installed new sensors, make sure they are registered with the vehicle's ECU, as failure to do so can also cause the light to remain illuminated. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure light concern in your Highlander.

What should I do if the tire pressure light on my 2011 Toyota Highlander won't turn off?

If the tire pressure light on your 2011 Toyota Highlander remains illuminated, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, such as reduced traction and increased tire wear, which may ultimately result in a blowout or loss of control while driving. Start by checking the tire pressure of all tires, including the spare, to ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the spare tire has a sensor, a low pressure there can also trigger the warning light. After confirming proper inflation, consider resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to see if that resolves the issue. If the light persists, it may indicate a malfunctioning sensor, which could be due to dead batteries or other faults. Using a diagnostic tool can help identify the specific problem. Remember, timely action not only enhances your safety but also prevents further complications that could lead to costly repairs. If you’re unable to resolve the issue after these steps, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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