2013 Toyota Highlander Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2013 Toyota Highlander: Causes and Solutions

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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 2013 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 2013 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 the tire pressure warning light issue in my 2013 Toyota Highlander?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2013 Toyota Highlander, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your vehicle's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the pressure is low. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a leak or other issues. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as temporary glitches can sometimes trigger the warning light. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of damage or leaks that might be causing the alert. If, after these checks, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a professional diagnosis, ensuring that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the problem and maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2013 Toyota Highlander?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2013 Toyota Highlander, it can indicate several common issues that are manageable for a DIY enthusiast. The first step is to check the tire pressure in all four tires, as low pressure is the most frequent cause of the warning light. If the tires are properly inflated, the next potential issue could be a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, consider the possibility of depleted batteries in the tire pressure sensors; replacing these batteries is a straightforward task that can often resolve the warning light issue. It's also wise to inspect the wiring and connections related to the tire pressure monitoring system, as any damage or loose connections can trigger the light to remain on. If all these components are functioning correctly, recalibrating the tire pressure monitoring system might be necessary to ensure it operates accurately. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the tire pressure warning light concern in your Highlander, ensuring a safer driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in a 2013 Toyota Highlander is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, safety is at stake; driving with low tire pressure can severely compromise vehicle handling and stability, particularly in emergency situations or challenging weather conditions. This can lead to increased stopping distances and a higher risk of tire blowouts, which can have dire consequences on the road. Additionally, maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for optimal vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires not only decrease fuel economy but also accelerate tire wear, leading to costly replacements. Furthermore, a persistent warning light may signal underlying mechanical issues with the tire pressure monitoring system or the tires themselves, necessitating immediate attention to avoid further complications. Therefore, it is imperative to take action as soon as the tire pressure warning light activates to ensure safety, enhance vehicle performance, and prevent potential damage.

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