2016 Toyota Highlander Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Resolve the persistent TPMS light in your 2016 Toyota Highlander.

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 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 2016 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 go off in my 2016 Toyota Highlander?

To effectively diagnose why the tire pressure light won't turn off in your 2016 Toyota Highlander, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels indicated on the B-pillar or driver’s doorjamb. Use a tire pressure gauge for accuracy, as even minor discrepancies can trigger the warning light. If the pressures are correct, attempt to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by following the specific reset procedure for your vehicle. If the light persists, investigate potential sensor issues, as a damaged or malfunctioning TPMS sensor could be the culprit. Additionally, consider any recent tire changes or repairs that may require re-initialization of the TPMS. Lastly, keep in mind that seasonal temperature fluctuations can affect tire pressure, so adjusting for these changes may also resolve the issue. If all else fails, consulting a professional mechanic or a Toyota dealership is advisable for a thorough diagnosis.

What could be causing the tire pressure light to remain on in a 2016 Toyota Highlander?

When the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light stays on in your 2016 Toyota Highlander, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the primary culprits is incorrect tire pressure; underinflated tires are often the reason for the warning light. Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure to the recommended levels can resolve this issue. Additionally, sensor malfunctions can occur, particularly if the sensors have dead batteries or are not transmitting correctly. In such cases, using a TPMS tool to diagnose the sensors may be necessary. If you've recently adjusted tire pressures or replaced tires, remember that the TPMS system may require reinitialization. This process involves using the TPMS reset button after ensuring all tires are properly inflated. Furthermore, using tires that differ in size or type from the manufacturer's specifications can trigger the light, so always verify that your tires match the recommended dimensions. Lastly, don’t overlook the spare tire; it should also be checked for proper inflation. If you've addressed these common issues and the light persists, it may indicate a more complex system failure, which could require professional assistance. By systematically checking these factors, you can often resolve the TPMS warning light issue on your own.

What should I do if the tire pressure light won't go off in my 2016 Toyota Highlander?

If the tire pressure light in your 2016 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 other serious accidents. Start by checking the tire pressures to ensure they are at the recommended levels, as improper inflation can trigger the TPMS light. If the pressures are correct, proceed to reset the TPMS system, as this can often resolve minor glitches. However, if the light persists, it may indicate a malfunctioning sensor or other underlying issues that could compromise your vehicle's safety. In such cases, consulting a mechanic is advisable, as they can diagnose and rectify any problems effectively. Remember, timely action not only enhances your safety on the road but also helps prevent costly repairs down the line.

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