2015 Toyota Prius C Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Resolve the persistent TPMS warning light in your 2015 Toyota Prius C.

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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 2015 Toyota Prius C 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 2015 Toyota Prius C 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 in my 2015 Toyota Prius C?

To effectively diagnose why the tire pressure light won't turn off in your 2015 Toyota Prius C, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels specified on the tire information placard or in the owner's manual. Temperature fluctuations can impact tire pressure, so make adjustments as necessary. Next, use a tire pressure gauge to confirm that each tire's pressure is within the acceptable range, as a solid warning light typically indicates a discrepancy of about 10% or more. 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, which includes locating the TPMS reset button and holding it until the warning light blinks. If the light continues to blink or remains illuminated, this may suggest a malfunctioning sensor, which can be diagnosed with a tool available at tire shops. In cases where the light persists despite correct tire pressures and a reset, it may indicate a deeper issue within the TPMS system itself, warranting a visit to a mechanic or Toyota dealership for further investigation. Additionally, if you've recently installed aftermarket wheels or tires, ensure they are compatible with the TPMS, as this can also lead to warning light issues. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure light problem in your Prius C.

What could cause the tire pressure light to remain on in a 2015 Toyota Prius C?

When the tire pressure light stays on in your 2015 Toyota Prius C, it can be frustrating, especially if you've already checked the tire pressures. One common issue is incorrect tire pressure; even slight deviations from the recommended levels can trigger the light. Always refer to the sticker inside the driver's side door for the correct pressures. Another possibility is a malfunctioning Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor, which may occur if the sensor's battery has died, typically after about eight years of use. If the light blinks and then remains steady, this could indicate a sensor issue rather than low pressure. Additionally, after adjusting tire pressures, the TPMS may require a reset. This can be done by turning the ignition to "ON," pressing the TPMS reset button, and allowing the system to recalibrate. Cold weather can also affect tire pressure, so it's essential to check and adjust your tires accordingly during temperature fluctuations. Lastly, if you've recently installed a new TPMS sensor, ensure it has been properly reprogrammed, as failure to do so can keep the light on. By understanding these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue with your tire pressure light.

What should I do if the tire pressure light won't go off in my 2015 Toyota Prius C?

When the tire pressure light in your 2015 Toyota Prius C 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 costly repairs or even accidents. Start by checking the tire pressure in all tires, including the spare, to ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressure is correct but the light persists, resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can often resolve the issue. This involves locating the TPMS reset button and following the proper procedure to recalibrate the sensors. If the light still doesn’t turn off, consider deflating and reinflating the tires, as this can help reactivate the sensors. Additionally, inspect the tires for any leaks or damage, as these can also trigger the warning light. Remember that temperature fluctuations can affect tire pressure, so regular checks are essential, especially in colder months. If you’ve tried these steps and the light remains on, it may indicate a deeper issue, such as a failing TPMS sensor, which could require professional assistance. Addressing these symptoms promptly not only ensures your safety but also helps maintain the longevity of your vehicle.

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Why Is the Tire Pressure Light On in My 2015 Prius C?