2018 Toyota Prius Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Toyota Prius

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2018 Toyota Prius 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 2018 Toyota Prius 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 on my 2018 Toyota Prius?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2018 Toyota Prius, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin 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 owner's manual. This initial step can often resolve the issue if the light was triggered by low pressure. Next, conduct a thorough inspection of each tire for visible damage, such as punctures or foreign objects lodged in the tread, as these can also cause the warning light to activate. If the tires are in good condition and properly inflated, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as temporary fluctuations can sometimes trigger the warning light unnecessarily. After making any adjustments, take your Prius for a short drive to allow the system to recalibrate; this can often turn off the warning light if the issue was minor. However, if the light remains illuminated despite these efforts, it may indicate a more serious problem with the tire pressure monitoring system itself, and consulting a mechanic or dealership for further diagnosis would be the next prudent step. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Toyota Prius?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 Toyota Prius, it can be a source of concern for drivers. Understanding the common problems associated with this issue is essential for effective troubleshooting. The most prevalent cause is low tire pressure, which can be easily remedied by checking and inflating the tires to the recommended levels. If the tire pressure is adequate, the problem may stem from a faulty tire pressure sensor that might need replacement. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring a recalibration to ensure accurate readings. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, often necessitating a professional diagnostic to identify the underlying issue. Lastly, external factors such as debris or obstructions around the sensors can interfere with their operation, so it’s advisable to inspect the area for any blockages. By addressing these common problems, you can effectively resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your Prius and ensure safe driving conditions.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Toyota Prius?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Toyota Prius is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety issue that demands immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This lack of proper tire pressure can lead to dangerous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this warning can result in uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but can also lead to costly replacements. Additionally, underinflated tires can significantly reduce your vehicle's fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Therefore, it is essential to regularly check and adjust your tire pressure to ensure optimal performance and safety. Ignoring the tire pressure warning light can have serious consequences, making it imperative to take action as soon as the light comes on.

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