2018 Toyota Tacoma Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 Toyota Tacoma: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2018 Toyota Tacoma, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions. Start by checking the tire pressure of all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they meet the recommended levels outlined in your owner's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the tires are simply under-inflated. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system as per the instructions in your manual; this can help eliminate false alerts. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of leaks or damage, as these can also contribute to pressure issues. If, after these checks, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis of the tire pressure monitoring system. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light and maintain your vehicle's safety and performance.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2018 Toyota Tacoma?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2018 Toyota Tacoma, it can indicate several common issues that DIY enthusiasts can address. The primary reason is often low tire pressure, which can be easily checked using a tire pressure gauge. Ensuring that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels is a simple yet effective solution. If the tire pressure is adequate, the next step is to inspect the tire pressure sensor for any signs of damage or malfunction, as a faulty sensor can also trigger the warning light. In some cases, the sensor's battery may have depleted, preventing it from communicating properly with the vehicle's system. If the sensor appears to be in good condition but the light remains on, checking the sensor batteries is advisable. Additionally, wiring issues or malfunctions within the tire pressure monitoring system can cause persistent alerts, necessitating a more thorough diagnosis and potential repairs. Lastly, be mindful of environmental factors, such as extreme temperatures, which can affect tire pressure; ensuring your tires are properly inflated for current conditions can help prevent false warnings. By methodically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your Tacoma, ensuring both safety and performance.

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

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Toyota Tacoma is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires 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 can lead to dangerous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, driving on low tire pressure can cause uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also negatively impacts fuel efficiency, costing you more at the pump. Ignoring this warning could result in tire damage or even a flat tire, potentially leaving you stranded or causing a hazardous situation on the road. Therefore, it is essential to check your tire pressure regularly, inflate your tires to the recommended levels, and inspect for any punctures or leaks. By taking these proactive steps, you ensure not only your safety but also the optimal performance of your vehicle.

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