2021 Toyota Tacoma Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2021 Toyota Tacoma: Causes and Solutions

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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 2021 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 2021 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 2021 Toyota Tacoma?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2021 Toyota Tacoma, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure of 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 was simply low. 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, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as temporary fluctuations can sometimes trigger the warning light. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of leaks or damage, as faulty stems can also lead 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 inspection of the tire pressure monitoring system. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light on your Tacoma.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2021 Toyota Tacoma?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in your 2021 Toyota Tacoma, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which can occur due to natural air loss or temperature fluctuations. Regularly checking and inflating your tires to the recommended pressure is essential for both safety and performance. If the pressure is adequate, the problem may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could require replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, sensor malfunctions due to electrical issues or wiring problems can also trigger the warning light, necessitating a diagnostic test to pinpoint the fault. Extreme temperature changes can further complicate matters, as they can cause tire pressure to fluctuate, so adjusting your tire pressure accordingly is crucial. Inspecting your tires for leaks or damage is another vital step, as any punctures or cuts can lead to air loss and illuminate the warning light. Lastly, if all else seems normal, consider recalibrating the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to ensure it functions correctly. By addressing these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and maintain safe driving conditions.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2021 Toyota Tacoma?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 2021 Toyota Tacoma is of utmost importance due to the immediate safety risks it poses. Low tire pressure can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly in critical driving situations. Furthermore, neglecting this warning can lead to uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also raises the risk of a blowout while on the road. Additionally, underinflated tires can significantly decrease your vehicle's fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. It's also crucial to consider that the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) may be malfunctioning if the warning light persists, which could prevent you from receiving alerts about other potential tire issues. Therefore, it is essential to check and adjust your tire pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications or consult a professional mechanic to ensure your vehicle remains safe and efficient. Ignoring this warning light can lead to serious safety hazards and costly repairs, making prompt action not just advisable, but necessary.

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