2012 Toyota Tundra Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Resolve the persistent TPMS light in your 2012 Toyota Tundra.

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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 2012 Toyota Tundra 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 2012 Toyota Tundra 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 of a TPMS control module failure are failing to alert the driver of underinflation or overinflation of one or more tires, failure to communicate with the body control module or TPMS sensors, or erroneously reporting incorrect tire pressure.

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 light issue on my 2012 Toyota Tundra?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure light issue on your 2012 Toyota Tundra, begin by checking the tire pressure in all tires, including the spare, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels indicated on the tire information placard. If the pressures are correct, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by turning the ignition to the ON position and locating the TPMS reset button, typically found under the steering column. Press and hold this button until the warning light blinks slowly three times, then drive the vehicle at a speed of 19 mph or faster for at least an hour to complete the relearn procedure. If the light remains illuminated, inspect the TPMS sensors for any damage or dead batteries, as replacing these components may resolve the issue. Should the problem persist, utilizing a TPMS diagnostic tool can help retrieve trouble codes from the vehicle's ECU, providing insight into specific sensor issues. If all else fails, consulting a professional mechanic or a Toyota dealership is advisable, especially if your vehicle is still under warranty, as they can access stored codes for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure light issue and potentially restore your Tundra's functionality.

What could cause the tire pressure light to remain on in a 2012 Toyota Tundra?

When the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light remains illuminated in your 2012 Toyota Tundra, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure; under-inflated tires can trigger the TPMS light, so it's essential to check that all tires, including the spare, are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If tire pressure is adequate, the issue may lie with the sensors themselves. Over time, these sensors can fail or their batteries can deplete, typically every 3-5 years, necessitating replacement. Additionally, if the TPMS light flashes briefly before staying on, it may indicate a system error that requires diagnostic tools to read stored codes, often accessible only through a dealership or specialized equipment. Another common issue is improper resetting of the TPMS after adjusting tire pressures; if the light continues to blink or remains on, it may suggest a deeper problem with the sensors or the reset procedure. External factors, such as electrical interference from devices in the vehicle, can also disrupt the TPMS signals. Lastly, prolonged highway driving can increase tire pressure due to heat, potentially triggering the light. By systematically checking tire pressures, attempting a reset, and inspecting the sensors, you can often identify and resolve the issue without needing professional assistance.

What should I do if the tire pressure light on my 2012 Toyota Tundra won't turn off?

If the tire pressure light on your 2012 Toyota Tundra remains illuminated, it is 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 a blowout or loss of control while driving. Start by checking the tire pressures to ensure they are at the recommended levels, as under-inflated tires can significantly affect handling and fuel efficiency. If the pressures are correct, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to see if that resolves the issue. If the light persists, it may indicate a malfunctioning sensor or a need for a relearn procedure, which involves driving at a specific speed to recalibrate the system. Neglecting these steps not only compromises your safety but can also lead to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to take immediate action to diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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2012 Toyota Tundra Tire Pressure Light Troubleshooting Guide