2013 Volkswagen Tiguan Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Tire Pressure Warning Light Issue in 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan: Causes and Solutions

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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 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 in my 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start 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 vehicle's manual. If the pressure is correct, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a loss of air. Next, examine the valve stems for any signs of leaks or damage, as these can also contribute to pressure loss. If everything appears normal, utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for any fault codes related to the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which can provide insights into underlying issues. If you find no faults, consider resetting the TPMS according to your vehicle's manual, as this can sometimes resolve minor glitches. However, if the warning light persists after these steps, it may be time to consult a certified mechanic for a thorough inspection and diagnosis, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIY enthusiasts can investigate. First, low tire pressure is often the primary culprit; checking and inflating each tire to the manufacturer's recommended levels is a straightforward task that can quickly resolve the issue. If the tire pressure is adequate, the next step is to consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor. These sensors can malfunction, leading to persistent warning lights, and may require replacement if they are found to be defective. Additionally, the batteries within the sensors can deplete over time, so checking and replacing them might be necessary. Calibration of the TPMS sensors is another aspect to consider, as improper calibration can lead to inaccurate readings; this can often be done at home with the right tools or by a professional. Electrical issues within the TPMS system, such as damaged wiring or connections, can also trigger the warning light, necessitating a thorough inspection. Lastly, external interference from nearby electronic devices can disrupt the TPMS signals, so ensuring that the vehicle is away from such sources may help. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your Tiguan.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 the tire pressure is below the recommended levels, which can severely compromise the vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This poses a heightened risk of accidents, particularly in emergency situations where quick response is essential. Furthermore, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, leading to premature tire replacement, which can be costly. Additionally, low tire pressure negatively impacts fuel efficiency, resulting in increased fuel expenses over time. The risk of tire damage, including potential blowouts, further underscores the urgency of this issue. Therefore, it is essential to check and inflate the tires to the proper levels as soon as the warning light activates. If the light persists despite these measures, seeking professional assistance is crucial to ensure the vehicle's safety and reliability.

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