1995 Volvo 850 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 1995 Volvo 850

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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 1995 Volvo 850 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 1995 Volvo 850 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.

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 1995 Volvo 850?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 1995 Volvo 850, begin with a thorough check of the tire pressure using a reliable gauge, ensuring the tires are cold for accurate readings. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended psi levels, typically between 32 and 35 psi. If the pressure is low, inflate the tires to the specified levels and ensure to replace the valve stem caps afterward. After adjusting the pressure, drive the vehicle at speeds above 20 mph to allow the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to reset automatically. If the warning light remains illuminated, inspect the tires for any visible leaks or damage, including the valve stems and wheel rims. Be mindful of temperature changes, as they can affect tire pressure; adjust accordingly if you've recently moved to a warmer climate. If the tire pressure is correct but the light persists, consider potential malfunctions in the TPMS sensors or the system itself, which may require diagnostic tools for further investigation. If all else fails, consulting a Volvo specialist can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and address any underlying issues. By following these steps, you can systematically approach the problem and potentially resolve the tire pressure warning light concern on your Volvo.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1995 Volvo 850?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1995 Volvo 850, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. First, it's essential to check the tire pressure, as both low and high pressures can trigger the warning light. Refer to the owner's manual or the tire pressure sticker for the correct specifications. Additionally, inspect the tires and wheels for any signs of leaks or damage, as a leaking tire can prevent the system from registering accurate pressure. If the tire pressure is correct and there are no visible leaks, consider the possibility of faulty tire pressure sensors, which may require replacement if they are malfunctioning. Another potential issue could stem from the ABS system, as problems within this system, such as faulty wheel speed sensors or low brake fluid, can also activate the TPMS warning light. Lastly, if you've recently changed tires or adjusted pressures, the TPMS may need recalibration to reset the system. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify the root cause of the warning light and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 1995 Volvo 850?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 1995 Volvo 850 is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. Underinflated tires can lead to dangerous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of tire blowouts and compromising vehicle stability, which can result in serious accidents. Additionally, neglecting this warning can lead to premature tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and excessive heat buildup, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your tires. If the light persists even after checking and adjusting the tire pressure, it may indicate a malfunction within the TPMS itself, such as a faulty sensor, which requires immediate attention to ensure the system functions correctly in the future. Regular maintenance, including monthly tire pressure checks, is essential to prevent these issues and maintain optimal performance and safety. Therefore, it is crucial to take action as soon as the warning light stays on to avoid potentially hazardous situations and costly repairs.

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