2011 Volvo S40 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2011 Volvo S40: 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 2011 Volvo S40 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 2011 Volvo S40 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 are the initial steps to diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on a 2011 Volvo S40?

To effectively diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2011 Volvo S40, start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. This simple step can often resolve the issue if the warning light is triggered by low pressure. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of leaks or punctures, as these can also cause the warning light to remain illuminated. If the tire pressures are correct and no visible damage is found, proceed to reset the tire pressure sensor following the specific instructions in your vehicle's manual. This reset can sometimes clear the warning light if it was triggered erroneously. Additionally, consider the age of your vehicle; if your S40 is older, the tire pressure sensors may be nearing the end of their lifespan, which typically ranges from five to ten years, and could be malfunctioning even if the tire pressures are accurate. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and determine whether further action is needed.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2011 Volvo S40?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2011 Volvo S40, it often indicates underlying issues that require attention. One of the most common problems is low tire pressure, which can occur due to temperature fluctuations, punctures, or slow leaks. To resolve this, start by checking each tire's pressure with a reliable gauge and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the tires are properly inflated yet the light persists, inspect them for visible damage or punctures that could be causing air loss. Another potential culprit is a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which may need servicing or a reset. To reset the TPMS, locate the reset button, usually found beneath the steering wheel or in the glove compartment, and follow the specific procedure outlined in your owner's manual. Addressing these issues promptly is essential, as neglecting the warning light can lead to safety hazards and further tire damage. By taking these steps, you can ensure your Volvo S40 remains safe and roadworthy.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 2011 Volvo S40?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2011 Volvo S40, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, including reduced traction, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose significant safety risks. Start by checking the tire pressure with a gauge to ensure each tire is inflated to the recommended levels. If adjustments are needed, inflate the tires accordingly. After correcting the pressure, you may need to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to clear the warning light. This can typically be done by following specific instructions in your vehicle's manual, which may involve pressing a button or turning the ignition key. If the light persists, driving at 50 mph for about 10 minutes can help recalibrate the sensor. Remember, maintaining proper tire pressure is not just about compliance; it’s essential for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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