Volvo S40 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Volvo S40 and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Volvo S40

When addressing the tire pressure warning light in your Volvo S40, begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable gauge. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, which can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver's door. If any tire is under-inflated, inflate it to the correct level and monitor if the warning light turns off after a short drive. If the light remains illuminated, inspect each tire for visible signs of damage or leaks, such as punctures or cracks. If you find a leak, it may require a repair or replacement. Next, consider the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself; if your vehicle has a direct TPMS, locate the reset button on the dashboard and press it to reset the sensors. For an indirect system, you may need to use a magnet or a specialized tool to reset the system, which might require professional assistance if you lack the necessary equipment. If the warning light persists despite these efforts, it could indicate a malfunction within the TPMS, such as a faulty sensor or software issue, which may necessitate a visit to a qualified technician for further diagnosis and potential reprogramming. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your Volvo S40.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Volvo S40

When troubleshooting the tire pressure warning light in a Volvo S40, it's important to recognize the common problems that can trigger this alert. A leaking tire or one that fails to maintain air pressure is often the culprit, leading to the warning light illuminating. Additionally, a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can cause the light to remain on, even if the tires are adequately inflated. To begin addressing the issue, check the tire pressures; if they are correct but the warning persists, this may indicate a faulty sensor. Resetting the TPMS is a crucial step in resolving the warning light, and the method varies based on whether your vehicle employs a direct or indirect system. For direct systems, you may need to press a reset button or consult the owner's manual, while indirect systems might require a magnet or scanning tool for resetting. Regular maintenance, including resetting the TPMS after any tire changes or pressure adjustments, is essential for accurate monitoring. If the warning light continues to appear despite these troubleshooting efforts, it could signal a more serious issue, such as a software malfunction, which may require advanced diagnostics or reprogramming. By understanding these common problems and following the necessary steps, you can effectively manage the tire pressure warning light in your Volvo S40.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Volvo S40?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your Volvo S40, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety risks, such as reduced vehicle control, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which can result in accidents. Start by checking the tire pressures to ensure they are at the recommended levels; a simple tire gauge can help you with this task. If the pressures are correct, the next step is to investigate the functionality of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors. A malfunctioning sensor can falsely trigger the warning light, so consider resetting the TPMS through your vehicle's dashboard settings. If the light persists, it may indicate deeper issues, such as a damaged sensor or a problem with the TPMS receiver. Addressing these concerns promptly not only enhances your safety on the road but also prevents potential damage to your vehicle, making it essential for any DIY enthusiast to take these steps seriously.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.