1998 Volvo S90 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 1998 Volvo S90 and How to Resolve Them

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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 1998 Volvo S90 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 1998 Volvo S90 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.

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 tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 1998 Volvo S90?

To effectively diagnose a tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 1998 Volvo S90, start with the simplest solution: checking the tire pressure. Ensure that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, which can typically be found in the owner's manual or on a label located on the driver's side door pillar. If the tire pressure is correct, the next step is to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This can often be accomplished by adding air to the tires and then driving the vehicle at speeds exceeding 20 mph, which may trigger an automatic reset of the system. If the warning light continues to stay on, inspect the tires and valve stems for any signs of leaks, as even minor leaks can lead to pressure drops that activate the warning light. Additionally, consider the possibility of faulty sensors, especially since the 1998 model may utilize physical sensors in each wheel. If these sensors are malfunctioning, they could be the source of the issue. Should the problem persist after these checks, it may be wise to consult a Volvo specialist who can employ diagnostic tools to further investigate, as the ABS and TPMS systems are often interconnected, and issues in one can affect the other. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the tire pressure warning light in your vehicle.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1998 Volvo S90?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1998 Volvo S90, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. One primary cause is a faulty tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor, which may fail to accurately read tire pressure, leading to the warning light activation. Additionally, incorrect tire inflation can trigger the light; therefore, it’s essential to manually check that all tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Another issue could be a leaking tire or wheel, which not only affects pressure but can also cause the TPMS to malfunction. If the tires and sensors appear to be in good condition, consider that the system itself may be experiencing a malfunction, particularly if recent tire or wheel replacements have occurred. Lastly, environmental factors, such as cold weather, can sometimes cause temporary glitches in the system. By systematically checking these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the issue without needing professional assistance.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 1998 Volvo S90?

If the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1998 Volvo S90, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, such as tire blowouts or compromised vehicle handling, which can increase the risk of accidents. Start by manually checking the tire pressure to confirm that all tires are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressure is correct but the light persists, consider resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to save the new inflation data. Be aware that a malfunctioning TPMS can indicate deeper issues, such as problems with the wheel speed sensors, which are vital for monitoring tire pressure in older models. If you suspect a malfunction or if the warning light continues to stay on, it is advisable to consult a Volvo specialist. They can diagnose the problem accurately and help prevent further damage to your vehicle, ensuring that you remain safe while driving. Taking these steps seriously can save you from costly repairs and enhance your overall driving experience.

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