2012 Volvo XC90 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2012 Volvo XC90 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2012 Volvo XC90 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 2012 Volvo XC90 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 2012 Volvo XC90?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2012 Volvo XC90, start with the simplest solution: checking the tire pressure. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels specified in your vehicle’s manual, as fluctuations in temperature can impact tire pressure. If the pressures are correct but the warning light remains on, proceed to reset the warning light through the vehicle’s settings, ensuring all tires are properly inflated beforehand. If the light persists, inspect the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors, as a malfunctioning sensor can trigger the warning even when tire pressures are adequate. Additionally, driving the vehicle over 25 mph for about 10 minutes may help reset the sensor automatically. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider using a Volvo scanner to read fault codes from the instrument cluster (IC) module, which can provide insights into any underlying problems that may need professional attention. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the tire pressure warning light issue in your Volvo XC90.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 Volvo XC90?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2012 Volvo XC90, it can be attributed to several common issues that are relatively easy to diagnose and address. First, low or high tire pressure is the most frequent culprit; ensuring that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels is crucial. Additionally, a tire puncture or leak can lead to a drop in pressure, so visually inspecting each tire for any signs of damage is essential. Temperature fluctuations can also impact tire pressure, particularly in colder months, so checking the pressure during significant weather changes is advisable. If the tire pressures are correct and no visible damage is found, the problem may lie with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors themselves, which could be malfunctioning. In such cases, a more in-depth inspection or professional assistance may be required to resolve the issue effectively. By following these steps, DIY enthusiasts can troubleshoot the warning light and ensure their Volvo XC90 is safe and roadworthy.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light on my 2012 Volvo XC90 stays on?

When the tire pressure warning light on your 2012 Volvo XC90 remains illuminated, it signals a critical issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, increased tire wear, and even potential blowouts. Start by checking the tire pressure with a gauge to ensure each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If adjustments are needed, inflate the tires accordingly. After this, driving at 50 mph for about 10 minutes can help reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). If the light persists, consult your vehicle's manual for specific reset instructions, as these can vary. Additionally, inspect your tires for any visible leaks or damage, as these could be the underlying cause of the warning. If necessary, perform a manual reset using the TPMS reset button, typically located under the steering wheel or in the glove compartment. Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road.

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