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What causes the tire pressure monitoring system light to stay on in a 2020 Toyota Highlander? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What causes the tire pressure monitoring system light to stay on in a 2020 Toyota Highlander?

What causes the tire pressure monitoring system light to stay on in a 2020 Toyota Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
2-3 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
673 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the tire pressure monitoring system light issue on a 2020 Toyota Highlander with detailed steps and required tools.

Affected Component
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Estimated Time
2-3 hours

Symptoms

  • •The TPMS warning light is illuminated on the dashboard.
  • •Tire pressure below manufacturer specifications.
  • •Warning message displayed on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
  • •Uneven tire wear or handling issues (if driving).

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Tire pressure gauge
  • •Visual inspection checklist
  • •TPMS reset tool
  • •TPMS scan tool
  • •Multimeter
  • •Wiring diagram (service manual)
  • •Tire iron
  • •Valve core tool
  • •Torque wrench

Additional Information

Affected Component
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Estimated Time
2-3 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
9 items

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Back to Generation
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light Diagnosis for 2020 Toyota Highlander
Potential Causes
  1. Low Tire Pressure: One or more tires may be under-inflated.
  2. Faulty TPMS Sensors: Sensors may be malfunctioning or damaged.
  3. TPMS System Malfunction: Issues with the TPMS control module.
  4. Temperature Changes: Significant temperature drops can affect tire pressure.
  5. Tire Rotation: If tires were rotated without reprogramming the TPMS.
  6. Battery Failure in TPMS Sensors: Sensors' batteries may be dead (most last 5-10 years).
  7. Faulty Wiring or Connections: Wiring issues leading to sensor failure.

Step 1: Visual Inspection

  • Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, Visual inspection checklist
  • Instructions:
    1. Inspect each tire visually for any obvious damage or signs of deflation (bulges, punctures).
    2. Check the sidewall for any cuts or abrasions.

Step 2: Check Tire Pressure

  • Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge
  • Instructions:
    1. Remove the valve stem caps from each tire.
    2. Use the tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in each tire.
    3. Compare the readings with the recommended tire pressure (found on the driver’s door jamb).
    4. Inflate any tires that are below the recommended pressure.

Step 3: Reset the TPMS

  • Tools Required: TPMS reset tool (if needed)
  • Instructions:
    1. After adjusting the tire pressure, drive the vehicle for 10-15 minutes at speeds above 20 mph. The TPMS may reset automatically if the pressure is corrected.
    2. If the light remains on, use a TPMS reset tool or follow the vehicle's reset procedure:
      • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine.
      • Locate the TPMS reset button (often under the steering wheel).
      • Press and hold the reset button until the TPMS light blinks three times, then release it.
      • Start the engine and check if the light goes off.

Step 4: Check TPMS Sensors

  • Tools Required: TPMS scan tool
  • Instructions:
    1. Use a TPMS scan tool to check the status and data of each sensor.
    2. Identify any sensor that is not transmitting data or has a fault code.
    3. If a sensor is defective, replace it according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 5: Inspect Wiring and Connections

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, Wiring diagram (service manual)
  • Instructions:
    1. Inspect the wiring harness connected to the TPMS control module for any visible damage or corrosion.
    2. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the wiring.
    3. Repair any damaged wires or connections.
Repair Instructions

Replacing a TPMS Sensor

  • Tools Required: Tire iron, TPMS sensor tool, Valve core tool, Torque wrench
  • Instructions:
    1. Ensure the vehicle is safely lifted with jack stands.
    2. Remove the wheel using the tire iron.
    3. Deflate the tire using the valve core tool.
    4. Remove the tire from the wheel using a tire mounting machine (if available).
    5. Locate the TPMS sensor inside the tire and remove it by unscrewing the retaining nut.
    6. Install the new TPMS sensor, ensuring it is properly seated and secured.
    7. Reassemble the tire onto the wheel and inflate to the correct pressure.
    8. Reinstall the wheel on the vehicle and torque to specifications.
    9. Repeat the process for any other faulty sensors as needed.

Final Steps

  1. After completing repairs or replacements, perform a TPMS reset as outlined in Step 3.
  2. Test drive the vehicle to ensure the TPMS light turns off and the system is functioning correctly.
Conclusion

By following these detailed diagnostic and repair steps, you can effectively address the TPMS light issue on a 2020 Toyota Highlander. Ensure to regularly check and maintain tire pressures to prevent future occurrences. If the problem persists after these steps, consider seeking professional assistance to diagnose potential system-level issues.