There’s nothing quite like hitting the road in your Subaru Crosstrek, ready for an adventure—until the TPMS warning light suddenly appears on your dashboard.
That small but important light is your vehicle’s way of telling you something’s wrong with your tire pressure, and ignoring it could lead to bigger problems like poor fuel efficiency, uneven tire wear, or even a blowout.
So, what should you do when the TPMS warning light Subaru owners dread comes on?
Whether it’s a simple pressure adjustment or a sign of a more serious issue, taking the right steps can keep your drive smooth and safe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common causes, quick fixes, and when it’s time to schedule a Subaru service appointment.
If your TPMS light stays on and you’re in the Milwaukee area, Sommer’s Subaru is here to help.
Visit us or contact Sommer’s Subaru today!.
Common Reasons the TPMS Warning Light Comes On
The TPMS warning light Subaru drivers see is an important alert. It tells you that something is wrong with your tire pressure.
If the light appears on your dashboard, it could mean a simple fix or a bigger issue. Here are the most common reasons this light turns on:
Low Tire Pressure
Tires lose air over time, even without damage. Many things can cause this, including:
- Normal air loss through the rubber.
- Small leaks in the tire or valve stem.
- Temperature drops, especially in Milwaukee’s cold months.
If your tires are low, fill them to the correct PSI. This number is in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.
Sudden Temperature Changes
Cold weather makes air contract, lowering tire pressure. This is common in winter, but it can also happen overnight.
- If the TPMS Subaru warning light appears in the morning but disappears after driving, this is likely the cause.
- Keep an eye on your pressure as the seasons change.
Tire Damage or a Slow Leak
A puncture, cut, or crack can cause slow air loss. Signs of a problem include:
- A nail or screw stuck in the tread.
- Cracks or bulges on the sidewall.
- Uneven tread wear from misalignment.
If you notice any damage, visit a Subaru service center for an inspection.
Malfunctioning TPMS Sensor
Your Subaru’s TPMS system relies on small sensors inside the tires. Over time, these sensors may fail or need new batteries.
- If the TPMS light blinks before staying on, the sensor may need replacement.
- A failing sensor can send false alerts, even when pressure is fine.
New Tires or Recent Tire Service
If you recently had new tires installed or had a rotation, the TPMS system may need to reset.
- Some models, like the Crosstrek, may reset automatically after driving a few miles.
- If the light stays on, a manual reset may be needed.
If your TPMS light stays on despite proper inflation, the experts at Sommer’s Subaru can help. Their trained technicians can diagnose the issue and get you back on the road safely.
How to Check Your Tire Pressure and Resolve the Issue
When the TPMS warning light in Subaru vehicles used for tire monitoring appears, your first step should be to check your tire pressure. Low pressure is often the cause, and addressing it quickly can help prevent further issues.
Properly inflated tires improve safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance, whether you’re driving through Milwaukee or heading out on a longer trip.
Ignoring the warning light could lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, or even a blowout.
Follow these steps to check and adjust your tire pressure to ensure your Crosstrek or other Subaru model remains safe on the road.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before checking your tire pressure, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- A tire pressure gauge – A digital or standard gauge will work.
- An air pump or access to an air station – Many gas stations have air pumps, or you can use a portable inflator.
- Your vehicle’s recommended PSI – You can find this information inside the driver’s side door jamb or in your Subaru owner’s manual.
Step 2: Check the Pressure in Each Tire
Checking your tire pressure only takes a few minutes, but it can save you from serious problems down the road. Here’s how:
- Remove the valve cap from the first tire. Keep it in a safe place so it doesn’t get lost.
- Press the gauge onto the valve stem firmly. A short burst of air may escape, which is normal.
- Read the pressure on the gauge and compare it to the recommended PSI.
- Repeat for all four tires and the spare if your vehicle has one. Even if only one tire seems low, it’s best to check them all.
Step 3: Inflate or Deflate as Needed
Once you know your tire pressure, adjust it as needed.
- If the pressure is too low, add air in small bursts. After each burst, use the gauge to check if you’ve reached the correct PSI.
- If the pressure is too high, press the small pin inside the valve stem to release air. Check the pressure again to ensure you don’t remove too much.
Proper tire pressure keeps your vehicle running smoothly, improving handling and gas mileage.
Step 4: Drive to Reset the TPMS System
After adjusting your tire pressure, take a short drive to allow the TPMS to recalibrate.
Most Subaru models, including the Crosstrek, require driving at speeds above 25 mph for a few miles before the system updates. If the TPMS Subaru warning light turns off, the issue has been resolved.
However, if the light stays on, a manual reset may be necessary. Some Subaru models allow drivers to reset the TPMS through the infotainment system or dashboard controls.
Check your owner’s manual for instructions on performing a manual reset.
Step 5: Check for Other Possible Issues
If your tires are properly inflated but the TPMS warning light Subaru drivers rely on remains on, there may be another underlying issue.
If you’re unable to reset the system or suspect a sensor issue, it’s best to visit a Subaru service center. Certified technicians can diagnose and resolve TPMS problems, ensuring your vehicle is safe for the road.
By maintaining proper tire pressure and addressing TPMS issues quickly, you’ll keep your Crosstrek or any other Subaru model running efficiently.
Regular checks help prevent long-term damage and ensure a smooth, safe ride.
Inspecting Your Tires for Damage or Wear
A TPMS Subaru warning is often triggered by low tire pressure, but the problem may go beyond a simple air refill.
Damaged or worn tires can cause the system to detect unsafe conditions. Checking your tires regularly can help you spot issues early and avoid costly repairs.
Step 1: Look for Visible Damage
Start by inspecting each tire for signs of wear or damage. Look for:
- Cracks or cuts in the sidewall
- Bulges or bubbles that indicate internal damage
- Objects lodged in the tread, such as nails or glass
- Uneven wear patterns, which could point to alignment issues
If you notice any of these, it’s best to have a professional at a Subaru service center inspect the tires. Driving on damaged tires can lead to a blowout.
Step 2: Check the Tread Depth
Tire tread provides grip on the road. If it wears down too much, traction and stopping power decrease. You can check tread depth in two ways:
- Penny Test – Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see his entire head, the tread is too low.
- Tread Depth Gauge – This tool gives an exact measurement. If the tread is below 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires.
Low tread can cause poor handling, especially in wet or icy conditions. If you drive a Crosstrek, keeping your tread in good shape is key for off-road and all-weather performance.
Step 3: Inspect for Uneven Wear
Uneven tire wear can signal other issues, such as:
Inner or outer edge wear
- Possible Cause – Poor alignment or suspension issues
- Solution – Get an alignment check at a Subaru service center.
Center tread wear
- Possible Cause – Overinflated tires
- Solution – Lower the pressure to the recommended PSI.
Edge wear
- Possible Cause – Underinflated tires
- Solution – Add air as needed.
If your tires show uneven wear, adjusting tire pressure or scheduling a service check can help extend their lifespan.
Step 4: Check for Slow Leaks
A slow leak may cause your TPMS warning light Subaru drivers rely on to turn on. To check for leaks:
- Listen for hissing sounds near the valve stem or tire surface.
- Use soapy water – Apply it to the tire. Bubbles will form where air escapes.
- Monitor tire pressure over a few days to see if one tire drops faster than the others.
If you suspect a leak, visit a Subaru service center to determine if the tire can be patched or needs replacement.
Regular tire checks help keep your vehicle safe and prevent sudden problems on the road. A little time spent inspecting your tires now can save you from bigger issues later.
Cold Weather and the TPMS Warning Light
When temperatures drop, you may see the TPMS warning light in Subaru vehicles used to monitor tire pressure.
This is a common issue in colder months. Cold air causes tire pressure to drop, even if there are no leaks.
Why Does Cold Weather Affect Tire Pressure?
Tire pressure changes with temperature. When the air gets colder, it contracts, lowering the pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure can decrease by about 1-2 PSI.
Temperature Drop and Estimated PSI Loss
- 10°F – 1-2 PSI
- 20°F – 2-4 PSI
- 30°F – 3-6 PSI
If pressure falls too low, your TPMS Subaru warning system will alert you.
What Should You Do?
If your warning light comes on during cold weather, take these steps:
- Check your tire pressure using a gauge before driving.
- Inflate your tires to the recommended PSI if they are low.
- Drive for a few minutes to let the tires warm up. Sometimes, the light turns off on its own.
If the light stays on, visit a Subaru service center to have your tires checked for leaks or other issues.
Preventing Cold Weather TPMS Warnings
You can reduce the chances of seeing a TPMS warning light by:
- Checking tire pressure before winter starts
- Keeping a portable air pump in your vehicle
- Having your tires inspected at a Subaru service center
If you drive a Crosstrek, maintaining proper tire pressure is key for handling in snow and ice. Winter roads can be unpredictable, and well-inflated tires improve grip and safety.
Taking a few minutes to check your tires can help you avoid bigger problems later. Stay ahead of the cold and keep your vehicle ready for winter driving.
Resetting the TPMS System in Your Subaru
After checking and adjusting your tire pressure, the TPMS warning light Subaru vehicles use may still stay on.
This is normal. In most cases, the system will reset on its own after you drive for a few miles. If it doesn’t, you may need to reset it manually.
How to Reset the TPMS System
Follow these steps to reset the system:
- Check and inflate your tires to the correct PSI.
- Drive your vehicle at 20–25 mph for at least 10 minutes.
- Turn off the engine, then restart your car to see if the light disappears.
- If the light stays on, check for a reset button under the dashboard near the steering wheel.
- Press and hold the reset button until the TPMS light blinks, then release.
Some models, like the Crosstrek, do not have a manual reset button. Instead, the system will reset after a short drive.
When to Visit a Subaru Service Center
If the TPMS Subaru warning light stays on after following these steps, there may be another issue. Common problems include:
- A damaged or faulty sensor
- A slow leak in a tire
- A dead TPMS battery
A Subaru service technician can inspect the system and fix any issues. Ignoring the warning light can lead to unsafe driving conditions, so it’s best to have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.
Keeping your TPMS system working properly helps ensure your safety on the road. A quick reset can often solve the problem, but if not, expert help is always available.
Stay Safe on the Road with Sommer’s Subaru
If your tire pressure light stays on, the team at Sommer’s Subaru is here to help.
Whether you need a simple pressure check or expert Subaru service, we’ll make sure your vehicle is safe for the road. Drivers in Milwaukee and beyond can explore our wide selection of vehicles, including the Crosstrek, and find the perfect Subaru for their adventures.
If you’re interested in learning more about maintaining your tires, check out our car tire pressure guide for helpful tips.
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No matter where your Subaru takes you, Sommer’s Subaru is here to keep you moving. Contact us or visit Sommer’s Subaru today!
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