Troubleshooting Subaru Tire Pressure Light Blinking: Causes and Solutions

Subaru is an excellent vehicle that earned praise for its reliability. But like any other vehicle, you may experience issues like a blinking tire pressure light. This problem requires immediate attention as it can lead to severe consequences. But how do troubleshoot tire pressure light blinking in Subaru models?

A blinking Subaru tire pressure light can be due to several reasons. For instance, a wheel alignment issue, low tire pressure, a tire puncture or leak, a malfunctioning pressure sensor, etc.  To quickly fix the issue, you must look into these causes.

I will explore the causes behind a blinking tire pressure light in Subaru vehicles and provide solutions to help you troubleshoot. Let’s get started.

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Why Is My Subaru Tire Pressure Light Blinking?

Your Subaru tire pressure light may be blinking due to many reasons. However, I am sharing the few major causes that you must check for a quick resolution of the problem.

• Low tire pressure
• Tire puncture or leak
• Faulty tire pressure sensor
• Faulty tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
• Wheel misalignment 

The tire pressure light blinking issue is also common in the Nissan brand. If you own a car from this brand you can also visit this link to know the common causes for Nissan tire pressure light blinking.

How To Fix Subaru Tire Pressure Light Blinking: Problems and Solutions

Problem 1: Low Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure in a Subaru can trigger the tire pressure light to blink. The reason is that it indicates that the tire pressure is lower than the recommended tire pressure. It may affect the vehicle’s performance and safety. You will need to immediately fix the issue to get back to the road safely.

Solution:

• First, park Subaru in the parking area and switch it off
• Then locate the tire pressure placard inside the driver’s door. If not found there, consult the owner’s manual for the recommended pressure.
• Then take a tire pressure gauge and check each tire’s pressure. I recommend the SATA Tire inflator with a Pressure Gauge to check the tire’s pressure.
• Inflate any underinflated tires to the recommended level using an air pump.
• After inflating, recheck the tire pressure to ensure it matches the recommended level.
• Once done, start your Subaru car and check if the tire pressure light stops blinking.

Problem 2: Tire Puncture or Leak

A tire puncture or leak can be a common problem in a Subaru. It leads to the tire pressure light blinking as it decreases in tire pressure. Low tire pressure can impact the vehicle’s handling and increase the risk of tire damage or failure. You may be unable to continue the drive. You should immediately resolve the issue to continue the drive.

Solution:

• Start with inspecting the tires visually for damage.
• Then check the pressure in each tire using a tire pressure gauge to 
• . Ensure the tire pressure is up to the recommended level. If any tire has low tire pressure, inflate it.
• If a tire still has lower pressure. Remove it and visually inspect it for any punctures, nails, or screws.
• Once you find a puncture, use a tire repair kit and repair it. I recommend Slime 20133 Tire Repair Tackle Kit. It is affordable and easy to patch.
• Once repaired, inflate the tire to the recommended pressure and reinstall it on the vehicle.
• Reset the tire pressure monitoring system by following the instructions in the owner’s manual.
• Then check for the tire pressure light and ensure to clear the blinking tire pressure light.

Problem 3: Faulty Tire Pressure Sensor

When the tire pressure sensor fault in a Subaru, it may cause the tire pressure light to blink. The sensor fails to accurately measure the tire pressure that fails to send signals to the system. So, you may experience a blinking light. It needs immediate replacement.

Solution:

• First, check your tire pressure manually using a gauge.
• Then, inspect all tires for damage or puncture.
• If there is no visible puncture, check for the tire pressure sensor. Locate the tire pressure sensor on each tire. It is inside the tire.
• Once found, reset the tire pressure monitoring system.
• If the light still blinks, you may have a faulty sensor. Replace the faulty sensor with a new one.

Problem 4: Faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

A faulty tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) in a Subaru may be the culprit for the tire pressure light to blink. The system fails to monitor the tire pressure, which sends warning signals. So, you may see a blinking light. You must check for the monitoring system and solve it to resolve the issue.

Solution:

• Start it visually by checking the tires for damage or low pressure.
• Check all tire pressures manually with a gauge.
• Inflate or deflate tires to the recommended levels.
• If you see the light is still blinking, check for TPMS.
• First, reset the TPMS by locating the reset button.
• If the issue persists, you have faulty TPMS. 
• Remove the faulty TPMS and replace or repair it with a new one for Subaru.
• After replacing it, take a test drive and ensure the light has stopped blinking.

Problem 5: Wheel Misalignment 

Wheel misalignment in a Subaru can cause the tire pressure light to blink. 

Misalignment puts uneven pressure on the tires, which may lead to abnormal tire wear and potential handling issues. It can affect the vehicle’s overall performance.

Solution

• Park your Subaru car on a leveled surface and switch off the engine.
• Then, check the tires for damage or uneven wear.
• Check the tire pressure using a pressure gauge.
• If everything is okay, rotate the tires to see if the blinking light changes position. 
• If you notice the wheel is misaligned, take an aligning tool and adjust its alignment. I recommend the Pro Alignment Steering Wheel Holder Stand Tool for Car. It is easy to use and very affordable.

Why Does My Subaru Tire Pressure Light Stay On?

The Subaru tire pressure light may stay on for various reasons. Below are some of the possible reasons.

• Low or high tire pressure in one or more tires
• A faulty tire pressure sensor
• TPMS malfunction.

Solution:

• Check tire pressure with a gauge and then adjust tire pressure to the recommended level.
• If the problem exists, check the tire pressure sensors for damage or corrosion. If corroded, remove its corrosion, but if damaged, replace it.
• First, reset the TPMS system; if the light still blinks, you may need to replace the TPMS.

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Why Won’t My Subaru Tire Pressure Light Won’t Go Off?

The Subaru tire pressure light won’t go off because of low pressure in one or more tires. Check and adjust the tire pressures to bring it up to the recommended levels. If the light is still blinking, there may be an issue with the TPMS or its sensor. 

Why Does My Subaru Tire Pressure Sensor Problem?

The tire pressure sensor in your Subaru might be experiencing issues due to factors like low battery, sensor damage, or incorrect tire pressure. These problems can cause the sensor to malfunction, leading to inaccurate readings or failure to detect tire pressure changes.

Solution:

• Check the tire pressure using a reliable gauge and ensure it is up to the recommended levels.
• If the problem exists, replace the sensor battery if it’s low or dead.
• Then, check the sensor for any damage and replace it if necessary.
• Also, reset the tire pressure monitoring system to stop the light to blink
• Finally, take a test drive and ensure the light has stopped.

Subaru Tire Pressure Sensor Replacement:

• First, locate the damaged sensor on your tire. Check each tire for a damaged sensor.
• Remove the old sensors by unscrewing it from the valve stem.
• Install the new sensor by screwing it onto the valve stem.
• Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure level.
• Confirm that the new sensors are functioning properly.

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How Do You Reset The Tire Pressure Light On a Subaru?

Resetting the tire pressure light on a Subaru car is simple if you follow the steps below.

• First, ensure all tires are properly inflated.
• Then, locate the TPMS reset button. It usually is near the steering column in Subaru. 
• Turn the key to “ON” but without starting the engine.
• Press and hold the TPMS reset button for a few seconds until the light blinks three times.
• Once the light blinked, release the button and start the engine. 

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When To Seek Professional Help?

The tire pressure light blinking on your Subaru indicates a severe issue with your vehicle’s tire pressure system. You should seek professional help immediately. 

Ignoring the blinking light could lead to tire damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety risks. Don’t delay; contact a professional mechanic or visit a tire service center to fix the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Conclusion

A blinking tire pressure light in your Subaru signs for various issues that require prompt attention. These can range from low tire pressure to sensor malfunctions. It is essential to check tire pressure regularly and address leaks or damages. Regular maintenance may help to reduce the problem and improve performance and safety levels.