What is the TPMS problem on a Subaru?

Most TPMS problems on a Subaru come from a failing wheel sensor or a needed relearn after tire service; the warning light can also indicate a slow leak or simply low tire pressure.

TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. In most modern Subarus, the system uses direct wheel-mounted sensors to monitor air pressure and report the data to the vehicle’s computer. Some older Subarus use an indirect method that infers pressure from wheel speed. When tires are rotated, replaced, or when sensors age, the system may require a relearn or reset. Common failure points include a dead sensor battery, damaged valve stems, or wiring/connectivity problems, which can trigger warnings or give inaccurate readings.

Common TPMS issues found in Subaru models

Here are the issues owners most frequently report, along with what they imply for maintenance and diagnosis:

• Dead or failing direct TPMS sensors in one or more wheels, often due to aging batteries.


• Valve-stem damage or corrosion at the sensor, causing slow leaks or inaccurate readings.


• Sensor damage during tire service, including improper mounting or debris causing misreadings.


• Need to relearn/reset the system after tire rotation, replacement, or wheel changes; without relearn, the car may not recognize new sensors.


• Use of aftermarket wheels/tires that are not TPMS-compatible or require a specialized relearn tool.


• TPMS control module or software faults, which may be addressed by vehicle recalls or dealer updates.


• Low tire pressure or slow-leak conditions that trigger the warning and remain until repaired.

Conclusion: The most common causes are a faulty sensor or the need for a relearn after service; diagnosing the exact problem typically starts with measuring tire pressures, then scanning for TPMS fault codes if the light persists.

Diagnosis and fixes

To diagnose and fix TPMS problems, technicians generally follow a sequence that isolates sensor, pressure, and relearn issues. The steps below outline a typical approach.

Direct vs indirect TPMS in Subaru models

Most newer Subarus use direct TPMS sensors in each wheel, with readings sent to the central module. Some models, or older generations, use indirect TPMS that relies on ABS wheel-speed data. The type in your car determines whether you should focus on sensor health and battery life (direct) or rely on system recalibration logic (indirect).

1. Check and inflate all tires to the recommended pressure on the door placard; don’t forget the spare if your model has a sensor-equipped spare.


2. Inspect tires for slow leaks, punctures, or damaged valve stems; replace or repair as needed.


3. Attempt the proper TPMS relearn procedure for your model year and trim; this may involve a drive cycle or use of a scan tool, depending on the vehicle.


4. If the light remains after a proper relearn, have a diagnostic scan to read TPMS fault codes and verify sensor integrity in each wheel.


5. Replace any failing TPMS sensor (including the battery) and perform a relearn so the system recognizes the new sensor.


6. Confirm compatibility if aftermarket wheels/tires are used and ensure a relearn is completed.

Note: Costs vary by model and region; sensor replacements and relearn can be more expensive than ordinary tire service, and some repairs may be covered under warranty or recall programs if applicable.

When to seek professional service

Persistent TPMS warnings after correcting pressure and attempting a relearn typically require professional diagnosis. A Subaru technician can verify sensor functionality, rule out electrical faults, and perform a system-wide reset if needed.

Summary

TPMS problems in Subarus usually stem from aging or faulty wheel sensors and the need for a relearn after tire work. Regularly checking tire pressures, planning sensor replacements as needed, and ensuring proper relearn after service are the best defenses against nuisance warnings. If in doubt, a professional diagnostic is the fastest path to a lasting fix.

How to fix TPMS on a Subaru?

To fix a Subaru TPMS issue, start by inflating all tires (including the spare) to the correct pressure and driving for about 10 minutes, as many systems self-reset. If the light remains on, a physical reset may be necessary if your model has a button. If the problem persists, a sensor may be faulty and require a professional diagnosis and reset with a special TPMS tool connected to the OBDII port. 
Common fixes 
This video shows how to reset the tire pressure light on a Subaru: 58sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Jun 10, 2025

• Check and adjust tire pressure: Ensure all tires, including the spare, are inflated to the correct PSI found on the driver's side door jamb. 
• Drive to reset: After adjusting pressure, drive for 10–20 minutes at speeds over 20 mph to allow the system to automatically reset itself. 
• Manual reset button (if equipped): Some models have a reset button under the dashboard. Turn the ignition to "On" (engine off), press and hold the button until the light blinks, then start the car and wait for the light to turn off. 
• Battery disconnect: Turn the car off, disconnect the positive battery cable for a few minutes, then reconnect it. This can reset the system, but the light may return if there's an underlying issue. 

When to see a professional

• If the light stays on after trying the basic steps, a sensor may be failing. 
• If the sensors are old (around 10 years), one or more may have a dead battery. 
• A shop can use a professional TPMS tool to scan for faults, reprogram sensors, and perform a full system reset through the OBDII port. 

This video shows how to use a TPMS tool to fix a sensor: 58sRAYREGNO GarageYouTube · Dec 19, 2020

How much does it cost to replace a TPMS sensor on a Subaru?

The cost to replace a Subaru TPMS sensor ranges from about $100 to $250+ per sensor, depending on where you go. This includes parts and labor, with replacement being cheaper if done at a tire shop when getting new tires, as they can avoid extra labor fees. A DIY replacement with an aftermarket sensor can cost significantly less, but requires purchasing a special tool for programming the new sensor. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts:
  • Genuine Subaru sensor: Approximately $65 to $125+ each, depending on the model year and specific part. 
  • Aftermarket sensor: Often ranges from $20 to $50 each, though some high-end models can cost more. 
• Labor:
  • Dealership: Can be around $80 to $125 per sensor plus an additional charge for reprogramming (around $30-$50). 
  • Independent shop: Often cheaper, especially when done in conjunction with other tire services. Some shops may charge about $80-$120 for installation and programming, as seen in Facebook and Facebook. 
• DIY:
  • Total cost: Around $50 for a set of four sensors and the cost of a programming tool (which can range from $40 to $350+). 
  • Note: A DIY repair is only cost-effective if you are willing to invest in a programming tool. 

Other factors to consider

• The type of sensor: Older Subaru models may have bolt-in sensors, while newer ones use a snap-in or clamp-in valve. 
• TPMS module: In some cases, the issue may be with the TPMS module rather than the sensors themselves. Replacing the module can cost around $500-$600, but this is a rare issue. 
• Warranty: If you have a third-party extended warranty, it may cover TPMS replacement after a deductible, as noted in Facebook. 

Tips for saving money

• Get a quote from a tire shop: If you are already getting new tires, replace the TPMS sensors at the same time to save on labor costs. 
• Consider aftermarket sensors: They can be significantly cheaper than OEM sensors. 
• Look for TPMS deals: Some online retailers offer TPMS sensor packages for a lower price. 
• Ask your mechanic about programming: If you can't find a shop that includes programming in their price, see if you can pay an independent shop to program them after you've installed the sensors yourself. 

Why is my TPMS light on but tires are fine?

Your TPMS light may be on despite your tires being properly inflated due to a malfunctioning sensor, a dead sensor battery, a recent tire rotation, or extreme weather conditions. A sensor can become damaged from impacts or age, a dead battery can prevent it from sending a signal, and in cold weather, air contracts, which can trigger the warning. A recent tire rotation might also cause a temporary alert that requires a reset. 
This video explains some common reasons why your TPMS light might be on even if your tires appear to be fine: 58sFixITYouTube · Jan 18, 2025
Common reasons for the TPMS light to stay on

• Sensor Malfunction: The sensor itself can be faulty due to age, damage from impacts, or corrosion, causing it to send false readings. 
• Dead Sensor Battery: Each TPMS sensor has a small battery that typically lasts 5 to 10 years before it needs replacement. 
• Weather Changes: Cold temperatures cause air to contract, leading to a drop in tire pressure that can trigger the light even if the tires appear fine. 
• Recent Tire Rotation or Replacement: If the tires were recently rotated or replaced, the system may need a few miles of driving or a manual reset to recognize the new tire positions. 
• Valve Stem Issues: A slow leak from the valve stem can cause the pressure to drop gradually, keeping the light on. 
• Improperly Inflated Spare: If you recently used your spare tire and didn't inflate it, the system may trigger the light. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check your TPMS settings and perform a manual reset: 52sHondaYouTube · May 15, 2019
What to do

1. Check all tires and the spare: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and the spare. Inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. 
2. Drive for a few minutes: After inflating the tires, drive the vehicle for 10-20 miles to give the system time to recalibrate. Some systems will reset automatically, while others may require a manual reset. 
3. Perform a manual reset: Some vehicles have a "TPMS Reset" button, often located in the glove box or on the dashboard. Pressing and holding this button for a few seconds may resolve the issue. 
4. Seek professional help: If the light remains on, take your vehicle to a professional to diagnose the problem. A mechanic can pinpoint a faulty sensor or a slow leak that is not immediately visible. 

What is the problem with the TPMS on a Subaru?

A Subaru tire pressure sensor problem often points to a failing or dead sensor, a low spare tire, or a system that needs a reset or recalibration. If the TPMS light is blinking, it indicates a sensor or system issue, while a solid light usually means a tire is low on pressure. You can first try driving to reset the system or manually checking and adjusting all tire pressures, including the spare if it has a sensor. If the problem persists, a sensor likely needs replacement, which can be done at a tire shop or dealership.
 
This video explains what to do when your Subaru tire pressure light is on: 1mPatriot SubaruYouTube · Jun 8, 2017
Possible causes and solutions 
This video explains how to reset the TPMS light on a Subaru: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · Jun 5, 2024

• Blinking light: This signals a system malfunction, most likely due to a faulty or dead sensor. 
  • Solution: Drive at a steady speed (above 505050 mph) for about 10 minutes to see if the system can reset itself. If not, a sensor may need replacement. 
• Solid light: This usually means a tire is underinflated. 
  • Solution: Perform a walk-around visual inspection to see if any tires look flat. Check and correct the pressure in all four tires (and the spare, if applicable) to the recommended PSI found on the driver's side door jamb. Drive for a short while, and the light should turn off. 
• Faulty sensors: Sensors can fail over time due to dead batteries or damage. 
  • Solution: Take the vehicle to a tire shop. They have tools to scan the sensors to determine which one is failing and can replace it. A new sensor costs between $50 and $200 per tire, plus labor. 
• TPMS system reset/recalibration: Sometimes the system needs a manual reset or recalibration, especially after a tire change. 
  • Solution: Some Subaru models have a reset button to press until the light blinks. Others may need a special procedure, like putting the vehicle in accessory mode and holding the reset button. Your owner's manual will have the correct procedure. 
• Electrical interference: External factors can sometimes cause a false alarm. 
  • Solution: Remove any interfering devices from the vehicle and try driving for a few minutes to see if the light goes off. 

This video explains why your Subaru tire light is on and how to fix it: 44sFixITYouTube · Jan 18, 2025
What to do next

• Check your tires: First, manually check all your tire pressures, including the spare, and adjust to the correct PSI. 
• Reset the system: Drive for a bit, or try the manual reset procedure for your model if you can find it in your owner's manual. 
• Visit a professional: If the light remains on, a tire shop can scan the system to identify a specific faulty sensor and replace it. 

You can watch this video to learn how to reset the TPMS system on a Subaru: 58sRAYREGNO GarageYouTube · Dec 19, 2020