Why is the tire pressure light flashing on my Chevy Trax?
The flashing tire pressure light on a Chevy Trax usually signals a TPMS fault or a learning/relearn mode rather than just underinflation. You should inspect the tires and, if needed, have the system diagnosed by a professional if the light persists.
What the flashing TPMS indicator means
On most GM vehicles, a steady TPMS light means a tire is underinflated; a flashing light points to a malfunction in the TPMS or the system’s sensor learning process. If a tire is losing air, the light may illuminate steadily, and a flashing pattern typically indicates a system issue or an ongoing relearn after tire service.
Because the Trax uses sensors in each wheel to monitor air pressure and report to the instrument cluster via radio, a flashing light can be caused by weak sensors, dead batteries in sensors, a sensor ID mismatch after tire changes, or a wheel sensor that isn’t communicating properly. The light can also appear after the vehicle’s battery has been disconnected or reset, resetting the TPMS and triggering a relearn requirement.
Quick checks you can perform
Before pursuing a diagnostic, rule out simple causes with these basic checks.
- Check all tires with a gauge and inflate to the pressure listed on the driver door placard or in the owner's manual (also check the spare if your Trax reports tire pressures).
- Inspect tires for punctures, nails, cuts, bulges, or signs of slow leaks that could be lowering pressure over time.
- Look for uneven wear or sidewall damage that could indicate a compromised tire or wheel.
- Ensure the light’s behavior changes after inflating to spec; if it remains flashing, proceed to diagnosis.
These checks help distinguish a simple underinflation issue from a broader TPMS fault that requires service.
Learn and relearn: how TPMS reprogramming works on a Trax
In many cases where tires or sensors have been replaced or rotated, the TPMS must relearn the sensor IDs so the system can correctly read pressures again. The exact steps can vary by model year, so consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for the precise procedure. Here’s what typically happens.
What a TPMS diagnostic involves
When diagnosing TPMS, technicians check sensor IDs, battery health, valve seals, wheel seal integrity, and the TPMS control module to determine whether a sensor needs replacement or if a reprogramming is required.
- If your model supports a DIY Learn, access the TPMS Learn option through the instrument cluster or infotainment display, and initiate the process.
- Turn the ignition to ON (engine off) and follow the prompts or use a dedicated TPMS reset button if present. Some models require you to press and hold a reset button until the TPMS light blinks.
- Drive at steady speeds (approximately 32–60 mph) for 10–15 minutes to allow the system to learn and calibrate the new sensor data.
- After learning, the indicator should stop flashing and remain steady if all sensors are communicating correctly. If it continues to flash, there may be a sensor problem or wiring fault.
If you’re unsure or the light remains unsettled after a relearn attempt, professional service is recommended to check sensor health and system wiring.
When to seek professional help
Persistent or recurring flashing TPMS lights indicate that a deeper issue exists. A dealership or qualified shop can perform a diagnostic scan to identify sensor faults, battery health, or control module errors, and replace sensors if needed.
What professionals typically examine
During a TPMS service, technicians may inspect sensor batteries, verify correct sensor IDs, check for air leaks in tires, test wiring between wheel sensors and the TPMS module, and reprogram or replace sensors as required.
- The light continues to flash after attempting a relearn or after inflating tires to spec.
- You notice a tire is consistently losing air or has a slow leak that you cannot fix by yourself.
- You observe sensor battery failure symptoms, such as unresponsive sensors or abnormally high/low readings.
- You recently replaced tires or wheels and did not have the TPMS relearn performed or sensors reprogrammed.
Professional diagnosis can pinpoint whether the problem lies with a wheel sensor, a battery, or the TPMS control module, and ensure proper tire pressures across all wheels.
Summary
For Chevy Trax drivers, a flashing TPMS light usually signals a system fault or a learning process after tire work, rather than simply low tire pressure. Start with a quick tire pressure check and inspection, then pursue a TPMS relearn if you’ve changed tires or sensors. If the light persists, seek professional diagnosis to verify sensor health and system integrity. Regularly maintaining correct tire pressures and ensuring TPMS sensors function properly helps keep you safe on the road.
