Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

As you drive, the message "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" suddenly illuminates on your Ford Explorer dashboard. What does this signify, and what are the potential costs associated with resolving it? Can the issue be resolved simply by inflating the tires to the correct pressure?

Tire pressure sensors are among the inconspicuous, modern Ford features unnoticed when functioning properly. However, when they malfunction, diagnosing the problem can become challenging.

In this article, we will clarify the meaning behind a tire pressure sensor fault message and guide you through the steps to address it. Keep reading to gain a better understanding.

What Does the Tire Pressure Sensor Fault Mean?

The appearance of the "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" message signals a problem within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), often related to a malfunctioning tire pressure sensor or its connection.

The error code may convey information about excessively low or high tire pressure, or indicate a defect in one of the tire pressure sensors.

Alternatively, the issue could stem from a malfunctioning TPMS control unit, faulty wiring, or an unsettled TPMS reset. To pinpoint the exact cause, the most straightforward approach is to utilize an OBD-2 scanner to read the error codes stored in the TPMS control unit.

How Does a TPMS System Work?

A TPMS system can function in two distinct ways. In vehicles manufactured post-2007, a typical TPMS system includes sensors in each tire, detecting tire pressure and transmitting this information to the TPMS control unit.

The message "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" is triggered on the dashboard if the tire pressure is too high or too low, or if communication with the sensors is disrupted.

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In contrast, some cars lack sensors in their tires and instead use ABS sensors to calculate wheel rotation. In the event of low pressure, the compressed wheel diameter requires faster rotation to match the car's speed.

Any deviation in speed among wheels is recorded as an error code in the TPMS or ABS. As a result, driving a certain distance is necessary before the Ford Explorer displays an estimated tire pressure. This estimation serves as a simple approximation, rather than an exact tire pressure reading.

Causes of the Tire Pressure Sensor Fault Message

Several factors could trigger the appearance of the "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" message on your dashboard. It is essential to verify trouble codes before drawing any conclusions. Here are the four most prevalent causes of a tire pressure sensor fault message:

Faulty Tire Pressure Sensor

Regrettably, the predominant cause of this message is often a malfunctioning tire pressure sensor, positioned within the tires. These sensors contain batteries, which over time may deplete, necessitating the replacement of the entire sensor.

Tire Pressure Sensor Lost Memory

Occasionally, the tire pressure control module and the tire pressure sensors may experience a loss of communication. In such instances, reprogramming the sensors can be a potential solution. To execute this, a TPMS reset tool is required.

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You Changed Wheels

In colder climates with distinct summer and winter seasons, it is common to switch between summer and winter tires. What you may not realize is that you must reset the TPMS after such a wheel replacement.

Furthermore, if your vehicle has not already been outfitted with these tires, you will need to set the sensors to sync with your vehicle. If the "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" message surfaces post-wheel change, sensor programming may be required.

Low Tire Pressure

In certain car models, the illumination of the "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" light may indicate low tire pressure. Inflating your Ford Explorer tires is a straightforward process, and if you are unsure, you can visit a workshop or a fuel station for assistance.

It is crucial to avoid over-pressurizing your tires, as the "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault" light can also be triggered by excessively high tire air pressure. Ensuring that the tire pressure is precisely correct is essential.

Ford Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Reset Instructions

Part 1: Initiating Tire Pressure Monitoring System Reset Mode

1. Turn the ignition to the 'off' position and leave the key in the ignition.
2. Without starting the engine, switch the key to the 'on' position.
3. Rapidly activate the hazard flashers three times, turning them on and off. Note: Upon entering TPMS reset mode, a single horn sound will occur, accompanied by a message in the information display. If this does not happen, repeat the sequence.

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Part 2: Recalibrating Your Tire Pressure Sensors

1. Reduce the air pressure in the driver's side front tire until the horn sounds once.
2. Reduce the air pressure in the passenger side front tire until the horn sounds once.
3. Decrease the air pressure in the passenger side rear tire until the horn sounds once.
4. Decrease the air pressure in the driver's side rear tire until the horn sounds once.
5. Turn the ignition off.

Note: If, at any stage of the retraining process, 2 short horn beeps are heard, the reset procedure was unsuccessful. Please consider repeating the sequence from Part 1: Initiating TPMS Reset Mode.

Is It Safe to Drive with a Tire Pressure Sensor Fault?

A tire pressure sensor problem can occur when one or more of your car's tires have either too much or too little pressure. Driving with overinflated or underinflated tires endangers yourself, your passengers, and other cars on the road.

Insufficient air pressure in tires increases the likelihood of a tire blowout, as low pressure causes sidewalls to flex. This flexing leads to increased tire surface contact with the road, resulting in friction and heat.

Excessive heat can cause portions of the tire rubber to separate, potentially resulting in a blowout, especially when driving at higher speeds on the interstate. A tire pressure sensor fault could also indicate overinflated tires, which pose their own set of risks.

The TPMS is engineered to offer real-time updates on your Ford Explorer's tire status, aiming to prevent accidents by notifying you of any deviations from the standard.

If your Ford tires are underinflated, or for other reasons, a tire pressure sensor fault will be indicated on the dashboard. It is essential to identify the cause and reset the system. Until the TPMS is functioning correctly again, caution is advised.

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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