It always seems to happen when you least expect it. You start your Ford Explorer, the dashboard lights up, and suddenly the message “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” appears. This warning can be confusing for many drivers, especially when the tires look perfectly fine. In most cases, it doesn’t mean your tires are flat but rather that your vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is not working as it should.
The TPMS in your Ford Explorer is designed to monitor air pressure in each tire and alert you if one or more tires are underinflated. When a fault occurs, the system cannot read or transmit correct data from the sensors, which may lead to inaccurate pressure readings or a blinking TPMS light. Understanding what triggers this warning can save you time, money, and frustration.
In this complete guide, you will learn what causes the Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault, how to identify the problem, and the most effective ways to fix and reset the system. Whether you plan to solve it yourself or visit a mechanic, this article will help you make informed and confident decisions.
Contents
What Does the “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” Message Mean on a Ford Explorer?
When the “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” message appears on your Ford Explorer, it signals that something is wrong within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, not necessarily with the tires themselves. The TPMS uses individual sensors placed inside each wheel to track real-time tire pressure and send data to the vehicle’s control module. If the system stops receiving accurate information, it triggers the warning light or displays a fault message on the dashboard.
It is important to understand the difference between a simple “Low Tire Pressure” alert and a “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault.” The first one usually means one or more tires need air. The second one means the TPMS cannot read data from one or more sensors due to battery failure, signal loss, or physical damage. This issue affects how the system monitors safety and fuel efficiency, so it should never be ignored.
Drivers may notice several symptoms when this fault occurs. The TPMS light might blink for several seconds before staying solid, tire pressure readings may disappear from the display, or the system might show incorrect values. In newer Ford Explorer models, these signs usually point to a communication error or failing sensor battery that needs replacement.
Common Causes of Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
The Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault message is one of the most common alerts that drivers encounter, and while it can seem alarming, the reasons behind it are usually easy to understand once you know how the system works. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System, or TPMS, relies on small sensors inside each wheel that constantly measure air pressure and send signals to the vehicle’s computer. When any of these sensors fail to communicate properly, the system displays a fault message to warn the driver that something is wrong.
One of the main reasons this warning appears is a weak or dead sensor battery. Each TPMS sensor is powered by a built-in battery that lasts several years, but as it reaches the end of its lifespan, the signal becomes unstable or stops entirely. Corrosion or physical damage to the sensor can also cause communication errors. Moisture, road salt, and high humidity can deteriorate the metal valve stem or interfere with the sensor’s internal components, especially in older vehicles or those driven in harsh climates.
In many cases, the message shows up right after new tires are installed or rotated. This happens when the system has not been properly relearned to recognize the new sensor positions, causing the computer to lose track of which sensor belongs to each tire. Sometimes, the issue comes from the TPMS control module itself or from using aftermarket wheels or sensors that operate on different frequencies. All of these situations can confuse the system and trigger the same warning. Understanding these common causes helps drivers pinpoint the real issue quickly, saving both time and unnecessary repair costs while keeping the Ford Explorer’s safety systems working as intended.
How to Fix a Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
Fixing a Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault does not always require a trip to the dealership. In many cases, you can diagnose and solve the issue yourself with simple tools and a few careful checks. Follow these steps to restore your TPMS system and clear the fault message.
Step 1: Check Tire Pressure Manually
Start with the basics. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in all four tires, including the spare if equipped. Compare the readings with the recommended PSI level found on the driver’s door frame sticker or in the owner’s manual. If one or more tires are underinflated or overinflated, adjust them to the correct pressure. Sometimes, simply correcting air pressure can reset the system automatically after a short drive.
Step 2: Inspect the TPMS Sensors
Visually inspect each tire’s valve stem, which houses the sensor. Look for cracks, corrosion, or any physical damage. If you recently had new tires installed, check that the shop did not accidentally damage the sensor during the process. Cleaning the valve stems and ensuring tight, undamaged caps can also help maintain good signal transmission.
Step 3: Relearn or Reset the TPMS System
When tire positions are changed or new sensors are installed, the system must relearn their IDs. To do this, turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine, then press and release the brake pedal. Turn the ignition off and repeat this step two more times, ending with the ignition in the “On” position. After that, press the brake pedal again and start the engine. The horn may sound once to confirm the relearn mode has begun. You can then activate each sensor in order using a TPMS tool, starting from the front left tire and moving clockwise.
Step 4: Replace Faulty Sensors If Needed
If the fault persists, one or more sensors may need replacement. Each Ford Explorer TPMS sensor typically costs between fifty and one hundred dollars, depending on the model year and brand. Choose sensors that are OEM-compatible to avoid communication errors. Replacing all four at once is often more efficient, especially if the vehicle is older and the sensors are near the end of their lifespan.
Step 5: Perform a Professional Diagnostic
If the system still shows the fault message after all previous steps, the TPMS module itself may require attention. At this point, using professional diagnostic tools such as Forscan or visiting a certified Ford service center is recommended. Technicians can read detailed fault codes, update TPMS software, or test signal communication between the module and sensors.
How to Reset Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
Resetting the Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault is an important step that helps your vehicle recognize the correct tire pressure and clear the warning light. The process allows the system to communicate again with each tire pressure sensor and restore accurate readings. Although newer Ford Explorer models can relearn automatically, performing a manual reset ensures that the system functions properly after any tire or sensor change.
To begin, turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine. Press and release the brake pedal once, then switch the ignition off. Repeat this step two more times, ending with the key in the “On” position. Press the brake pedal again and start the engine. The horn may sound once, which means your vehicle has entered the TPMS relearn mode. When this happens, go to each tire in order: front left, front right, rear right, and rear left. Hold a TPMS activation tool near each valve stem until the horn honks briefly. This confirms that the system has recognized that tire’s sensor. When all four sensors have been triggered, the horn will sound twice to confirm that the reset is complete.
If your vehicle does not enter the relearn mode automatically, inflate all four tires to the recommended pressure and drive at a steady speed above 30 miles per hour for about ten minutes. This driving pattern allows the sensors to send updated pressure data and often clears the fault message. Advanced users can also reset the TPMS using Forscan software and an OBD-II scanner, which directly accesses the system’s control module. Once the reset is finished, the dashboard warning light should turn off, and your Ford Explorer will once again display accurate tire pressure information for every wheel.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Future TPMS Faults
Preventing the Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault is easier than dealing with it after it appears. With simple habits and regular maintenance, you can extend the life of the sensors and keep your Tire Pressure Monitoring System working smoothly. Start by checking your tire pressure at least once a month, especially before long trips or when temperatures change drastically. Fluctuating weather can cause the air inside the tires to expand or contract, leading to false readings or unnecessary warnings. Keeping your tires inflated to the recommended level not only prevents TPMS errors but also improves fuel efficiency and tire longevity.
It is also important to clean the valve stems regularly and inspect them for signs of corrosion or damage. Road salt, moisture, and dirt can build up over time, weakening the valve stems that hold the sensors in place. When getting new tires, always remind the technician to handle the sensors carefully and to perform a proper TPMS relearn procedure afterward. Skipping this step is one of the most common reasons why the system fails to recognize new sensors.
If your Ford Explorer is several years old, consider replacing the TPMS sensors proactively before the batteries die. Sensors usually last around five to ten years, depending on driving conditions. Using original equipment sensors or high-quality replacements will ensure full compatibility with the TPMS module and help you avoid recurring errors. Finally, avoid using tire sealants or harsh chemicals inside the tires, as these products can damage the sensors. By following these simple maintenance practices, you can reduce the risk of future TPMS faults and keep your Ford Explorer’s safety systems operating at their best every time you drive.
Conclusion
The Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Sensor Fault may seem like a small issue, but ignoring it can lead to inaccurate pressure readings, uneven tire wear, and reduced safety on the road. By understanding how the Tire Pressure Monitoring System works and learning to identify the common causes of this fault, you can respond quickly and avoid unnecessary repairs. Most of the time, a simple reset or sensor inspection is enough to clear the warning and restore normal operation.
Following proper maintenance routines makes a big difference. Regularly checking your tire pressure, keeping valve stems clean, and replacing worn sensors on time will help prevent the fault from returning. When needed, using a TPMS activation tool or Forscan software gives you full control over the system’s reset process, saving you time and service costs.
Your Ford Explorer was designed to keep you informed and safe. Paying attention to dashboard warnings and addressing them early ensures that every journey remains smooth and worry-free. If this guide helped you solve your Tire Pressure Sensor Fault, share it with other Ford Explorer owners who might be facing the same problem and help them keep their vehicles performing at their best.