How to fix a Ford tire pressure sensor fault?

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) fault in a Ford is usually caused by a failing wheel sensor or the need to relearn the system after a tire change or rotation. Start by verifying tire pressures, inspecting the sensors and wheels, and then performing a relearn or replacing a faulty sensor if needed. For model-specific steps, consult your owner’s manual or a Ford-certified technician.

Understanding the Ford TPMS

Most modern Ford vehicles use a direct TPMS, meaning each wheel carries a small sensor that transmits tire pressure data to the car’s computer. In some Ford models, indirect TPMS approaches can exist, using ABS wheel speed data to infer pressure differences. Direct TPMS generally provides the most accurate readings and requires a relearn after sensor replacement or tire service.

Direct vs indirect TPMS

Direct TPMS uses wheel-mounted transmitters and a receiver in the vehicle. Indirect TPMS relies on ABS/Wheel Speed Sensor data to estimate pressure changes without a physical sensor in every tire. Ford’s newer lineups predominantly employ direct TPMS, which means you’ll often interact with the sensors themselves when diagnosing faults.

Common causes of Ford TPMS faults

TPMS faults are frequently triggered by sensor or battery issues, but maintenance activities, tire repairs, or sensor damage can also provoke a fault. Here are the typical culprits observed on Ford models in recent years.

Typical triggers

• Weak or dead battery inside a wheel sensor (battery life commonly 5–10 years).


• Damaged, corroded, or leaking sensor valve stems or seals.


• Damaged wheel sensors from impact, curb hits, or during tire service.


• Low tire pressure in one or more tires, prompting a fault or need for relearn.


• Failure to complete a TPMS relearn after rotating tires or replacing a tire.


• Faulty TPMS control module or wiring.

When the light comes on, it doesn’t always mean a sensor is dead. It often reflects a discrepancy between the actual tire pressure and what your placard recommends, or a sensor that hasn’t been properly learned by the vehicle.

Diagnosing a TPMS fault on a Ford

To identify the exact cause, you’ll typically use a TPMS-capable scan tool to read stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and obtain sensor IDs. Then you compare these results with the actual tire pressures to determine whether the issue is sensor-related or pressure-related.

Diagnosis steps you can perform

• Use a TPMS-capable scan tool or OBD-II scanner to retrieve TPMS DTCs and sensor IDs. This helps pinpoint which wheel sensor or circuit is reporting a fault.


• Check each tire with a reliable gauge and compare pressures to the vehicle’s placard (found on the door jamb or owner’s manual). If one or more tires are below spec, adjust to the recommended pressure and recheck the system.


• Inspect wheels and tires for damage, corrosion on sensor or valve stems, or signs of air leaks around the valve stems. Look for recent tire service that might have disturbed a sensor.


• If a tire was recently replaced or serviced, confirm that the TPMS sensor IDs were programmed or relearned in the vehicle's system.


• If all sensors appear healthy and pressures are correct, prepare for a relearn attempt or sensor replacement as the next step.

Conclusion: A structured diagnostic sequence helps distinguish between a simple pressure check, a sensor fault, or a need for system relearn/reprogramming.

Fixing a Ford TPMS fault

Depending on what the diagnostics reveal, you may only need to relearn the sensors or you may need to replace a faulty sensor. The following sections outline relearn options and sensor replacement steps.

TPMS relearn options for Ford

Ford models support multiple relearn methods. The exact approach depends on your year and trim, but the options below cover the common paths used across many vehicles.

• Drive-to-relearn: After pressures are corrected, drive at a steady speed (typically around 50 mph / 80 km/h or higher) for about 10 minutes. The system should pick up sensor IDs and complete the relearn automatically on many Ford models.


• Dash/menu relearn: Some Ford vehicles offer a TPMS relearn option in the instrument cluster or FordPass/Sync menu. Navigate to Vehicle Settings > TPMS > Relearn (or similar) and follow the on-screen prompts. A subsequent highway drive is usually recommended to finalize the relearn.


• Scan-tool relearn: A professional or consumer-grade TPMS scan tool can manually trigger the relearn and program the specific sensor IDs to the vehicle’s TPMS control module.

Note: Procedure varies by model/year. If you replaced a sensor or wheels, performing a relearn is almost always required to register the new sensor IDs in the system.

Replacing a faulty TPMS sensor

If a wheel sensor’s battery is dead or the sensor is damaged, replacement is necessary. The process generally requires specialized tools and steps:

• Identify the faulty sensor using the diagnostic tool or by process of elimination (starting with a wheel that has abnormal readings).


• Deflate the tire, remove the tire from the rim, and install a new direct TPMS sensor (which includes a new valve stem). This step typically requires a tire machine and proper torque specs for the stem.


• Program or relearn the new sensor ID with a scan tool or through the vehicle’s relearn method described above.


• Inflate the tire to the correct pressure and perform a final relearn if the vehicle requires it.

Conclusion: Replacing a sensor is common as batteries age. A correct relearn after sensor installation is essential for reliable TPMS operation.

Costs and timelines

Costs vary by model, whether you do it yourself, and whether you need to replace one or more sensors. Here’s a general sense of what to expect.

• Direct TPMS sensor units: roughly $60–$100 each (parts only; price varies by brand and vehicle fit).


• Labor and relearn: typically $50–$150 per wheel at a shop; some tire centers include relearn with tire service.


• Optional: diagnostic scan tool usage or dealership fees if using advanced programming or model-specific procedures.

Having a reputable tire shop or Ford dealer perform the work can ensure proper sensor identification, correct programming, and a guaranteed relearn, especially on newer models with more complex TPMS configurations.

Summary

A Ford TPMS fault usually points to a sensor or a relearn issue. Start with basic tire pressures and visual inspection, then diagnose with a TPMS tool to identify the exact fault code and wheel. If a sensor is dead or damaged, replace it and perform a relearn. If the fault persists after a relearn, seek professional help to ensure the system is calibrated correctly and safe to drive. Keeping tires inflated to the recommended pressure and scheduling periodic TPMS checks can help prevent future faults.

How do you fix a tire pressure sensor fault?

To fix a tire pressure sensor fault, first check and inflate all tires to the correct pressure, then attempt a manual reset using the button or infotainment system, or by driving for 10-15 minutes at a consistent speed like 50 mph. If the light persists, the sensor is likely faulty and needs replacement, which involves a professional mechanic dismounting the tire to access and replace the sensor, a process similar to the one described in this YouTube video.
 
1. Inflate your tires to the correct pressure 

• Check the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. 
• Inflate all tires, including the spare if it has a sensor, to the correct pressure, ideally when the tires are cold. 

2. Attempt a TPMS reset 

• Manual reset: Turn the ignition to the 'ON' position without starting the engine. Press and hold the TPMS reset button (usually under the steering wheel or in the glove box) until the light blinks three times. Some vehicles may require navigating through the infotainment system to a "TPMS calibration" or "reset" option.
• Automatic reset: Drive the vehicle for at least 5-15 minutes at a consistent speed of 50 mph to allow the system to self-calibrate. 

3. Address a persistent fault 

• If the warning light remains on after resetting and driving, the sensor is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. 
• Faulty sensors are often due to a dead battery, which has a lifespan of about 7–10 years. 
• Replacing a TPMS sensor requires a professional to dismount the tire from the wheel, replace the sensor, and then likely use a specialized tool to program or relearn the new sensor to the vehicle's system. 
• A professional can also use a TPMS reset tool to diagnose the exact issue, which may be due to a faulty sensor or external interference. 

This video explains how to replace a TPMS sensor: 48sRepair GeekYouTube · Dec 25, 2020

How much does it cost to fix a tire pressure sensor fault?

Fixing a tire pressure sensor fault typically costs between $50 and $250 per sensor, depending on parts and labor costs, but the total can be higher. The final price depends on the type of vehicle, the specific sensor required, and where you have the work done. It's often best to replace all four sensors at once, especially if their batteries are old, which could add to the overall cost but prevent future replacements. 
Cost breakdown

• Part cost: A single TPMS sensor can range from about $20$ 20$20 to $150$ 150$150 or more, with options available from auto parts stores or dealerships. Dealership parts are often more expensive but may be of higher quality. 
• Labor cost: Professional installation typically costs between $50$ 50$50 and $150$ 150$150 for labor. This cost includes the work of removing the tire, replacing the sensor, and rebalancing the tire. 
• Total cost:
  • Single sensor: Expect to pay anywhere from $50$ 50$50 to $250$ 250$250. 
  • Four sensors: Replacing all four can cost between $100$ 100$100 and $200$ 200$200 in labor alone, plus the cost of the new sensors. 

Tips to save money

• Replace when getting new tires: If you are due for new tires, replace the TPMS sensors at the same time. This can save you a future labor charge since the tires will already be off the wheels. 
• Consider a full set: Since the sensors' batteries tend to die around the same time, replacing all four at once is often a cost-effective long-term solution. 

How to clear tire pressure sensor fault Ford?

To clear a Ford tire pressure sensor fault, first ensure all tires are at the correct pressure. Then, use the vehicle's menu to activate the TPMS recalibration mode and train each sensor by adjusting its air pressure until the horn beeps, or if your model has a dedicated reset button, use it. If these steps fail, driving at a high speed or disconnecting the battery are other options.
 
Method 1: Use the TPMS reset button or menu (most common) 
This video demonstrates how to reset the TPMS using the vehicle's menu: 57sThe Driver ModYouTube · Jan 5, 2022

1. Inflate tires: Make sure all tires, including the spare, are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. 
2. Activate reset mode: 
   • Turn the ignition to the "On" position but do not start the engine. 
   • Press and hold the TPMS reset button, typically located under the steering wheel, until the TPMS light blinks three times. 
   • Alternatively, use the vehicle's infotainment or instrument cluster menu to find and activate the TPMS recalibration/training mode. 
3. Train the sensors: 
   • Start the vehicle and drive for at least 20 minutes to allow the sensors to retrain. 
   • For some models, after activating the mode, you must drive the vehicle and adjust the pressure of each tire individually until the horn beeps. Start with the front-left tire and proceed clockwise. 

Method 2: Drive at high speed

1. Ensure all tires are correctly inflated.
2. Drive at or above 50 mph for about 10 minutes.
3. The system may reset itself the next time you turn the car on. 

Method 3: Disconnect the battery 
You can watch this video to learn how to disconnect the battery and reset the TPMS system: 56sThe OCD RepairmanYouTube · Nov 20, 2023

1. Ensure all tires are at the correct pressure. 
2. With the vehicle turned off, disconnect the positive battery cable using a wrench. 
3. Turn the vehicle on and honk the horn for three seconds to discharge any remaining power. 
4. Turn the vehicle off and reconnect the battery cable. 

Method 4: Use a magnet for some models 
This method is used for some Ford models to retrain the sensors manually and may require a special tool to activate the mode. 

1. Turn the key to the "Run" position three times, ending in "Run," and press and hold the brake pedal. 
2. Turn the key to the "Off" position. 
3. Turn the key to the "Run" position three times, ending in "Run". 
4. The message center should display "Train Left-Front Tire". 
5. Place a magnet on the valve stem of the left-front tire until the horn beeps. 
6. Repeat for the other three tires in a clockwise sequence, ending with the spare. 

What does it mean when a tire pressure sensor faults on a Ford?

A "tire pressure sensor fault" on a Ford means the vehicle's computer has detected an issue with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which can be a problem with a specific sensor or the overall system. This could be caused by a dead battery in a sensor, a physically damaged sensor, or a communication error, and often triggers a warning light on the dashboard. 
What the fault means

• Malfunctioning sensor: One of the individual sensors inside a tire may have failed due to a dead battery, physical damage from hitting a curb, or corrosion. 
• Communication error: The system might have a problem communicating with one or more of the sensors, which can be caused by a faulty receiver or other electrical issues. 
• Low pressure warning: The message could be a simple (though poorly phrased) indicator that one or more tires are significantly underinflated, despite the sensor appearing to work. 

What to do

1. Check tire pressure manually: Use a reliable gauge to check the pressure in all four tires. Inflate them to the pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. 
2. Reset the system: If the light came on after inflating the tires, you may need to reset the system. The method varies by Ford model, but often involves a button on the dashboard or a procedure in the vehicle's menu. A common method is to turn the ignition to "on" (without starting) and press the hazard light button six times. 
3. Train the sensors: After a tire rotation, the sensors need to be "trained" to the new tire locations. Some models have a specific reset procedure for this, as seen in this YouTube video and this YouTube video. 
4. Seek professional diagnosis: If the issue persists, a tire shop or dealership can use a specialized tool to diagnose which sensor is failing, which can cost around $120 per sensor including parts and labor. 

Important considerations

• Safety risk: Driving with faulty sensors can be dangerous as you won't be alerted to a dangerous drop in tire pressure. 
• Battery life: The batteries in these sensors have a limited lifespan and may need replacement. 
• Manual monitoring: Even with a faulty system, you can still drive with your vehicle, but you will have to monitor tire pressure manually and regularly.