How to wake up a new Ford TPMS sensor?
If you've recently replaced or installed a new Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor on your Ford vehicle, you might notice that it doesn't immediately start working. This is because new TPMS sensors often need to be "woken up" or activated to communicate with your car's onboard system. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to wake up a new Ford TPMS sensor and ensure it's functioning correctly.
What is a TPMS Sensor and Why Does It Need Activation?
The TPMS sensor is a small device located inside your tire that monitors tire pressure and sends this information to your car's dashboard. When you install a new sensor, it is in a "sleep" mode to conserve battery life. Activating or waking up the sensor allows it to start transmitting data to your vehicle's TPMS system.
Steps to Wake Up a New Ford TPMS Sensor
Follow these steps to activate your new Ford TPMS sensor. These steps are specific to Ford vehicles and may vary slightly depending on the model and year.
Step 1: Enter TPMS Learning Mode
Start by putting your vehicle into TPMS learning mode. To do this, turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (do not start the engine). Then, press and release the brake pedal. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position, then back to "ON" three times, ending in the "ON" position. You should hear a horn chirp, indicating the vehicle is in learning mode.
Step 2: Use a TPMS Activation Tool
A TPMS activation tool is required to wake up the sensor. Place the tool near the sidewall of the tire, close to the valve stem. Activate the tool, and you should hear a horn chirp, confirming the sensor has been recognized. Repeat this process for all four tires in the order specified by your vehicle's manual (usually front left, front right, rear right, rear left).
Step 3: Verify the Sensors
Once all sensors have been activated, the vehicle will emit a final horn chirp to indicate the process is complete. Check your dashboard to ensure the tire pressure readings are displayed correctly.
Step 4: Drive the Vehicle
If the sensors still don't appear to be working, drive the vehicle for about 10-15 minutes at speeds above 20 mph. This can help the system recalibrate and recognize the new sensors.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the TPMS activation tool is compatible with Ford vehicles.
- Double-check the battery life of the new TPMS sensor before installation.
- Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- If the process fails, visit a professional auto repair shop for assistance.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you're unable to wake up the TPMS
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I've seen my fair share of issues with Ford vehicles and their Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors. If you've recently had a new TPMS sensor installed on your Ford, you may be wondering how to "wake it up" and get it communicating with your vehicle's computer. In this article, I'll walk you through the steps to get that new sensor up and running.
What is a TPMS Sensor?
A TPMS sensor is a small device installed in each of your vehicle's tires that monitors the air pressure. When the pressure drops below a certain level, the sensor sends a signal to your car's computer, triggering the TPMS warning light on your dashboard. This helps you identify and address low tire pressure issues before they become a safety hazard.
Waking Up a New TPMS Sensor
When you have a new TPMS sensor installed, it needs to be "learned" or "relearned" by your vehicle's computer. Here's how to do it:
- Inflate all tires to the recommended pressure - Check your owner's manual or the driver's side door jamb sticker for the proper tire pressure.
- Drive the vehicle for 10-20 minutes - This allows the new sensor to communicate with the vehicle's computer and get recognized.
- Check the TPMS warning light - If the light turns off, the new sensor has been successfully learned. If the light remains on, you may need to perform a TPMS relearn procedure.
Performing a TPMS Relearn Procedure
If the TPMS warning light stays on after driving, you'll need to perform a relearn procedure. This varies slightly by Ford model, but generally involves the following steps:
- Park the vehicle and turn off the engine
- Locate the TPMS relearn button - This is usually found under the dashboard or in the engine bay.
- Press and hold the relearn button for 5-10 seconds until the TPMS warning light flashes.
- Drive the vehicle for 10-20 minutes to allow the new sensor to be recognized.
- Check the TPMS warning light - If it turns off, the new sensor has been successfully relearned.
If you're still having trouble getting the new TPMS sensor to work, I recommend consulting your Ford owner's manual or contacting a professional auto repair technician for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to wake up new TPMS sensors?
Or Warehouse to activate brand new sensors install them onto. The wheels inflate the tires to normal operational. Pressure. And then try to trigger them with the TPMS.
Do new Ford TPMS sensors need to be programmed?
Vehicle relearn is a standard TPMS service step
Every replacement TPMS sensor must be “relearned” to the vehicle following the prescribed OE relearn procedure, regardless of whether it is an OE or aftermarket sensor.
How to wake up TPMS sensors?
Or Warehouse to activate brand new sensors install them onto. The wheels inflate the tires to normal operational. Pressure. And then try to trigger them with the TPMS.
How do you train a new Ford TPMS?
Program TPMS
- 1) Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended psi.
- 2) Turn ignition to the on position.
- 3) Push the hazard light button 6 times.
- 4) Release air pressure in the front left tire until you hear the horn honk.
- 5) Release air pressure in the right front tire until you hear the horn honk.
How do you activate a TPMS sensor on a Ford?
And that right there signaled that that it read the correct pressure and it's programmed. Then you go to the front. Right. There you go then you go to the rear right.
How do you wake up a new Ford TPMS sensor?
Or Warehouse to activate brand new sensors install them onto. The wheels inflate the tires to normal operational. Pressure. And then try to trigger them with the TPMS.
How do I wake up my new TPMS?
Or Warehouse to activate brand new sensors install them onto. The wheels inflate the tires to normal operational. Pressure. And then try to trigger them with the TPMS.
How to activate new TPMS sensor without tool Ford?
Train TPMS with no learning tool
- 1) Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended psi.
- 2) Turn ignition to the on position.
- 3) Push the hazard light button 6 times.
- 4) Release air pressure in the front left tire until you hear the horn honk.
Do TPMS sensors need to be activated?
Yes, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors typically need to be activated after they are installed in the vehicle's tires. Activation is the process of establishing communication between the sensors and the vehicle's on-board computer system.
How to activate a new tire pressure sensor?
How To Activate Your TPMS Sensor?
- Install your new TPMS in your wheel.
- Inflate them to ideal air pressure.
- Trigger them with your TPMS tool.