What TPMS does Ford use?
Ford primarily uses direct TPMS in its current models, with wheel-mounted sensors that report tire pressure in real time. Indirect TPMS is uncommon in modern Ford passenger vehicles, though it can appear on older or regional configurations.
To understand what this means for Ford owners and buyers, it’s helpful to distinguish direct TPMS from indirect TPMS. Direct TPMS uses physical sensors inside each tire to measure pressure and transmit data to the vehicle’s computer. Indirect TPMS relies on ABS and wheel-speed data to infer low pressure, without a dedicated tire sensor. The rest of this article explains how Ford applies these approaches across its lineup, who makes the sensors, and what owners should know about maintenance and relearning procedures.
Direct TPMS vs. Indirect TPMS in Ford vehicles
The following overview compares the two approaches as they relate to Ford’s current and recent models.
- Direct TPMS: Each tire carries a sensor that measures pressure (and often temperature) and transmits data wirelessly to the vehicle. A dedicated warning light or display shows which tire is underinflated, and sensors may need replacement when their batteries die or if the seal/valve is damaged.
- Indirect TPMS: No tire-mounted sensor is present. The system infers underinflation from ABS/wheel-speed data and other signals, and relies on a relearn procedure to recognize correct tire sizes after service. It cannot provide actual pressure readings for each tire.
In Ford’s current mainstream lineup, direct TPMS is the standard approach, delivering real-time, per-tire readings. Indirect TPMS remains possible on some older or regional configurations, but it is not the default in most newer Ford passenger vehicles.
Sensors, suppliers, and regional frequencies
Ford sources its direct TPMS sensors from major OEM suppliers, and the exact frequency depends on market region and model year. This affects parts compatibility and the relearn process.
- Suppliers: Schrader and Huf are the primary OEM TPMS sensor suppliers for Ford vehicles; many models use these manufacturers’ sensors, sometimes alongside other approved partners.
- Regional frequencies: in North America, direct TPMS sensors typically operate at 315 MHz. In Europe and many other regions, 433 MHz sensors are common. The exact frequency depends on the vehicle’s model year and market.
- Relearn and programming: after tire service, rotation, or sensor replacement, Ford vehicles usually require a TPMS relearn or sensor programming step via a scan tool or the vehicle’s onboard setup menu to re associate the sensors with the vehicle.
Understanding the sensor source and frequency helps when purchasing replacement sensors or performing maintenance after tire work.
Practical implications for Ford owners
For Ford owners, the shift to direct TPMS means you’ll typically deal with wheel-mounted sensors and battery-powered transmitters. If a TPMS warning light stays on, verify tire pressures first, then consider sensor health or the need for a relearn after service. If you replace a tire or install new sensors, factory procedures or dealer tools are usually required to complete the relearn properly.
How to identify whether your Ford has direct or indirect TPMS
Visual inspection and service notes can help determine the TPMS type. Look for a sensor mounted in the valve stem or inside the wheel rim; absence of a tire sensor often indicates indirect TPMS. If in doubt, check your owner’s manual, the Tire and Loading Information label on the door jamb, or consult a Ford dealership or independent shop with a TPMS scan tool to verify the system type and relearn requirements.
Summary
Ford predominantly uses direct TPMS across its current lineup, deploying wheel-mounted sensors from major OEM suppliers such as Schrader and Huf. Sensor frequency varies by region (315 MHz in North America and 433 MHz in many European markets), and a TPMS relearn is typically required after tire service or sensor replacement. Indirect TPMS is less common in new Ford vehicles but may appear in older or region-specific configurations. For reliability and accuracy, direct TPMS provides real-time tire pressure data and targeted warnings, while indirect TPMS offers a more limited, sensor-free approach.
