2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When a tire pressure monitoring sensor fails, the tire pressure monitoring system control module will recognize a loss in communication and turn on the warning lamp which indicates the failure. This is most often the case. However, the tire pressure monitoring sensor may also fail by reporting incorrect tire pressures. This could cause a flat tire to go unrecognized, or a properly inflated tire to signal a low or high tire pressure warning.

Wheels offer very few symptoms, but these symptoms should never be ignored. Visible cracks on the wheels may appear, especially after hitting a large bump, Most often, this will also be accompanied by loss of air from the tire on that wheel. Also, vibration in the steering wheel is very common when the tire is out of balance, and improper wheel nuts or bolts can cause creaking and popping noises to develop. Again, there are very few symptoms, but they should not be ignored.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in my 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, begin with the simplest and most straightforward step: checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that the readings align with the recommended PSI specified in your vehicle's manual, as incorrect pressure is a common trigger for the warning light. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate a loss of pressure. Don’t overlook the valve stems; check them for any cracks or leaks, as faulty valve stems can also lead to pressure loss. If you find that the tire pressure is low, use a tire inflator to bring the tires up to the recommended levels. After inflating the tires, it may be necessary to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to clear the warning light; refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this. Finally, keep an eye on the warning light after completing these steps. If it remains illuminated, there may be a deeper issue with the TPMS sensors or system that will require professional attention. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.

What are the common causes for the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

When the tire pressure warning light stays illuminated in a 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, it often indicates a few common problems that can be addressed through DIY methods. First, checking the tire pressure is essential; low pressure in any tire can trigger the warning light, so ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the next step is to inspect the tire pressure sensors, as a faulty sensor may not accurately relay information to the vehicle's computer, causing the light to remain on. Additionally, consider the age of the TPMS sensors; if they are older, the batteries may have died, preventing them from functioning correctly. Lastly, examine the wiring connected to the sensors for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this can also lead to system malfunctions. By systematically checking these areas, you can often identify and resolve the issue without needing professional assistance.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, it is crucial to act promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, such as tire blowouts or loss of vehicle control, especially if you are driving on under-inflated tires. Start by checking the tire pressure of all wheels, including the spare, to confirm they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the sensors are malfunctioning due to depleted batteries or other issues, they may fail to provide accurate readings, further complicating the situation. Regular maintenance and monthly checks can help prevent these problems, but if the warning light persists, consider using a scan tool to diagnose faulty sensors or resetting the tire pressure monitoring system. Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your safety on the road but also prevents potential damage to your vehicle's tire pressure monitoring system, saving you from costly repairs down the line.

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2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Tire Pressure Light Issues