1996 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 1996 Ford Explorer: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 1996 Ford Explorer 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 1996 Ford Explorer 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.

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 on my 1996 Ford Explorer?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 1996 Ford Explorer, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels found in your owner's manual or on the sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of the tires for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could lead to air loss. Following this, look for potential leaks by examining the valve stems, tire bead, and tread area; a mixture of soap and water can help reveal leaks through bubbling. If the tire pressure is correct and no visible issues are found, attempt to reset the tire pressure monitoring system as outlined in your owner's manual. However, if the warning light remains illuminated after these steps, it may indicate a faulty sensor or other underlying problems, at which point consulting a mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair is advisable. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1996 Ford Explorer?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1996 Ford Explorer, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked using a tire pressure gauge. Ensuring that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels is crucial for both safety and performance. If the tire pressure is adequate, the issue may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could require replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, the sensor may need recalibration, a process that can typically be found in the vehicle's manual. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, necessitating a more in-depth diagnosis that may be best handled by a professional. Lastly, external interference or obstructions around the sensors can lead to erroneous readings, so it's wise to inspect the area around the tires for any debris or blockages. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light in your Ford Explorer.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 1996 Ford Explorer?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in a 1996 Ford Explorer is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks and potential vehicle damage it poses. Low tire pressure can severely compromise the vehicle's handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly in critical driving situations. Moreover, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also leads to the costly necessity of premature replacements. Additionally, the impact on fuel efficiency cannot be overlooked; underinflated tires can lead to increased fuel consumption, ultimately costing you more at the pump. Perhaps most concerning is the risk of tire damage, as continued operation with low pressure can weaken tire sidewalls and heighten the risk of a blowout. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly check and adjust your tire pressure to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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1996 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Issues