1999 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 1999 Ford Explorer and How to Resolve Them

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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 1999 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 1999 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 1999 Ford Explorer?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 1999 Ford Explorer, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable gauge; this is crucial as low tire pressure is a common trigger for the warning light. If you find any tires under-inflated, adjust them to the recommended levels. Next, inspect the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for any visible signs of malfunction, and check your dashboard for any related warning lights or specific messages, such as "Tire Pressure Sensor Fault." If the tire pressure is adequate and no obvious issues are found, consider the possibility of sensor problems, including checking if the battery in the pressure sensor is depleted. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to seek professional help from a mechanic or dealership to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light on your vehicle.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 1999 Ford Explorer?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 1999 Ford Explorer, it can indicate several common issues that are manageable for a DIY enthusiast. The first step is to check the tire pressure in all four tires, as low pressure is the most frequent cause of the warning light. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual. If the pressure is adequate, the next possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need to be replaced if it is malfunctioning. Additionally, the sensors might require recalibration to ensure they are providing accurate readings; this can often be done by following the instructions in the vehicle's manual. Electrical problems, such as damaged wiring or blown fuses, can also lead to the warning light staying on, so inspecting these components is essential. Lastly, performing a system reset of the tire pressure monitoring system can sometimes resolve the issue. By methodically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix the tire pressure warning light in your Ford Explorer, ensuring a safer driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 1999 Ford Explorer?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in your 1999 Ford Explorer is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety concerns, as low tire pressure significantly impacts vehicle handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly in emergency situations. Furthermore, neglecting to check your tire pressure can result in uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also raises the risk of a blowout while driving. Additionally, underinflated tires can severely affect your vehicle's fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Proper tire pressure is essential for optimal vehicle performance, ensuring better traction, stability, and an overall improved driving experience. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly check and adjust your tire pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications to maintain safety and efficiency on the road.

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1999 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Solutions