2015 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2015 Ford Explorer and How to Resolve Them

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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 2015 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 2015 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.

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.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

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 2015 Ford Explorer?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2015 Ford Explorer, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simple checks before moving on to more complex solutions. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your vehicle's manual. This initial step is crucial, as incorrect tire pressure is a common cause of the warning light activation. Next, inspect each tire for visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tires appear to be in good condition and properly inflated, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as outlined in your vehicle's manual, as this can sometimes resolve false warnings. Additionally, don't overlook the spare tire; low pressure in this tire can also trigger the warning light. If, after these checks, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis, as there could be underlying issues with the TPMS or other components of the vehicle. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2015 Ford Explorer?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2015 Ford Explorer, it can signal several common issues that DIYers can tackle. The most prevalent cause is low tire pressure; therefore, checking each tire and inflating them to the recommended levels is a crucial first step. If the pressure is adequate, the next possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor, which may need replacement if it fails to provide accurate readings. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can occur, requiring a recalibration process to ensure the sensors are functioning correctly. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, necessitating an inspection of wiring and connections. Lastly, environmental factors, such as extreme temperature fluctuations, can impact tire pressure, making it essential to monitor tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal changes. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light concern in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2015 Ford Explorer that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2015 Ford Explorer that remains illuminated is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, low tire pressure can significantly compromise your vehicle's safety, affecting handling and braking capabilities, which increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, neglecting this warning can lead to uneven tire wear, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your tires and necessitating costly replacements. Furthermore, under-inflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. The risk of damage to both the tires and rims also escalates if the issue is ignored, potentially resulting in more extensive repairs. Lastly, a persistent warning light may indicate a malfunction in the tire pressure monitoring system itself, which requires immediate attention to ensure accurate tire pressure readings. Therefore, it is imperative to address the tire pressure warning light promptly to safeguard your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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