2018 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 Ford Explorer for Safe Driving Conditions

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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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Ford Explorer?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2018 Ford Explorer, begin with a straightforward 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 they are inflated to the levels recommended in your vehicle's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the pressure is simply low. 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, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as outlined in your vehicle's manual, as this can sometimes clear false warnings. Additionally, examine the TPMS sensors on each tire to confirm they are functioning correctly and free from damage. If, after these steps, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Ford Explorer?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2018 Ford Explorer, it often indicates underlying issues that can be addressed through simple DIY checks. The most prevalent cause is low tire pressure, which can result from natural air loss, punctures, or temperature fluctuations. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for both safety and performance. If the pressure is adequate, the next step is to inspect the tire pressure sensors, as a malfunctioning sensor can fail to relay accurate information to the vehicle's system. Additionally, consider the possibility of dead sensor batteries, which may require replacement to restore functionality. Lastly, examine the vehicle's electrical system for any wiring issues or blown fuses that could disrupt the tire pressure monitoring system. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the issue of the tire pressure warning light staying on.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2018 Ford Explorer that stays on?

When the tire pressure warning light on your 2018 Ford Explorer remains illuminated, it is essential to take immediate action. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety risks, as improper tire pressure significantly affects vehicle handling and braking, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also raises the risk of a blowout while driving. Furthermore, neglecting to address tire pressure issues can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, resulting in higher fuel costs over time. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is designed to alert you to these issues, and if the warning light persists, it may indicate a malfunction that requires professional attention. Therefore, it is crucial to check and adjust your tire pressure promptly, ensuring your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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