2020 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2020 Ford Explorer

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 Ford Explorer?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2020 Ford Explorer, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin 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 tires are simply underinflated. 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. After making any necessary adjustments, take your Explorer for a short drive; the system may require a brief period to recalibrate and turn off the warning light. If the light remains illuminated despite these efforts, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a thorough diagnosis, as persistent issues could point to sensor malfunctions or other underlying problems. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2020 Ford Explorer?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2020 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 manufacturer's recommended levels, which can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver's door. If the tire pressure is adequate, the next possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor; if this is the case, replacing the sensor may be necessary. Additionally, the sensors might require recalibration to ensure they are providing accurate readings, a process that can often be done by following the vehicle's manual. Electrical problems, such as damaged wiring or blown fuses, can also trigger the warning light, so a careful inspection of the electrical components is advisable. Lastly, if the tire pressure monitoring system itself is malfunctioning, it may require professional diagnosis and repair. By methodically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light concern in your Ford Explorer.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2020 Ford Explorer that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2020 Ford Explorer is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that the tire pressure may be dangerously low, which can severely compromise vehicle safety. Low tire pressure can lead to diminished handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly in critical driving situations. Furthermore, neglecting this warning can result in uneven tire wear, significantly shortening the lifespan of your tires and raising the risk of a blowout while driving. Additionally, underinflated tires can negatively impact fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. It’s also essential to consider that a persistent warning light may indicate a malfunction within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which could require immediate attention to ensure accurate monitoring of tire pressure. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly investigate and resolve any issues related to the tire pressure warning light to safeguard your safety, enhance vehicle performance, and maintain the integrity of your tires.

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