2018 Ford F-150 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Ford F-150 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 F-150 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 F-150 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 in my 2018 Ford F-150?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2018 Ford F-150, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simple checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by manually checking the tire pressure in all four tires, including the spare, using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels found in your owner's manual, as incorrect pressure is a common trigger for the warning light. Next, conduct a visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could also be the culprit. If the pressure is correct and no visible damage is found, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) according to the instructions in your vehicle's manual, as this can sometimes resolve the issue. If the warning light remains illuminated, it may indicate a malfunctioning tire pressure sensor, necessitating further inspection or replacement by a professional. Should these steps not yield a solution, visiting a certified mechanic or dealership for a comprehensive diagnosis is advisable to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light in your Ford F-150.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Ford F-150?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2018 Ford F-150, it can be a source of frustration for DIYers looking to resolve the issue. One of the most frequent culprits is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked and adjusted using a tire pressure gauge. If the pressure is within the recommended range and the light persists, the problem may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor. These sensors can malfunction over time, and replacing them may be necessary to restore proper functionality. Additionally, some sensors are battery-operated, and dead batteries can prevent accurate pressure readings, keeping the warning light on. Wiring issues or a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself can also contribute to this problem, often requiring a diagnostic test to identify the root cause. Lastly, if recent tire service has been performed, such as a rotation or replacement, recalibrating the sensors may be needed to reset the warning light. Addressing these common issues promptly is essential for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Ford F-150?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Ford F-150 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When this light remains illuminated, it signals that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This lack of proper tire pressure can lead to dangerous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, neglecting this warning can result in uneven tire wear, significantly shortening the lifespan of your tires and potentially leading to a blowout while driving, which poses a serious threat to your safety and that of others on the road. Additionally, underinflated tires can negatively impact your fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Ignoring the tire pressure warning light may also indicate a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which is designed to alert you to tire issues before they escalate. Therefore, it is essential to check and adjust your tire pressure promptly or consult a professional if the warning persists, ensuring both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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2018 Ford F-150 Tire Pressure Warning Light Solutions