Ford F-150 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Troubleshooting the Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Ford F-150: Causes and Solutions

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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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Ford F-150

When addressing the tire pressure warning light in your Ford F-150, start by checking the tire pressures of all four tires, ensuring they meet the manufacturer's recommended specifications. This simple step can often resolve the issue if the light is triggered by low air pressure. If the pressures are correct, inspect the tires for any visible damage or punctures that could affect inflation. Next, consider the condition of the TPMS sensors; a depleted battery in one of the sensors can cause the warning light to illuminate. If the light continues to stay on or flashes, it may indicate a malfunction within the TPMS receiver module or a faulty sensor. In such cases, using an OBD-II scanner can help identify specific error codes related to the TPMS, guiding you toward the necessary repairs. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Ford F-150

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in a Ford F-150, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may trigger this alert. One frequent issue is simply low tire pressure, which can occur due to natural air loss or temperature fluctuations, especially in colder months. Additionally, tire damage such as punctures or sidewall issues can lead to pressure loss, prompting the warning light to activate. Another potential culprit is a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor, which may fail to accurately read the tire pressure or could be damaged during tire changes or repairs. Furthermore, improper tire installation or misalignment can also cause the warning light to illuminate, as the system may detect discrepancies in tire pressure across the vehicle. By being aware of these common problems, you can more effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your Ford F-150, ensuring a safer driving experience.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Ford F-150?

When the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light remains illuminated in your Ford F-150, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, such as reduced vehicle handling, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose significant risks to both you and other drivers. The TPMS light may indicate low tire pressure, which can compromise traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, a malfunctioning sensor or depleted battery could lead to inaccurate readings, leaving you unaware of potentially dangerous tire conditions. By taking the time to check your tire pressures, inspect the TPMS sensors, and ensure that all components are functioning correctly, you can prevent further complications and maintain optimal vehicle performance. Addressing these issues not only enhances your safety but also prolongs the life of your tires and vehicle, making it essential to act swiftly when the TPMS warning light stays on.

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