1999 Ford Ranger Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 1999 Ford Ranger and How to Resolve Them

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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 1999 Ford Ranger 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 tire 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 1999 Ford Ranger 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 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 1999 Ford Ranger?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 1999 Ford Ranger, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable gauge; this is crucial as incorrect pressure can often trigger the warning light. If you find any tires are below the recommended PSI, inflate them to the proper level. Next, visually inspect the tires for any signs of damage or wear, as well as the pressure sensors, which could also be malfunctioning. Additionally, ensure that the battery in the pressure sensor is functioning properly, as a depleted battery can cause the warning light to activate. If the light persists, investigate the TPMS receiver module for any potential malfunctions. Finally, if you suspect that a pressure sensor may be damaged, consider replacing it to resolve the issue. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light on your Ford Ranger.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to remain on in a 1999 Ford Ranger?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1999 Ford Ranger, it can be attributed to several common problems that are relatively easy to diagnose and address. First and foremost, low tire pressure is the most frequent culprit; checking each tire for proper inflation is essential, as even one under-inflated tire can trigger the warning light. Additionally, tire leaks, whether from punctures or damage, can cause air to escape, leading to a persistent warning. It's also important to inspect the wheels themselves, as leaks in the wheel rims can similarly affect tire pressure. Another potential issue lies within the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors; if these sensors are malfunctioning or if their batteries are dying, they may fail to provide accurate readings, resulting in the warning light staying on. Lastly, environmental factors such as significant temperature changes can impact tire pressure, particularly in colder weather, which may cause the light to illuminate until the tires warm up during driving. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue of a continuously lit tire pressure warning light.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 1999 Ford Ranger?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1999 Ford Ranger, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, including reduced traction and increased tire wear, which may ultimately result in a blowout. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the light persists after correcting the pressure, inspect the tires for any leaks that could compromise their integrity. Additionally, faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors may be the culprit, so consider having them tested and replaced if necessary. Once you have confirmed that the tires are in good condition, you can reset the TPMS light, which often involves locating the reset button under the dashboard. In some cases, a software update may be required to resolve persistent issues, so checking with a dealer for any updates is advisable. By taking these steps promptly, you can maintain your vehicle's safety and performance, ensuring a smoother and more secure driving experience.

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1999 Ford Ranger Tire Pressure Warning Light Solutions