2012 Ford Taurus Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2012 Ford Taurus: Causes and Solutions

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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 2012 Ford Taurus 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 2012 Ford Taurus 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 2012 Ford Taurus?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2012 Ford Taurus, begin with a thorough check of the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Ensure that each tire is inflated to the recommended levels specified in your vehicle's manual, as improper inflation is a common cause of warning lights. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, which could also trigger the warning light. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as outlined in your owner's manual, to see if this resolves the issue. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of damage or leaks that might be affecting the system. If the warning light remains illuminated after these checks, it may indicate a more complex problem with the tire pressure monitoring system itself, at which point consulting a mechanic or dealership for professional diagnosis and repair is advisable. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the issue and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 Ford Taurus?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2012 Ford Taurus, it can be indicative of several common issues that DIY enthusiasts should be aware of. One primary concern is a leaking tire, which can lead to a slow loss of air pressure, compromising safety and performance. Additionally, a wheel that fails to hold air properly can also trigger the warning light. It's essential to inspect the tires for visible damage or punctures. Another potential culprit is the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself, which may have a depleted battery in one of the sensors, a malfunctioning receiver module, or a faulty sensor. If the light is blinking, it often points to low tire pressure or a malfunctioning sensor, while a steady light may indicate that the system requires a reset after maintenance work. Regularly checking tire pressure and ensuring the TPMS is functioning correctly can help mitigate these issues. If the warning light remains illuminated despite proper tire inflation, further investigation into sensor failures or system malfunctions is recommended to ensure safe driving conditions.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2012 Ford Taurus that stays on?

When the tire pressure warning light on your 2012 Ford Taurus remains illuminated, it is crucial to act swiftly. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious safety hazards, as low tire pressure significantly impacts your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This not only increases the risk of accidents but can also result in tire overheating, which may cause tire blowouts while driving. To ensure your safety, it is advisable to pull over to a safe location as soon as possible and check the tire pressure. If the pressure is low, inflate the tires to the recommended levels. Additionally, a persistent TPMS light could indicate a malfunctioning sensor, which may require resetting or replacement. By addressing this issue promptly, you can maintain optimal vehicle performance and prevent costly repairs down the line.

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2012 Ford Taurus Tire Pressure Warning Light Causes