Ford Tempo Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Ford Tempo 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 Ford Tempo 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 Tempo 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.

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 Tempo

When troubleshooting the tire pressure warning light in your Ford Tempo, start by checking for any visible tire leaks, as this is often the simplest and most common cause of low tire pressure. If you find no leaks, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by locating the reset button and holding it until the light blinks three times. After resetting, drive your vehicle for a short distance to allow the system to recalibrate. If the light remains on despite proper tire inflation, it may indicate a malfunction within the TPMS itself, which could require professional servicing. Additionally, pay attention to the indicators: a solid light typically means low pressure, while a flashing light may suggest a failing sensor battery. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively manage the tire pressure warning light and maintain your vehicle's safety and performance.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Ford Tempo

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in a Ford Tempo, it's essential to understand the common problems that may trigger this alert. One frequent issue is tire leaks, which can lead to a drop in pressure and cause the warning light to activate. Regularly inspecting your tires for punctures or damage can help you catch these leaks early. Another common problem is a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). If your tires are adequately inflated but the light remains on, the TPMS may need professional attention. Additionally, the warning light can indicate that the battery in one of the tire sensors is failing, especially if the light is flashing. To reset the TPMS after addressing any tire issues, you can hold the reset button until the light blinks three times, then drive the vehicle for a short distance to allow the system to recalibrate. By being aware of these potential problems, you can take proactive steps to ensure your Ford Tempo's tire pressure monitoring system functions correctly, promoting safer driving conditions.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Ford Tempo?

When the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light remains illuminated in your Ford Tempo, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to dangerous driving conditions, as under-inflated tires can significantly affect vehicle handling, increase stopping distances, and elevate the risk of tire blowouts. Additionally, a malfunctioning TPMS sensor can lead to further complications, such as uneven tire wear and decreased fuel efficiency. To mitigate these risks, start by checking the air pressure in all tires, ensuring they meet the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate and the light persists, inspect the TPMS sensors for any signs of damage or wear, as these components can fail over time, especially after impacts or rough driving conditions. By taking these steps, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also safeguard your well-being and that of others on the road.

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