1999 Mercury Cougar Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Tire Pressure Warning Light Issues in 1999 Mercury Cougar

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Mercury Cougar 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 1999 Mercury Cougar 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.

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 Mercury Cougar?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue on your 1999 Mercury Cougar, begin with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that each tire is inflated to the recommended PSI as indicated in your owner's manual or on the sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, and look for any foreign objects that may be lodged in the tread. If you find any discrepancies in tire pressure, adjust accordingly by either releasing air from overinflated tires or adding air to those that are underinflated. After making these adjustments, consult your owner's manual to determine if a manual reset of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is necessary, as some vehicles require this step to clear the warning light. Additionally, remember to check the spare tire, as a low-pressure spare can also trigger the TPMS light. If the warning light remains illuminated despite these efforts, it may indicate a more serious issue with the TPMS sensors or system, at which point seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership is advisable for further diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1999 Mercury Cougar?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1999 Mercury Cougar, it is crucial to understand the common problems that could be causing this issue. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which can occur due to punctures, leaks, or the natural loss of air over time. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for both safety and performance. Additionally, a faulty tire pressure sensor may be at fault; if the sensor is malfunctioning, it may not provide accurate readings, leading to the warning light staying on. Wiring issues or poor connections within the tire pressure monitoring system can also result in incorrect readings, as can a defective control module that processes the sensor data. Lastly, if you've recently replaced your car battery, the tire pressure monitoring system may need recalibration, which can temporarily trigger the warning light. Addressing these potential issues promptly is vital to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently. If you're unable to identify the problem, consulting a professional mechanic is recommended for a thorough inspection and diagnosis.

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

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1999 Mercury Cougar, it is crucial to act promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including reduced vehicle handling, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which can pose significant risks to you and other drivers. Start by checking the tire pressure in all tires, including the spare, and inflate them to the recommended levels found in your owner's manual. If you discover any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, it is essential to have them inspected by a professional, as neglecting these issues can lead to further tire failure. Additionally, after adjusting the tire pressure, consult your manual to see if a system reset is necessary; failing to do so may leave the warning light on unnecessarily. If the light persists despite your efforts, it may indicate a malfunction in the tire pressure monitoring system, warranting a visit to a mechanic. By addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly, 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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