1996 Mercury Tracer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Persistent Tire Pressure Warning Light in 1996 Mercury Tracer

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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 1996 Mercury Tracer 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 1996 Mercury Tracer 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 persistent tire pressure warning light on my 1996 Mercury Tracer?

To effectively diagnose the persistent tire pressure warning light on your 1996 Mercury Tracer, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure of all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as low pressure is a common trigger for the warning light. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage or punctures that could lead to air loss. Don’t forget to examine the valve stems for any signs of wear or leaks, as faulty valve stems can also cause pressure issues. Using a reliable tire pressure gauge will help you confirm the accuracy of your tire pressure readings. If you find that the tire pressure is correct and there are no visible issues, consult your vehicle's manual for instructions on how to reset the tire pressure monitoring system, as some vehicles require a manual reset after addressing any problems. If the warning light remains illuminated despite these checks, it may indicate a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself, at which point seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is advisable for further diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the issue and ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 1996 Mercury Tracer?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 1996 Mercury Tracer, it often signals underlying issues that require attention. One of the most frequent culprits is a leaking tire, which can lead to a gradual loss of air pressure, prompting the warning light to activate. Additionally, if a wheel is unable to maintain air due to damage or wear, this can also trigger the light. It's essential to check for any visible punctures or damage to the tires. If the tires are properly inflated yet the light persists, it may indicate a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself, which could be due to a faulty sensor or wiring issue. Extreme temperature changes can further complicate matters, as they can cause fluctuations in tire pressure that may not be immediately apparent. In cases where the light blinks rather than remains steady, this typically points to low tire pressure or a need to reset the system after a tire repair. Understanding these common problems can help you diagnose the issue effectively and take the necessary steps to ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

What should I do if the tire pressure warning light stays on in my 1996 Mercury Tracer?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1996 Mercury Tracer, it is crucial to act 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 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 to prevent underinflation-related issues. Additionally, inspect your tires for any visible damage, as neglecting to address punctures or bulges can lead to further complications. If the warning light persists after correcting the tire pressure, it may indicate a malfunction in the tire pressure monitoring system, necessitating a professional diagnosis. Taking these steps not only ensures your vehicle operates safely but also helps avoid costly repairs down the line, making it essential to address the tire pressure warning light without delay.

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1996 Mercury Tracer Tire Pressure Warning Light Fixes