1999 Mercury Tracer Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 1999 Mercury Tracer: 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 1999 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 1999 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 tire pressure warning light issue in my 1999 Mercury Tracer?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 1999 Mercury Tracer, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure of all four tires using a reliable pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the pressure is correct but the warning light remains illuminated, inspect each tire for visible damage, such as punctures or leaks, which could be triggering the alert. Should the tires appear fine, consider resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as this can sometimes resolve false warnings. If the light persists, it may indicate a malfunctioning TPMS sensor, which would require further investigation or replacement. If you find yourself unable to resolve the issue through these steps, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

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

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1999 Mercury Tracer, it often indicates underlying issues that can be addressed through careful inspection and troubleshooting. The most prevalent cause is low tire pressure, which can result from punctures, leaks, or the natural loss of air over time. To begin, check each tire's pressure using a reliable gauge and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the next step is to examine the tire pressure sensors. A faulty sensor may fail to relay accurate information, keeping the warning light on. Inspect the wiring and connections associated with the tire pressure monitoring system, as damaged or corroded wiring can disrupt communication between the sensors and the vehicle's computer. Lastly, if all else appears normal, consider the possibility of a malfunctioning control module, which may require professional diagnosis. By systematically addressing these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light issue in their Mercury Tracer.

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

If the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 1999 Mercury Tracer, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased traction, increased tire wear, and even tire blowouts, which pose significant risks while driving. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, as under-inflation is a common cause for the warning light. If the pressure is low, inflate the tires to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate but the light persists, you may need to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by following the specific reset procedure for your vehicle. Additionally, driving the car for a short distance at highway speeds can sometimes help the system recalibrate. Addressing the tire pressure warning light promptly not only enhances your safety on the road but also prevents potential damage to your tires and vehicle.

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1999 Mercury Tracer Tire Pressure Warning Light Fix