One such essential feature is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), designed to alert drivers when tire pressure is too low or too high. If you’re a Ford owner and see a “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” warning, you’re not alone. This common alert can indicate various issues from a dead battery in the sensor to communication errors between the sensor and the vehicle’s onboard computer.
Chapter 1: What Is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)?
TPMS is an automated system that monitors air pressure inside pneumatic tires. It alerts the driver via a dashboard warning if pressure falls below a certain threshold—typically 25% below the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Two Main Types of TPMS
Direct TPMS:
Uses pressure sensors mounted inside each tire.
Measures actual tire pressure and transmits the data wirelessly to the onboard computer.
More accurate but subject to sensor battery failure.
Indirect TPMS:
Uses ABS and wheel speed sensors.
Detects differences in wheel rotation speed due to pressure changes.
Less accurate and more prone to false alerts.
Most modern Ford vehicles use direct TPMS, which is why a sensor fault usually relates to physical sensor failure.
Chapter 2: What Does “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” Mean on a Ford?
The “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” warning typically appears on the instrument cluster or infotainment screen. It means that the vehicle’s TPMS is not receiving proper data from one or more sensors.
Common Scenarios:
The sensor battery is dead.
One or more sensors are damaged.
The TPMS control module has failed.
Interference or communication issues exist.
Sensors were not reprogrammed after a tire change.
The warning might be intermittent at first but can become constant if not addressed.
Chapter 3: Common Causes of Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
1. Sensor Battery Depletion
Each TPMS sensor has a built-in battery with a life span of around 5–10 years. Once it dies, the sensor stops sending signals.
2. Sensor Damage
A damaged sensor from tire installation or road debris can fail to communicate with the car.
3. Aftermarket Wheels or Tires
Switching wheels without compatible sensors or failing to reprogram the sensors can trigger the fault.
4. Sensor Programming Error
Each sensor has a unique ID that must match the vehicle’s TPMS module. Failure to reprogram the new sensor after replacement will result in a fault.
5. TPMS Control Module Failure
The module receiving sensor data can fail, especially in older models, causing miscommunication.
6. Environmental Interference
Radio frequency interference from other electronics or static electricity can momentarily interrupt TPMS signals.
7. Tire Rotation or Replacement
Rotating tires or replacing one with a spare lacking a TPMS sensor may confuse the system.
Chapter 4: Symptoms of a Faulty TPMS Sensor in a Ford
Dashboard alert: “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault”
TPMS light stays on or blinks continuously
Incorrect tire pressure readings or missing data
Sudden disappearance of tire data from display
Pressure not updating even after inflation or deflation
Chapter 5: Diagnosing the Problem
1. Use a TPMS Scan Tool
OBD-II readers with TPMS capabilities can read sensor data, battery life, and fault codes.
2. Check Tire Pressure Manually
Use a reliable gauge to compare actual pressure to the dashboard display.
3. Perform a Visual Inspection
Look for damage on valve stems or sensors (inside the tire).
4. Swap Tires (If Possible)
If you suspect a single sensor is bad, swap tires front to rear and observe if the fault changes location.
5. Consult the Vehicle’s Service Menu
Some Ford models allow sensor re-learning or calibration through the dashboard menu.
Chapter 6: How to Fix Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
Step 1: Inflate All Tires to Proper PSI
Ensure all tires meet the manufacturer’s PSI specs, including the spare if applicable.
Step 2: Reset the TPMS
Some Ford vehicles have a TPMS reset button; others require a drive cycle (e.g., driving over 50 mph for 10 minutes).
Step 3: Relearn TPMS Sensors
Use a TPMS relearn tool (like Ford’s recommended TPMS19) or follow the manual relearn process using the ignition key and brake pedal.
Step 4: Replace the Faulty Sensor
If one sensor is dead, replace it. OEM sensors cost around $40–$80. Labor may cost $25–$50 per tire.
Step 5: Reprogram or Reinitialize
After replacement, the new sensor must be programmed into the vehicle using a scan tool or TPMS relearn procedure.
Chapter 7: Ford TPMS Relearn Process (Common Steps)
Here’s a common relearn process for Ford vehicles:
Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
Inflate all tires to the recommended pressure.
Turn ignition to ON (not start).
Press and release the brake pedal.
Turn ignition OFF and then ON three times, ending in ON.
Press and release brake pedal again.
Turn ignition OFF and ON three more times. TPMS indicator should blink.
Horn will sound. System is in learn mode.
Use a TPMS tool at each wheel in this order: LF → RF → RR → LR.
A chirp confirms each sensor. After the last tire, the horn will honk twice.
Refer to your vehicle manual for model-specific instructions.
Chapter 8: When to Visit a Mechanic
You should consider professional help if:
You lack the tools or experience to handle sensors.
The fault persists even after a reset.
Multiple sensors need replacement.
The TPMS control module is suspected to be faulty.
You’ve recently had wheel/tire/suspension work done.
A dealership or tire shop can run full diagnostics, including checking RF signal strength, sensor IDs, and module health.
Chapter 9: TPMS Sensor Replacement Costs
A full set of sensors including labor might cost $250–$400 depending on the vehicle and location.
Chapter 10: DIY vs. Professional Repair
DIY Advantages
Cost savings
Learning experience
Quick fixes for minor issues (e.g., re-inflating or resetting)
DIY Risks
Incorrect programming
Incomplete installation
Misdiagnosis without a scan tool
Professional Advantages
Guaranteed work
Proper tools and software
Diagnosis of deeper electronic faults
For most owners, replacing a sensor or resetting the TPMS can be done with basic tools. However, complex faults are best left to professionals.
Chapter 11: How to Prevent TPMS Faults
Check Tire Pressure Monthly
Avoid underinflation, which can strain sensors and cause premature alerts.
Use Compatible Wheels
If upgrading to aftermarket wheels, ensure they’re TPMS-compatible.
Avoid Tire Sealants
Some sealants damage TPMS sensors and void warranties.
Rotate Tires Smartly
After rotation, always perform a TPMS relearn if required.
Don’t Ignore Small Warnings
Intermittent faults are early signs of battery death or signal loss.
Replace All Sensors Together (Optional)
If one sensor battery is dead and the others are close in age, replacing them all may save labor and headaches later.
Chapter 12: Ford Models Known for TPMS Issues
While TPMS faults can affect any vehicle, some Ford models have more common issues reported:
Ford F-150 (2009–2014):
Known for control module faults and battery failures.
Ford Escape (2011–2018):
Sensor sync problems after tire rotations.
Ford Fusion (2010–2016):
Aftermarket sensor compatibility issues.
Ford Explorer (2011–2019):
High rate of dead TPMS sensor batteries by 7 years.
Ford Edge (2015+):
Reports of faulty module after aftermarket wheel installation.