The Ford F-150 tire pressure sensor may suffer from three primary faults. Inaccurate readings can mislead drivers; also, sensor malfunctions can result in the system failing to detect tire pressure abnormalities. Eventually, excessive battery drainage can lead to frequent failures and additional expenses.
Ford owners have encountered their fair share of challenges with their Ford F150 tire pressure sensor fault, which lead to inconvenience and potential safety concerns. Technological advancements have significantly enhanced the driving experience, ensuring both comfort and safety.
One such innovation is the tire pressure sensor system, designed to alert drivers of potential tire pressure issues. However, even the most reliable systems are not exempt from occasional faults.
It’s a heavy-duty vehicle so you must know what goes on with the tires at all times and you must be keen on the Ford F-150 tire pressure sensor fault.
What Is Tire Pressure Sensor
A tire pressure sensor is a vital component in modern vehicles, including the Ford F-150. It plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal tire pressure and enhancing safety, performance, and fuel efficiency on the road.
The direct TPMS used by the Ford F-150 uses sensors positioned within each tire to keep track of tire pressure.
These sensors wirelessly communicate the data to the car’s internal computer system while continually monitoring tire air pressure.
The Ford F-150’s tire pressure sensor operates as follows:
- A tiny pressure transducer driven by batteries that is installed inside each tire serves as the tire pressure sensor. The air pressure is measured by this transducer, which then turns the data into an electrical signal.
- The sensor wirelessly transmits the tire pressure information to the vehicle’s TPMS control module through radio frequency signals. The control module then processes this data to determine if the tire pressure is within the recommended range.
- If the tire pressure falls below or exceeds the predetermined threshold, the TPMS control module triggers a warning signal, usually in the form of a dashboard indicator or alert.
The tire pressure sensor in the Ford F-150 offers several key advantages:
Safety Enhancement:
By continuously monitoring tire pressure, the sensor helps prevent underinflated or overinflated tires, which can lead to decreased traction, increased braking distances, and the risk of tire blowouts.
Fuel Efficiency Improvement:
Maintaining the recommended tire pressure ensures optimal fuel efficiency.
The tire pressure sensor helps drivers keep their tires properly inflated, reducing rolling resistance and improving gas mileage.
Tire Longevity:
Adequate tire pressure distribution helps promote even wear across the tire tread.
By preventing underinflation or overinflation, the tire pressure sensor contributes to extended tire life and reduces the need for premature tire replacements.
13-Major Ford F150 Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
The Ford F-150’s tire pressure sensor is a useful device that enables drivers to maintain ideal tire pressure and guarantee a safe driving experience.
Like any other technology, it is not impervious to flaws and errors. Owners of the F-150 may spot possible problems and take quick action by being aware of them.
When encountering any faults with the Ford F-150 tire pressure sensor, it is advisable for owners to seek professional assistance from a certified technician or do things on their own if they can.
These experts can diagnose the specific issue and provide the appropriate solution, which may involve sensor recalibration, software updates, or sensor replacement. Below are eight major faults that can occur with the Ford F-150 tire pressure sensor:
1. Inaccurate Readings:
One of the primary faults is inaccurate readings from the tire pressure sensor. This can lead to misleading information regarding tire pressure levels.
Inaccurate readings can result from sensor calibration issues, faulty sensors, or interference from other electronic devices.
2. Sensor Malfunction:
Another common fault is sensor malfunction, where the tire pressure sensor fails to detect abnormalities in tire pressure.
This can occur due to sensor damage, electrical problems, or software glitches within the TPMS control module.
3. Slow or No Response:
Some F-150 owners have reported slow or no response from the tire pressure sensor. This means that the sensor may not transmit data to the TPMS control module in a timely manner, causing delays in receiving tire pressure notifications.
4. False Alarms:
False alarms occur when the tire pressure sensor triggers a warning signal for low tire pressure or other abnormalities, even when the tire pressure is within the recommended range.
This can be frustrating for drivers and may result from sensor calibration errors or issues with the TPMS control module.
5. Battery Drainage:
The tire pressure sensor relies on a small internal battery to operate. However, excessive battery drainage can occur, leading to frequent sensor failures or the need for battery replacement.
This can be caused by electrical faults, extended periods of inactivity, or faulty sensor components.
6. Sensor Signal Interference:
The tire pressure sensor system can be susceptible to signal interference from other electronic devices or nearby radio frequencies.
This interference can disrupt the transmission of tire pressure data, resulting in inaccurate readings or failure to detect tire pressure abnormalities.
7. Sensor Corrosion:
Over time, the tire pressure sensors in the Ford F-150 can be vulnerable to corrosion due to exposure to moisture, road salt, or other environmental factors.
Corrosion can impair the sensor’s functionality, leading to inaccurate readings or complete sensor failure.
8. Sensor Replacement Cost:
When faced with a faulty tire pressure sensor, the cost of replacement can be a concern for F-150 owners. Depending on the specific sensor and vehicle model, the replacement cost can vary.
Additionally, the need for sensor recalibration or reprogramming may incur additional expenses. Regular maintenance and inspection of the tire pressure sensor system can also help prevent and detect faults early on.
Checking tire pressure manually with a reliable gauge and ensuring proper tire inflation can serve as a backup method to verify the accuracy of the tire pressure sensor.
So, while the tire pressure sensor in the Ford F-150 enhances safety and performance, it is crucial to be aware of potential faults that may arise.
9. Temperature difference
There is a warning about low tire pressure on the F150 because the temperature has dropped. Your TPMS warning light is likely to be on if the temperature difference between when your pressure was the last set and now is what’s making the light go on.
There is less air inside a tire when it gets hot. You need to change the tire pressure in the early winter and early summer to make sure it’s right.
You didn’t lose any air from your tires. It just dropped in pressure as the temperature went down. The same thing happens to all tires, in all cars, no matter what kind of gas is inside them (air or nitrogen).
Tires with low pressure should be topped off with air to get them back up to the set point. Soon after you set the pressures to the right level, the TPMS light should go out again.
If one of the tires becomes lower than other tires by approximately 30% or thereabout, you should seek a tire technician to solve the issue.
10. Ford F150 Dashboard
Your Ford F-150 is devised in a way that tells whether one or more tires get flat. In case your light is on, this indicates that one of the tires is flat and you need to stop for a check.
Pull over to a safe place as quickly as you can to look into it. A quick look around isn’t enough. A tire gauge is a helpful means of checking all your tires for pressure.
The Ford F-150’s owner’s manual (as shown below) will also give options on checking what do to in case of a flat tire.
11. F150 Tire Pressure Warning
To tell whether your system is faulty or broken, the indicator for Ford’s TMPS comes in handy. A TMPS malfunction indicator is among the devices equipped in your vehicle that alert you when there is a system malfunction.
For this reason, the TMPS malfunction indicator works with low tire pressure. In the instance the system notes a problem, there will be a flash from the telltale for almost one minute and then remain on throughout.
As long as there is a problem with the car, this sequence will keep going when the car starts up again. Ask for help from a mechanic if you can’t figure out what’s wrong with your TPMS system even though you checked the pressure in your tires with a tire gauge.
A Ford dealer isn’t required. But if your Ford F-150 is still under the original warranty, it would make sense to go there to get your car fixed. The TPMS system in your Ford F-150 can go bad over time or be damaged. This is like any other system in your truck.
Although the tire sensors can easily be changed, the system will require a restart to continue functioning as usual. I think that this job should be done by a mechanic or tire expert who knows how the system works and can do the work, but you can try it with the manual.
12. F150 Tire Sealants Warning
Fix-A-Flat and Slime may make your TPMS sensor not work if you use them on your car’s tires. Tire sealants can damage the sensor that tells you how much air is in a tire. Only use them in a roadside emergency.
13. F-150 Tire Pressure – New Tire or New Tires
New tires for your Ford F-150 might make your tire pressure light come on right away. The pressure requires frequent observation.
Could there be a possible issue that might go wrong?
Flats can happen when you drive out of a tire shop’s parking lot and have to stop. In such an instance, revisit the tire shop and inform them about a system malfunction in the TPWS system of the Ford F-150s.
A shop may need to start over with the system if they change the valve stems in the tires, so make sure to do that.
By understanding these common issues, F-150 owners can take proactive measures to address them promptly, ensuring accurate tire pressure monitoring and a smooth driving experience.
How To Fix Ford Tire Pressure Sensor Fault in 5-Uncomplicated Steps
Dealing with a tire pressure sensor fault in your Ford vehicle can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it can be resolved effectively.
It is important to note that DIY troubleshooting and repairs for the tire pressure sensor may not always be effective or recommended.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the tire pressure sensor system, including battery replacement at recommended intervals, can also help prevent and address potential faults proactively.
Here are four steps to help you fix the Ford tire pressure sensor fault:
Step 1. Verify Tire Pressure:
Start by manually checking the tire pressure using a reliable gauge. Compare the readings with the information provided by the sensor.
If the sensor is consistently showing inaccurate readings, it may require recalibration or replacement.
Step 2. Sensor Reset:
In some cases, a sensor reset can resolve minor faults.
Typically, the reset process involves turning the ignition on without starting the engine and holding the reset button until the TPMS indicator light flashes, indicating a successful reset.
Step 3: Sensor Recalibration:
If the sensor continues to provide inaccurate readings or behaves erratically, recalibration may be necessary.
During recalibration, the sensor’s data is reset and synchronized with the vehicle’s TPMS control module, ensuring accurate tire pressure monitoring.
Step 4: Sensor Replacement:
If all else fails, and the tire pressure sensor is consistently malfunctioning or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Consult your local Ford dealership or authorized service center for assistance in obtaining and installing a new sensor.
Step 5: Sensor Reprogramming
While an automobile scan tool may help you diagnose the issue, a local tire or repair shop can also do a scan to rapidly locate the faulty sensor. The battery life in the sensor ranges between 2 and 10 years.
Many cars including Ford F150 will need to be reprogrammed using the same scanner that discovered the defective one.
The scanner sends the signal from the sensor to the car’s computer, allowing the two to interact. Since the computer cannot read a new sensor in the absence of the scanner, the dashboard light remains on to indicate the urgent need for reprogramming as part of the replacement.
The reprogramming procedure differs by car model. Some automobiles need a little amount of mileage on the new sensor for the computer to identify it.
Ford F150 Tire Pressure Sensor Location
The Ford F-150’s tire pressure sensors are normally found close to the valve stem within each tire. They are fitted on the wheel assembly and placed such that they can precisely measure the tire pressure.
You can refer to your vehicle’s owner’s handbook or speak with a qualified technician to find the location of the tire pressure sensors in your particular Ford F-150 model.
The TPMS’s tire pressure sensors are a critical component and work together to give the driver accurate information about the tire pressure in real-time.
Owners of the Ford F-150 are better equipped to manage and solve any possible problems with tire pressure monitoring if they are aware of where the tire pressure sensor is located.
How To Disable Tire Pressure Sensor Ford F150 (Ford F150 Tire Pressure Sensor Disable)
It is not advised to turn off the tire pressure sensor in a Ford F-150 since it is a crucial safety function that checks tire pressure and ensures the vehicle is operating at its best.
Disabling the device may result in lower fuel efficiency, poor fuel economy, and perhaps problematic vehicle handling.
The following four procedures can be taken, nevertheless, if you still want to turn off the tire pressure sensor.
Step 1. Consult Owner’s Manual:
Start by referring to the owner’s manual for your specific Ford F-150 model. The manual may provide instructions on how to disable the tire pressure sensor, if applicable.
It’s important to note that not all models may have a disable option, as it is generally discouraged.
Step 2. Locate TPMS Fuse:
If disabling the tire pressure sensor is possible in your Ford F-150, the next step is to locate the TPMS fuse. The fuse box is usually located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment.
Consult the owner’s manual or a fuse box diagram to identify the specific fuse responsible for the TPMS.
Step 3. Remove TPMS Fuse:
Once the TPMS fuse is identified, carefully remove it using fuse pullers or by hand. Ensure that the vehicle is turned off and the key is removed from the ignition before attempting to remove the fuse.
Step 4. Verify Disabling:
After removing the TPMS fuse, start the vehicle and check if the TPMS warning light or any other related indicators are no longer illuminated on the dashboard.
Keep in mind that disabling the tire pressure sensor may also trigger a warning light or error message, which could affect the vehicle’s overall functionality.
Ford F150 Tire Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing a tire pressure sensor in a Ford F-150 can vary depending on several factors, including the specific model year, location, and the dealership or service center pricing.
It’s important to note that the following cost estimates are approximate and subject to change:
Parts Cost: The cost of a single tire pressure sensor for a Ford F-150 can range from around $50 to $100 or more, depending on the brand and quality of the sensor.
Labor Cost: The labor cost for replacing a tire pressure sensor typically involves the technician’s time spent removing the tire, replacing the sensor, and reassembling the tire.
Labor charges can vary, but they generally range from $50 to $100 per hour. The total labor cost may also depend on whether the sensor replacement is done individually or as part of a tire change or rotation service.
Additional Costs: There may be additional costs involved, such as taxes, shop fees, or any other charges imposed by the service center. These costs can vary depending on the location and service provider.
On average, the total cost of replacing a tire pressure sensor in a Ford F-150 can range from approximately $100 to $300 per sensor. This includes the parts cost, labor cost, and any additional fees. However, it’s important to keep in mind that prices can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned earlier.
To get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle and location, it is recommended to contact your local Ford dealership or a trusted automotive service center.
Crucial FAQs
Does a tire pressure monitoring system benefit drivers?
The function of a monitoring system is to provide security and become efficient for the user. It may, for example, be a signal that the tire pressure has dropped below a certain level, requiring quick care.
It shows up as a TPMS sign or a flat tire sign with exclamation points. Poorly inflated tires might create difficulties, so it’s critical to pay attention to these warning lights.
Is driving with a faulty tire pressure sensor safe?
No, driving with a faulty tire pressure sensor is not a smart idea.
It’s because the wheels can be underinflated or have other issues that need to be addressed before they can be used on the road. This might lead to tire failure and a blowout.
What is the cost of replacing a tire pressure sensor?
The cost of replacing the tire pressure sensor on a Ford F150 is around $170. However, if you include the labor cost of $50-$70, it will be much more expensive.
Approximately how long do tire pressure sensors last?
The tire pressure sensor typically lasts 5 to 10 years until the battery inside dies. Both the old and new truck models feature lithium-ion batteries that won’t last much longer.
What Is the Essence of the Light from a Flashing Tire Pressure?
What is the meaning of the light flashing from the tire pressure light? This might mean that the tire pressure sensors need to be replaced, or that one of the sensors is malfunctioning in general.
Schedule service at Jim Hudson Ford near Irmo to diagnose the exact issue. Our technicians can figure out problems very quickly.
What are the symptoms of a Ford F250 tire pressure system failure?
The pressure level within the tire is normally detected by the sensor. They’re necessary to avoid mishaps.
Meanwhile, the indicator indicates that you should stop driving and check the pressure in all of your tires, then fill them to the correct level.
Summing Up
The tire pressure sensor in the Ford F-150 is a crucial component that enhances safety, performance, and fuel efficiency.
While some users have faced Ford F150 tire pressure sensor faults, it is important to address them promptly to ensure accurate tire pressure monitoring.
By apprehending familiar issues and seeking professional assistance when needed, F-150 owners can effectively troubleshoot and fix tire pressure sensor faults.
It is advisable to follow the recommended steps for fixing faults, such as verifying tire pressure, performing sensor resets or recalibrations, and considering sensor replacement if necessary.
Maintaining the proper functioning of the tire pressure sensor in the Ford F-150 is essential for a smooth and safe driving experience.
