How to Reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on Ford Vehicles
Resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on Ford vehicles 2007 and newer is easy, requiring checking the owner’s manual or the warning light on the dashboard.
If you own a Ford vehicle equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), you may need to reset the system after rotating or replacing your tires, or if the TPMS warning light comes on. Resetting the TPMS ensures that it can accurately monitor your tire pressures and alert you if any tire becomes significantly underinflated.
This guide will walk you through the TPMS reset and relearn process for various Ford models. It covers both the manual reset procedure using the vehicle’s controls, as well as how to reset the TPMS using an OBD scanner tool.
What is TPMS and Why is it Important?
TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It uses sensors mounted inside each wheel to monitor the air pressure in your tires. If any tire’s pressure drops 25% or more below the recommended pressure, the system will alert you by turning on the TPMS warning light on the dashboard.
Driving on underinflated tires is dangerous – it can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, reduced fuel economy, and even tire failure. That’s why TPMS is an important safety feature that has been required on all new passenger vehicles in the U.S. since 2007.
Ford Models with TPMS
Most Ford vehicles 2007 and newer are equipped with TPMS. This includes popular models like the:
- Ford F-150
- Ford Escape
- Ford Explorer
- Ford Fusion
- Ford Mustang
- Ford Ranger
- Ford Edge
- Ford Expedition
- Ford Fiesta
- Ford Focus
- Ford Taurus
If you’re not sure if your specific Ford model has TPMS, check the owner’s manual or look for the TPMS warning light on the dash when you start the vehicle. It looks like a cross-section of a tire with an exclamation mark.
When to Reset the TPMS on Your Ford
There are a few situations when you’ll need to reset the TPMS on your Ford:
- After rotating or replacing your tires
- If you get new TPMS sensors installed
- When the TPMS warning light comes on and stays on
- If you get a “TPMS Fault” or “Check TPMS” message
Resetting the system will clear any stored sensor IDs and warning messages, allowing the TPMS to relearn the positions and pressure thresholds of the sensors.
How to Reset TPMS on a Ford: Manual Method
Many Ford models allow you to reset the TPMS through a series of steps using the vehicle’s ignition and controls. The exact procedure varies slightly between models and years, so consult your owner’s manual for the specific steps for your vehicle. But in general, here’s how the manual TPMS reset works on most Fords:
- Make sure all tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the placard inside the driver’s door.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position, but don’t start the engine.
- Press and release the brake pedal.
- Cycle the ignition from “OFF” to “ON” three times, ending in the “ON” position. You’ll see a message like “Train Left Front Tire” on the dash display.
- Starting with the left front tire, use a TPMS tool to activate the sensor (or release air from the tire until the horn sounds). The display will then prompt you to train the next sensor in sequence (right front, right rear, left rear).
- Once all sensors are trained, the message center will display “Training Complete”. Turn off the ignition.
- Start the engine and let it run for at least 20 minutes to complete the relearn process. The TPMS warning light should turn off.
If done correctly, your Ford’s TPMS is now reset and will alert you if any tire pressure drops too low. It’s a good idea to check your tire pressures monthly to ensure they stay properly inflated.
Resetting TPMS on a Ford Using an OBD Scanner
For some newer Ford models, you can reset the TPMS more easily using an OBD scanner tool with TPMS reset capabilities. This allows you to command the TPMS module to relearn the sensor IDs without having to go through the manual steps.
To do this, you’ll need an OBD scanner that supports the Ford TPMS reset function. Brands like ATEQ, Autel, and Snap-On offer this capability on some of their professional scan tools. Here’s the general process:
- Inflate all tires to the proper pressure.
- Connect the OBD scanner to your Ford’s diagnostic port under the dash. Turn the ignition on.
- Navigate to the TPMS reset function on the scan tool’s menu. Select your Ford model and year.
- Activate each wheel sensor in the sequence specified by the scanner (usually starting with the left front and going clockwise).
- The scanner will register each sensor ID and tell you when the relearn is complete. On some Fords, you may see a “Training Complete” message on the dash as well.
- Disconnect the scanner and turn the ignition off. The TPMS light should be off when you restart the vehicle.
Using a scan tool is often faster and easier than the manual method, especially if you reset the TPMS frequently. But both methods will reset the system so it can properly monitor your tire pressures.
Troubleshooting TPMS Reset Issues
If you’ve tried to reset your Ford’s TPMS and the warning light is still on, there are a few things you can try:
- Double check that all tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Even if just one tire is low, it can prevent the system from resetting.
- Make sure you are following the reset procedure exactly as specified for your vehicle. The steps and timing are important.
- If you’re using a TPMS tool to activate the sensors, make sure it’s aimed directly at the valve stem and held close enough (within an inch or two).
- Try repeating the relearn process. It can take a few tries sometimes for all the sensor IDs to register.
- If the light is flashing, it indicates a TPMS malfunction. One of the sensors may be damaged or defective. Have the system diagnosed by a professional.
- On some Ford models, the TPMS warning light will stay on for a few minutes even after a successful reset. Try driving the vehicle above 20 mph for at least 10 minutes to see if the light turns off.
If you’re still having trouble, consult your Ford dealer or a qualified tire shop for assistance. They can verify that your sensors are functioning properly and help troubleshoot any persistent TPMS issues.
Maintaining Your Ford’s TPMS
Resetting the TPMS is an important part of tire maintenance on your Ford, but there are a few other things you should do to ensure the system keeps working optimally:
- Check your tire pressures regularly, at least once a month. Reset the TPMS any time you adjust the pressures.
- When installing new tires, make sure they are compatible with your Ford’s TPMS. The sensors may need to be transferred from the old wheels to the new ones.
- If you have a tire repaired due to a puncture, have the sensor checked before the tire is remounted to make sure it wasn’t damaged.
- Replace TPMS sensors if the batteries die (usually after 5-10 years) or if they become damaged. You’ll need to have the new sensor IDs relearned to the system.
- If you install winter tires on your Ford, you may need to have TPMS sensors mounted in those wheels as well. Otherwise, the system will not function properly.
By resetting the TPMS when needed and following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your Ford’s tire pressure monitoring system will continue to help keep you safe on the road for years to come.
Final Words of Boss Erwin
Resetting the TPMS on your Ford vehicle is a straightforward process that you can do at home with just a few tools. Whether you use the manual method or an OBD scanner, it’s important to reset the system any time you rotate or replace your tires, or if the TPMS warning light comes on.
FAQs About Ford TPMS Reset
Can I reset the TPMS on my Ford myself?
Yes, resetting the TPMS on most Ford models is something you can do yourself at home. Just follow the steps outlined in your owner’s manual or this guide. If you have trouble, consult a professional for assistance.
Do I need a special tool to reset my Ford’s TPMS?
That depends on the method you use. The manual reset procedure doesn’t require any tools, but you will need a TPMS activation tool to trigger the sensors during the relearn process. If you use an OBD scanner to reset the TPMS, it will need to have the Ford TPMS reset function.
How often do I need to reset the TPMS on my Ford?
You should reset the TPMS any time you rotate your tires, install new tires, or adjust your tire pressures. You’ll also need to reset it if you get a new TPMS sensor installed. The TPMS warning light will prompt you to reset the system if it detects any changes.
What does it mean if my Ford’s TPMS light is flashing?
A flashing TPMS light indicates a problem with the system, such as a sensor malfunction or signal interference. It could also mean one of your sensors has a low battery. If the light is flashing, have your TPMS checked by a tire professional.
Why is my Ford’s TPMS light still on after resetting the system?
There are a few reasons the TPMS light may stay on after a reset:
- One or more tires may still be below the recommended pressure threshold.
- The relearn procedure wasn’t completed successfully.
- There’s a problem with one of the sensors or the TPMS module itself.
Double check your tire pressures first, then try repeating the reset. If the light still won’t turn off, have your TPMS inspected for malfunctions.
Do I really need to reset my Ford’s TPMS?
Yes, resetting the TPMS is important to ensure it can accurately monitor your tire pressures. If the stored sensor positions and pressure thresholds are incorrect, the system may give false alerts or fail to alert you if a tire becomes dangerously underinflated. Performing the reset only takes a few minutes and will allow your TPMS to do its job keeping you safe on the road.