If your 2020 Ford Explorer displays Tire Pressure Sensor Fault, TPMS Fault, or the tire pressure warning light remains on after checking the tire pressure, the TPMS system may need to be reset or relearned. Follow the steps below to reset the tire pressure monitoring system.
Step 1: Check and Adjust Tire Pressure
Before resetting the TPMS system, make sure all four tires are properly inflated.
Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold.
Adjust all tires to the recommended PSI shown on the driver’s side door label.
Inspect the tires for leaks, punctures, or damage.
If a tire has been replaced or repaired, the TPMS sensor may need to be relearned.
After adjusting the tire pressure, drive the vehicle for several minutes. In many cases, the warning light will turn off automatically after the system detects the correct tire pressure.
Step 2: Reset TPMS Through the Vehicle Menu
For some 2020 Ford Explorer models, you can reset the system through the dashboard menu.
Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine.
Use the steering wheel controls to open the instrument cluster menu.
Select Settings.
Select Vehicle Settings.
Choose Tire Pressure Monitor or Tire Pressure.
Select Reset or Train Sensors if available.
Confirm the reset.
Start the engine and drive above 20 mph (32 km/h) for about 10 minutes.
The TPMS system will automatically relearn the tire pressure sensors while driving.
Step 3: Perform a Manual TPMS Sensor Relearn
If the Tire Pressure Sensor Fault message remains, manually relearn the sensors.
Turn the ignition off.
Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine.
Press and release the brake pedal once.
Turn the ignition off.
Turn the ignition on and off three times, ending with the ignition in the ON position.
The horn may sound once, indicating that the vehicle has entered TPMS learning mode.
Starting with the left front tire, use a TPMS activation tool near the valve stem until the horn sounds.
Repeat the process in this order:
Left Front Tire
Right Front Tire
Right Rear Tire
Left Rear Tire
After the final sensor is programmed, the horn will sound twice.
Turn the ignition off and restart the vehicle.
Step 4: Reset TPMS Using a Diagnostic Tool
If the fault message still appears, a TPMS scan tool may be required.
Connect a compatible TPMS diagnostic tool to the vehicle.
Select the 2020 Ford Explorer model.
Enter TPMS service mode.
Activate each tire pressure sensor.
Program or relearn the sensor IDs.
Clear TPMS fault codes.
Perform a road test to confirm the system is working correctly.
Common Causes of Tire Pressure Sensor Fault
Low tire pressure
Weak or dead TPMS sensor battery
Damaged tire pressure sensor
Tire replacement without sensor programming
Incorrect TPMS sensor installation
Lost sensor ID after battery replacement
TPMS module communication failure
If the TPMS Warning Light Does Not Turn Off
If the reset procedure does not solve the problem, check each sensor for proper operation. A faulty sensor, damaged valve stem, or TPMS module issue may prevent the system from resetting.
The TPMS reset is complete when the Tire Pressure Sensor Fault message disappears and the tire pressure warning light turns off after the vehicle completes the relearn process.
