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2015 Ford Explorer TPMS Reset & Tire Pressure Troubleshooting
Find the correct cold pressure, understand TPMS faults and learn when sensor relearning is needed.
Confirm the vehicle's engine, trim, drivetrain, market and equipment. The exact procedure may differ, even within the same model year.
Start with the door-jamb label
The recommended cold tire pressures are printed on the vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information label, not universally determined by trim name or sidewall maximum. Match the actual tire size and equipment to the label. Measure after the vehicle has been parked long enough for the tires to be cold.
Low-pressure warning versus system fault
A steady tire-pressure warning normally calls for checking and correcting pressures on all road tires. A warning that flashes initially and then stays on may indicate a TPMS system malfunction. Do not mistake a failed sensor or receiver for proof that tire pressures are safe.
Correcting a pressure alert
Use a reliable gauge, inflate to the cold placard pressure and inspect for nails, cracked valve stems or wheel damage if air loss continues. Driving warms tires and raises measured pressure. Avoid bleeding a warm tire down to the placard’s cold value.
When a sensor relearn may be required
Sensor identification and training can become relevant after wheel changes, sensor replacement or certain tire-service procedures. Relearn requirements depend on the sensor and hardware configuration. Use the Ford-specified TPMS training tool and procedure where needed, rather than following instructions for a newer Explorer generation.
After rotating tires
Record tire sizes and rotation positions and check whether pressures differ front to rear on the specific placard. Tire rotation alone should not be treated as a reason to buy sensors. If a warning persists, scan TPMS data to identify which transmitter is missing or reporting inaccurately.
Winter wheel considerations
If fitting a separate winter wheel set, confirm the compatible sensor frequency and fitment with the wheel supplier. Wheel dimensions, valve clearance and sensor programming can all affect operation. A tire-pressure warning should be resolved before relying on the vehicle for long trips.
A low-pressure alert is not always a bad sensor
Measure cold tire pressure with an accurate gauge at all four road wheels, using the driver-door placard rather than the sidewall maximum. Temperature drops can lower pressure enough to trigger an alert. A TPMS malfunction warning is different from an ordinary low-pressure message and may need scan-tool diagnosis.
After installing winter wheels
A second set of wheels must use sensors compatible with the Explorer’s equipment. A tire shop can confirm sensor frequency, programming and whether a relearn is needed. Do not assume the system will automatically recognize every aftermarket sensor; complete the vehicle-specific procedure before judging it faulty.
A pressure warning versus a sensor fault
A steady low-pressure warning should prompt a cold tire-pressure check using the door-jamb label. A flashing warning that stays on may indicate a system or sensor malfunction instead. Winter wheels may require compatible TPMS sensors and the correct relearn process. Never inflate to a tire-sidewall maximum as a substitute for the vehicle placard.
Pressure warning or sensor fault?
First measure all tires cold using the driver-door placard, including checking for visible punctures or damage. A steady low-pressure indication differs from an apparent sensor fault, which may flash before remaining illuminated. Replacement wheels or sensors may need compatibility checks and a relearn procedure. Driving temporarily with a spare may change how warnings behave. Do not suppress a warning simply because the tires look inflated: a tire can be significantly underinflated without appearing flat. Recheck pressures after any adjustment.
Use the correct model-year manual and current service information. Stop if instructions or safety precautions are unclear, and use a qualified technician for work you cannot verify.
References and further reading
This independent guide is not endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer. Let us know if you spot an error.