2013 Ford Explorer Tire Pressure – The Complete Guide To Optimal
Maintaining the correct 2013 ford explorer tire pressure is essential for ensuring vehicle stability, maximizing fuel economy, and extending the lifespan of your tread. This guide provides the exact PSI specifications for all trim levels, step-by-step TPMS reset procedures, and expert troubleshooting for common sensor issues.
We have all been there: you are heading out for a weekend camping trip or a routine grocery run, and that nagging yellow horseshoe icon lights up on your dashboard. Dealing with the 2013 ford explorer tire pressure system might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it is actually one of the most important safety features on your SUV.
In this guide, I will show you exactly how to find your specific pressure ratings and how to maintain them like a pro. You will learn the difference between the “max pressure” listed on your tire and the “recommended pressure” from Ford. We will also dive into why your sensors might be acting up during those cold winter mornings.
By the end of this article, you will have the confidence to handle your own tire maintenance and keep your Explorer running smoothly. Whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend trail seeker, getting your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure right is the first step to a safer drive.
The Factory Specifications: Finding Your Correct PSI
The most common mistake I see DIYers make is reading the pressure number molded into the side of the tire itself. That number represents the maximum pressure the tire can hold at its maximum load, not what your Ford Explorer needs. For the 2013 model year, Ford engineers spent thousands of hours testing various pressures to find the “sweet spot” for handling.
For a standard 2013 Ford Explorer equipped with 18-inch or 20-inch wheels, the recommended cold tire pressure is typically 35 PSI (pounds per square inch) for all four tires. This applies to the Base, XLT, Limited, and Sport trims. However, you should always verify this by looking at the Tire and Loading Information placard.
You can find this sticker on the driver’s side B-pillar, which is the metal frame visible when you open the driver’s door. It will list the original equipment tire size and the specific 2013 ford explorer tire pressure required for your specific build. If you have upgraded to aftermarket wheels or oversized off-road tires, these numbers may change slightly based on the tire manufacturer’s load inflation tables.
Understanding “Cold” Pressure
When we talk about 35 PSI, we are referring to “cold” pressure. This means checking the tires after the vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or has been driven less than a mile. Driving generates friction, which heats up the air inside the tires and causes the internal pressure to rise temporarily.
If you check your tires immediately after a long highway stint, you might see 38 or 40 PSI. Do not let air out to reach 35 PSI in this state. If you must add air to “hot” tires, add 3-4 PSI above the recommended cold pressure, then re-check them the next morning when they are cool.
Mastering Your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure for All Seasons
The air inside your tires is highly sensitive to ambient temperature changes. As a general rule of thumb, for every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires will lose approximately 1 PSI. This is why many Ford owners see their TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light come on during the first cold snap of autumn.
In regions with extreme winters, your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure can drop significantly overnight. If you set your tires to 35 PSI on a 70-degree afternoon, they might be at 30 PSI by the time the temperature hits freezing at 5:00 AM. This drop is often enough to trigger the low-pressure warning light on your dash.
To combat this, I recommend checking your levels once a month and always before a long trip. Use a high-quality digital pressure gauge rather than the “pencil” style gauges, which can become inaccurate over time. Keeping a small portable 12V inflator in your cargo area is a lifesaver for those chilly mornings when you need a quick top-off.
The Impact of Altitude and Off-Roading
If you take your Explorer into the mountains or onto light trails, altitude also plays a role. As you climb higher, the atmospheric pressure outside the tire decreases, which effectively increases the pressure inside the tire relative to the outside. While usually negligible for highway driving, it is something to keep in mind if you are crossing high passes.
For those who enjoy “soft-roading” or driving on sandy beaches, you might be tempted to “air down” for better traction. While lowering your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure to 20-25 PSI can help on soft surfaces, you must air back up immediately before returning to pavement. Driving at highway speeds with low pressure causes excessive heat buildup and can lead to a catastrophic tire failure.
How to Reset the TPMS Light on a 2013 Ford Explorer
So, you have filled your tires to the correct 35 PSI, but that annoying light is still staring at you. The 2013 Ford Explorer uses a direct TPMS system, meaning there are actual sensors inside each wheel. Sometimes the system needs a little nudge to recognize that the levels are back to normal.
Usually, simply driving the vehicle above 20 MPH for about 10 to 15 minutes will allow the sensors to update the Body Control Module (BCM). The light should turn off on its own. However, if you have rotated your tires or replaced a sensor, you might need to perform a manual “relearn” procedure.
The Hazard Light Reset Method
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off).
- Push the hazard light button 6 times within 10 seconds.
- The horn should honk, indicating the system is in train mode.
- Start at the driver’s side front tire and let air out (or use a TPMS tool) until the horn honks.
- Repeat clockwise: Passenger Front, Passenger Rear, then Driver Rear.
- The dash will display “Training Complete” when finished.
If the horn doesn’t honk during the process, the sensor in that specific wheel might be dead or damaged. Most TPMS sensors have a battery life of 7 to 10 years. Given the age of a 2013 model, it is very common for these batteries to fail, requiring a full sensor replacement.
Troubleshooting Common Tire Pressure Problems
If your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure light flashes for 60 to 90 seconds when you start the car and then stays solid, this indicates a system fault rather than just low pressure. This usually means the computer has lost communication with one or more sensors.
A common culprit for system faults is electromagnetic interference from aftermarket electronics, such as cheap USB chargers or dash cams. If the light only comes on when you plug in a specific device, that is likely your problem. If not, a professional scan tool will be needed to identify which specific sensor has failed.
Another issue is the corrosion of the valve stem. The 2013 Explorer uses metal-sleeved sensors that can become brittle over time, especially in “salt belt” states. If you notice a slow leak that you can’t find in the tread, spray some soapy water around the base of the valve stem. If it bubbles, the seal or the sensor body itself is leaking.
The Spare Tire Factor
Does the 2013 Ford Explorer have a sensor in the spare tire? In most cases, no. The full-size or “donut” spare does not typically have a TPMS sensor that communicates with the dash. However, you should still check the spare’s pressure every six months. There is nothing worse than getting a flat only to find your spare is at 10 PSI.
The Benefits of Proper Inflation: MPG and Handling
Properly maintaining your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure isn’t just about safety; it’s about your wallet. The Department of Energy estimates that for every 1 PSI drop in all four tires, your fuel economy lowers by about 0.2%. While that sounds small, driving on tires that are 10 PSI low can cost you a significant amount at the pump over a year.
Furthermore, under-inflated tires have a larger “footprint,” which creates more rolling resistance. This makes your 3.5L V6 or 2.0L EcoBoost engine work harder than it needs to. It also causes the tire’s sidewalls to flex excessively, leading to internal heat damage that can cause the tire to delaminate or blow out.
Over-inflation is equally dangerous. If you pump your tires up to 45 or 50 PSI to “save gas,” you are actually reducing the amount of rubber in contact with the road. This leads to a harsh ride, increased wear on your suspension components like struts and bushings, and significantly longer braking distances in the rain.
Essential Tools for DIY Tire Maintenance
To stay on top of your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure, you don’t need a professional garage, but a few key tools will make the job much easier. I always recommend investing in a dedicated kit for your vehicle.
- Digital Tire Pressure Gauge: Look for one with a backlit screen and a 0.1 PSI resolution.
- Portable 12V Air Compressor: These plug into your cigarette lighter and can save you from waiting in line at a gas station.
- Valve Core Tool: Occasionally, a slow leak is just a loose valve core that needs a quarter-turn to tighten.
- Tread Depth Gauge: Since you are already checking pressure, check your tread. Anything below 4/32″ is getting dangerous for wet weather.
If you are an off-road enthusiast, you might also want a tire deflator tool. These allow you to quickly and accurately drop your pressure to a specific preset level for trail riding, then you can use your portable compressor to bring them back up to 35 PSI for the drive home.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford explorer tire pressure
What is the recommended tire pressure for a 2013 Ford Explorer with 20-inch wheels?
The recommended pressure for the 20-inch wheels found on the Limited and Sport trims is 35 PSI. Even though the wheel is larger, the air volume and load requirements remain consistent with the 18-inch variants for this specific vehicle weight.
Can I use nitrogen instead of regular air?
Nitrogen is used because its larger molecules leak through rubber more slowly than oxygen, and it contains less moisture. While it can help maintain a more stable pressure across temperature swings, regular air is perfectly fine as long as you check your tires monthly.
Why does my tire pressure light stay on after I filled the tires?
This is usually because the system needs to be driven to reset. Drive for 10-15 minutes at speeds above 20 MPH. If it remains on, you may have a faulty TPMS sensor or a puncture that is causing the pressure to drop again immediately.
Is 40 PSI too high for a 2013 Ford Explorer?
Yes, 40 PSI is generally too high for daily driving. It will result in a “bumpy” ride and cause the center of the tire tread to wear out faster than the edges. Stick to the 35 PSI recommendation for the best balance of comfort and longevity.
Conclusion: Stay Safe and Stay Balanced
Taking five minutes a month to check your 2013 ford explorer tire pressure is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your vehicle. It prevents uneven tire wear, keeps your fuel costs down, and ensures that your SUV handles exactly how it was designed to in an emergency situation.
Remember that your tires are the only part of your vehicle actually touching the road. Treat them well, keep them at 35 PSI, and pay attention to the warnings your TPMS system gives you. If you encounter a stubborn light that won’t go off despite proper inflation, don’t hesitate to visit a local tire shop to have the sensors scanned.
Keeping your Explorer in top shape starts from the ground up. Stay proactive with your maintenance, keep your eyes on the road, and enjoy the many miles ahead in your Ford. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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