2017 Ford Explorer TPMS Sensor – Essential Guide To Maintenance
The tire pressure monitoring system in your SUV is a critical safety feature that alerts you to dangerous drops in air pressure. This guide explains how to troubleshoot, replace, and program a 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor to ensure your vehicle remains safe and efficient on the road.
You are driving down the highway when a bright yellow horseshoe icon illuminates your dashboard. It is a common sight for many SUV owners, and usually, it means one of your tires is low on air. However, when the pressure is fine but the light stays on, the culprit is likely a faulty sensor.
Maintaining your 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor is vital for fuel economy, tire longevity, and overall handling. A malfunctioning system can leave you guessing about your tire health, which is a risk no driver should take. This article provides a deep dive into how these sensors work and how you can manage them yourself.
We will explore the symptoms of failure, the specific tools you need for a DIY fix, and the step-by-step “relearn” procedure. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to handle TPMS issues like a professional mechanic. Let’s get started with the basics of your Explorer’s monitoring system.
Understanding the 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor System
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in your Ford Explorer is a direct system. This means there is a physical transducer attached to the inside of each wheel, specifically integrated into the valve stem. These sensors measure the actual air pressure and temperature inside the tire in real-time.
For the 2017 model year, Ford typically utilized sensors operating at a 315MHz frequency. These sensors transmit data wirelessly to the Body Control Module (BCM). If the pressure drops below a calibrated threshold—usually around 25% below the recommended PSI—the BCM triggers the warning light on your instrument cluster.
Each 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor is powered by a small, non-replaceable lithium-ion battery. These batteries are designed to last between five and ten years, or roughly 100,000 miles. Once the battery dies, the entire sensor unit must be replaced, as you cannot simply swap out the internal power source.
Direct vs. Indirect TPMS
It is worth noting that some older vehicles used indirect TPMS, which relied on wheel speed sensors from the ABS. However, your Explorer uses the more accurate direct method. This provides specific PSI readings for each individual tire, which you can often view through the driver information display on your dashboard.
The Role of the Valve Stem
The sensor is more than just an electronic chip; it is also the physical gateway for air. Most 2017 Explorers come with snap-in rubber valve stems. These are preferred for daily drivers because they are flexible and less prone to corrosion than the older aluminum hex-nut style stems found on high-performance wheels.
Common Symptoms of a Failing TPMS Sensor
Recognizing the early warning signs of a failing sensor can save you from a headache during a long road trip. The most obvious sign is the TPMS warning light, but the behavior of that light tells a specific story about what is happening under the wheel well.
If the light flashes for 60 to 90 seconds when you start the car and then stays solid, the system has detected a malfunction. This usually indicates that the BCM has lost communication with one or more sensors. If the light comes on and stays solid immediately, it generally means at least one tire is actually low on pressure.
You might also notice the “Tire Pressure Sensor Fault” message on your digital display. This is a clear indicator that the 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor is either physically damaged or the battery has reached the end of its life cycle. In some cases, the reading for one tire may simply disappear or show dashes (–) instead of a number.
Intermittent Signal Loss
Sometimes, the light may go off and on seemingly at random. This often happens in cold weather. As the temperature drops, the internal battery voltage of the sensor also dips. If the battery is already weak, the cold might push it below the threshold needed to transmit a signal to the vehicle.
Inaccurate Pressure Readings
If you check your tires with a high-quality manual gauge and find they are at 35 PSI, but your dashboard claims they are at 28 PSI, the sensor is drifting. Over time, the internal diaphragm of the sensor can become coated in “tire slime” or moisture, leading to inaccurate data transmission.
Choosing the Right Replacement Part
When it comes time to buy a new sensor, you have two main paths: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket. For a Ford Explorer, the OEM part is usually a Motorcraft brand sensor. These are highly recommended because they are pre-programmed to work specifically with Ford’s communication protocols.
Aftermarket sensors, such as those from Schrader or VDO, are often cheaper and can be just as reliable. However, some aftermarket units are “universal” and require a specialized programming tool to set them to the 315MHz Ford frequency before they can be installed. Always verify that the sensor is 315MHz and compatible with the 2017 model year.
I always suggest replacing the valve stem kit whenever you service the TPMS. If you are swapping the sensor, use a new rubber snap-in stem to ensure a perfect seal. Reusing an old, dried-out rubber stem is a recipe for a slow air leak that will drive you crazy later on.
- Motorcraft TPMS-35: This is the common part number for the 2017 Explorer.
- Frequency: Ensure it is 315MHz, not 433MHz (which is used in some export models).
- Material: Choose rubber stems for winter climates to avoid road salt corrosion.
Tools Required for DIY Replacement
Replacing a 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor is a task that bridges the gap between simple maintenance and light tire work. If you have a tire machine, the job takes minutes. If you are working in your driveway, you will need a few specific tools to “break the bead” of the tire safely.
You will need a high-lift jack and sturdy jack stands. Never work on a vehicle supported only by a jack. You also need a lug wrench to remove the wheel. To access the sensor, you must push the tire sidewall down away from the rim, which requires a bead breaker tool or a large C-clamp in a pinch.
A valve core tool is essential for deflating the tire quickly. For the sensor itself, you may need a small T10 or T15 Torx driver if the sensor is screwed onto the stem. Finally, a TPMS activation tool (like the Ford TPMS19) is incredibly helpful for the relearn process, though there is a manual way to do it as well.
- Floor Jack and Stands: For safe vehicle lifting.
- Lug Wrench: 19mm or 21mm depending on your lug nuts.
- Bead Breaker: To separate the tire from the rim edge.
- Torque Wrench: To tighten lug nuts to 100 lb-ft.
- TPMS Reset Tool: To sync the new sensor to the BCM.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Sensor
Before you begin, ensure you are working on a flat, level surface. Safety is the priority. Loosen the lug nuts while the tire is still on the ground, then lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheel entirely and lay it flat on the ground with the outside of the rim facing up.
Remove the valve cap and use your valve core tool to completely deflate the tire. Once the air is out, you need to break the bead only in the area around the valve stem. You do not need to remove the entire tire from the rim. Use your bead breaker to push the rubber down until you can see the sensor attached to the base of the stem.
If it is a snap-in style, you may need to cut the old rubber stem from the outside and pull the sensor through. Clean the rim orifice thoroughly with a scotch-brite pad to ensure the new seal sits flush. Lubricate the new valve stem with soapy water or tire lube and pull it through the hole using a valve stem puller tool.
Once the new 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor is seated, carefully release the pressure on the tire sidewall. Re-inflate the tire until the bead “pops” back into place. Always check for leaks around the new stem using a spray bottle of soapy water. If you see bubbles, the stem is not seated correctly.
The Ford “Brake Pedal Dance” Relearn Procedure
When you install a new 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor, the computer does not automatically recognize it. You must “train” the vehicle to listen to the new ID code. While professional shops use OBDII tablets, Ford owners can use a specific sequence of actions to enter Training Mode.
Start with the ignition OFF. Press and release the brake pedal. Turn the ignition from OFF to RUN (not start) three times, ending in the RUN position. Press and release the brake pedal again. Turn the ignition to OFF. Turn the ignition from OFF to RUN three more times, ending in RUN.
If done correctly, the horn will honk once, and the message center will display “Train Left Front Tire.” At this point, you use your TPMS reset tool (the little grey remote) and hold it against the sidewall of the left front tire near the valve stem. Press the button until the horn honks. Repeat this for the Right Front, Right Rear, and Left Rear in that exact order.
If you do not have the reset tool, you can sometimes trigger the sensors by letting air out of the tire for about 10 seconds while in training mode. However, this is less reliable on 2017 models. Investing $20 in a dedicated Ford TPMS tool is highly recommended for a frustration-free experience.
Troubleshooting Common TPMS Issues
Even with new sensors, problems can persist. One common issue is radio frequency interference. If you have cheap LED light bulbs installed in your cabin or aftermarket chargers plugged into the 12V outlets, they can sometimes create “noise” that prevents the TPMS signal from reaching the BCM.
Another factor is the spare tire. Most 2017 Ford Explorers have a full-size spare or a temporary spare that does not contain a sensor. If you have swapped your spare onto the vehicle, the system will naturally trigger a “Sensor Fault” because it cannot find the missing signal from the original wheel now sitting in your trunk.
If you find that the system won’t enter training mode, check your hazard lights. On some Ford software versions, you enter training mode by turning the ignition to RUN and clicking the hazard light button six times within five seconds. If one method fails, try the other, as Ford updated the BCM logic mid-year for some 2017 builds.
Cold Weather PSI Drops
In the winter, air density changes. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires can lose about 1 PSI. This isn’t a sensor failure; it’s physics. If your light comes on every morning but goes off after 10 minutes of driving, simply add 2-3 PSI of air to account for the cold soak.
Dealing with Tire Sealants
If you have used “Fix-a-Flat” or other liquid sealants, you have likely ruined the sensor. The sticky residue clogs the pressure port of the transducer. If you must use an emergency sealant, plan on replacing that sensor as soon as you get to a tire shop.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Explorer TPMS Sensors
Can I disable the TPMS light permanently?
While some people use software like FORScan to disable the system, it is not recommended. TPMS is a federally mandated safety feature. Disabling it could lead to liability issues in an accident and makes it impossible to know if you have a slow leak while driving at high speeds.
How long do the batteries in the sensors last?
Typically, a 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor battery will last 7 to 10 years. Since your vehicle is now reaching that age, it is very common for the sensors to begin failing one by one. If one fails, it is often wise to replace all four at the same time to save on labor costs.
Why does my light flash then stay solid?
A flashing light is the system’s way of saying “I have an internal error.” This is different from a solid light, which means “I have low pressure.” A flashing light almost always indicates a dead battery or a broken sensor that is no longer transmitting a signal.
Do I need to reset the TPMS after a tire rotation?
Yes. The vehicle needs to know which sensor is at which corner of the car. If you rotate your tires and don’t perform the relearn procedure, the dashboard might tell you the “Left Front” is low when it is actually the “Right Rear” tire that has the problem.
Final Thoughts for the DIY Mechanic
Managing your 2017 ford explorer tpms sensor doesn’t have to be a trip to the dealership. With a basic understanding of the 315MHz system and the right sequence of steps, you can maintain your SUV’s safety systems from your own garage. Remember to always prioritize safety when lifting your vehicle and double-check your PSI levels with a manual gauge.
By taking the time to learn the “brake pedal dance” and investing in a simple reset tool, you save money and gain a deeper connection with your vehicle. Keeping those sensors active ensures that you, your family, and your Explorer stay safe on every adventure, from the daily commute to the off-road trail. Stay safe, keep your tires aired up, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a clear dashboard!
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