Hi, got a 08 F150 XLT, and the TPMS light started flashing while driving, then it turned on steady. Remains on steady each time I drive, I checked all four tire pressures and they are good. Is TPMS fault data available through the OBD scan port ? I'd like to attempt a self diagnostic before taking it in, thanks in advance.

 

A capable scan tool or comparable is needed to access the TPMS system to see what it's complaining about.

A Windows computer with Forscan (w/free extended license) and a recommended OBDII adapter will do the job.

 

If you check the tires, and the pressure is correct, your tires are fine. First, try to "relearn" your TPMS sensors. That might fix the problem. You have an '08. You may need new TPMS sensors. Most likely, the type that is banded onto the wheel. The sensors have a battery. The batteries don't last forever.

 

My '07 still has it's OEM sensors, I will not be shocked if / when they stop transmitting. When they stop, it'll be like no sensor, and if driven, the light will light up.

 

On the 11th generation trucks, probably not. That was the first generation of TPMS technology. On later model Fords, you can read the data for each wheel.

 

I can't answer your question about whether or not it shows up on a scan tool, but

• If it is not a big deal to you, put some tape over the light and check pressures regularly. (Should do anyway)
• or
• Order some replacements (I got mine off of ebay) and either do above until it is time for new tires or spend about 10-15 per wheel to have them installed. ( I went to a local tire shop and paid)

I think once installed they will need to be linked to your truck. My local dealer did it for no charge when I did mine.
On my 08 they were the band type.

 

The truck's TPMS can be relearned. I doubt if it would help, if your sensors are bad. But when you install new sensors, you will need to set the TPMS to learn the new sensors.






You may be able to use the less expensive Ford TPMS trigger tool, as opposed to buying a more expensive and complicated tool. I don't know. The older sensors may be on the same frequency, or not.








You may be able to take a tire off, and remount it yourself. I don't have such tools at my house. I will be going to a tire shop. Maybe Costco. There are two different parts. One part is the band & mounting base. This may, or may not, be reusable. Chances are good that the new sensor may be installed on the old band & mount. The other part is the sensor itself.

These are older trucks. The older model sensor may, or may not, be on the same frequency as modern sensors. I don't know. What I do know, is that sometimes, the people in tire shops don't know either. The TPMS system on these trucks is technology from over 20 years ago. If the tire shop guy is younger than your truck, he probably won't know. If they try to talk you into installing the modern valve stem TPMS which they have in stock, instead of ordering the correct band style TPMS; ask him what will happen if the new sensors don't work. Will they replace it with the correct sensor for free? Are they going to charge you more to take the valve stem sensor off, then charge you a third installation fee for installing the correct sensors?

Ask the shop if they have the older style band mount sensors, what the pricing is, and if they are willing to install the part if you buy it from another source.

 

A similar looking aftermarket product is described as transmitting at 315 Mhz.

 

The parts list for my truck on Rock Auto shows that compatible aftermarket TPMS units are at 315 Mhz.

 

Hmmm...I wonder if hes got it fixed by now, being 2yrs later