B287A Code - Tire Pressure System Fault
Quick Answer
The Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system monitors the air pressure in the 4 road tires with wheel-mounted tire pressure sensors. Common causes include Low tire pressure, Tire pressure sensor is missing or damaged, Spare tire is installed as a road wheel. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- B287A indicates Tire Pressure System Fault.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Low tire pressure, Tire pressure sensor is missing or damaged, Spare tire is installed as a road wheel.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code B287A Description
Each tire pressure sensor transmission is compared against a low-pressure limit (pressure listed on vehicle certification label minus 25 percent, which will be about 6-9 psi). If it is determined that the tire pressure has fallen below this limit, the SJB sends a message to the instrument cluster, which then illuminates the low pressure warning indicator and displays the appropriate message(s) in the message center (if equipped).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B287A?
- Low tire pressure
- Tire pressure sensor is missing or damaged
- Spare tire is installed as a road wheel
- Incorrect tire pressure sensor is installed
- Tire pressure sensor installed incorrectly
How to Fix the DTC B287A?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
Code Tech Notes
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the B287A code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
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Information for Specific Makes
- B287A Ford — Tire Pressure System Fault
- B287A Lincoln — Tire Pressure System Fault
- B287A Mercury — Tire Pressure System Fault
Frequently Asked Questions about B287A Code
1. What does the OBDII code B287A mean?
The code B287A indicates a fault in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which may be caused by a malfunctioning sensor, wiring issue, or TPMS module failure.
2. What are the common symptoms of code B287A?
Common symptoms include the TPMS warning light illuminating, inaccurate tire pressure readings, or no tire pressure data displayed on the dashboard.
3. What causes the B287A code to be triggered?
Causes may include a failed TPMS sensor, dead sensor battery, damaged wiring or connectors, interference with the TPMS signal, or a faulty TPMS control module.
4. Can I drive with the B287A code active?
Yes, but it’s not recommended to ignore the code, as it may prevent you from being alerted to actual low tire pressure, which can impact safety and fuel efficiency.
5. How do I diagnose the B287A code?
Use an OBDII scanner capable of reading TPMS codes to identify the issue, inspect the sensors and wiring for damage, and verify tire pressures manually to rule out actual low pressure.
6. How do you fix the B287A code?
Repairs may include replacing a faulty TPMS sensor, repairing damaged wiring, resetting the TPMS system, or updating/reprogramming the TPMS module.
7. How much does it cost to repair the B287A code?
Repair costs vary, but replacing a TPMS sensor typically costs $50–$150 per sensor, while diagnosing and repairing wiring or module issues may be more expensive.
8. Can the B287A code clear itself?
In some cases, the code may clear itself after the issue is resolved, such as when a low tire is inflated or a faulty sensor is replaced, but it often requires manual resetting.
9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B287A code?
You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a TPMS activation tool, a tire pressure gauge, and possibly a multimeter for wiring checks.
10. How do I prevent the B287A code from recurring?
Regularly inspect tire pressures, replace TPMS sensors when their batteries are low, and avoid physical damage to sensors during tire changes or maintenance.
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