AutoCodes – Mercury – B287A Mercury

B287A Mercury 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 Mercury 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.

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Code Popularity 550

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Feb 18, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B287A Mercury Description

The Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system monitors the air pressure in the 4 road tires with wheel-mounted tire pressure sensors. The sensors transmit radio frequency signals to the Smart Junction Box (SJB) approximately every 60 seconds when the vehicle speed exceeds 20 mph (32 km/h). If vehicle is stationary for more than 30 minutes, the sensor will enter into a sleep mode and stop transmitting.
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).

OBDII Code B287A Mercury - Tire Pressure System Fault - AutoCodes.com — B287A Mercury Code - Tire Pressure System Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B287A Mercury?

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 Mercury?

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.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

When the tire pressure warning light comes on solid and message center displays LOW TIRE PRESSURE, check the air pressure of all tires and adjust to the specified cold pressure listed on vehicle certification label (found on drivers door or door pillar). Drive the vehicle at 20 mph (32 km/h) for at least 2 minutes. If the vehicle has been stationary for more than 30 minutes, a TPM sensor Activation procedure may be needed. When the tire pressure warning light flashes for 70 seconds and then remains illuminated, after bulb-check has been performed and message center displays warning messages, there is a malfunction in the TPM system.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B287A Mercury 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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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B287A Mercury Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- Common symptoms include a dashboard warning light for tire pressure, inaccurate tire pressure readings, and potential issues with the TPMS sensors.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- The code can be triggered by faulty TPMS sensors, low tire pressure, damaged wiring, or issues with the TPMS module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to read the specific fault code, checking tire pressures manually, inspecting TPMS sensors, and testing the TPMS module.

4. Is it safe to drive with the OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- It is generally safe to drive with this code, but it is important to regularly check tire pressures manually until the issue is resolved to ensure safe driving conditions.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- Repair options may include replacing faulty TPMS sensors, addressing low tire pressures, repairing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the TPMS module.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault fix the issue?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing the Tire Pressure System Fault.

7. Can weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- Extreme temperature changes or severe weather conditions can sometimes trigger false readings in the TPMS system, leading to the code being triggered.

8. How often should I check my tire pressures to prevent OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- It is recommended to check tire pressures at least once a month or before long trips to ensure they are within the manufacturer's recommended range.

9. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- DIY tips include visually inspecting the tires for damage, checking and adjusting tire pressures, and ensuring the TPMS sensors are securely in place.

10. Can a mechanic help me fix the OBDII code B287A (Mercury) for Tire Pressure System Fault?

- Yes, a qualified mechanic can diagnose and repair the issue causing the Tire Pressure System Fault, which may involve replacing components or reprogramming the TPMS system.